AAM BLOG
The commercial trucking industry is heavily regulated to minimize risks on the road. These regulations are enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), and failing to adhere to them can lead to severe penalties including hefty fines and loss of licensure. Here’s a breakdown of the most frequent FMCSA infractions committed by truck drivers:
- Speeding
Due to the pay-per-load nature of the industry, there’s a significant temptation for truck drivers to exceed speed limits to deliver cargo faster. This can result in varying degrees of speeding violations which directly impact a driver’s Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) score. - Hours of Service Violations
The FMCSA sets strict limits on how long drivers can operate without breaks to prevent fatigue. Despite these regulations, violations are common, jeopardizing the safety of all road users. - Ignoring Traffic Control Devices
Some truck drivers exploit their vehicle’s size, bypassing traffic signals like red lights or stop signs. Such actions not only endanger public safety but also lead to serious infractions. - Overloading and Improper Loading
Exceeding weight limits or improperly securing cargo can lead to accidents involving cargo spillage or vehicle tipping. The FMCSA has clear guidelines on vehicle load based on the truck’s gross weight and axle number. - Drug and Alcohol Use
The monotonous long hauls can drive some truckers toward substance use as a way to stay alert. However, this severely impairs their ability to operate a vehicle safely. - Lack of Proper Licensing
Operating a commercial vehicle legally requires a CDL, and specific cargos require additional endorsements. Violations include driving without a CDL, with an expired or improper CDL, or with suspended credentials. - Mobile Phone Usage While Driving
While regulations vary across states for passenger vehicles, commercial drivers are universally prohibited from using mobile phones while driving, with many still flouting these rules. - Skipping Pre-Trip Inspections
FMCSA requires thorough vehicle inspections before trips. Accidents caused by mechanical failures are often traced back to neglected pre-trip checks. - Record-Keeping Failures
Drivers must accurately log their driving hours, breaks, and other details. Violations such as falsifying or failing to maintain these records can attract severe penalties. - Following Too Closely
Tailgating is risky for any vehicle, but it’s particularly dangerous for large trucks due to their longer stopping distances, making accidents more likely when they occur.
Understanding these common violations can help in identifying potential safety concerns in trucking operations. If you’re involved in an accident with a commercial truck, it’s crucial to investigate whether any of these violations contributed to the incident.