With CSA 2010 officially underway we wanted to take a moment to fill you in on what you can expect in the months ahead.
Beginning in March all authorities with one or more BASIC measurement in the ALERT status will receive the first step of intervention. This will take the form of a warning letter to the motor carrier identifying the category(s) which require improvement. The warning letter will include instructions on accessing carrier safety data and a point of contact.
If the motor carrier fails to respond to the warning letter with the written documentation as requested and required, the Department of Transportation may proceed to the second step of the intervention, which may include a full on-site audit, targeted mail audit or, in cases of severely egregious performance, suspension of a motor carrier’s authority.
Please note, since the Department of Transportation suspects that many of the warning letters will be disregarded they are prepared to proceed to the second step in the investigation. The target for measurable improvement prior to beginning the second step is 30 to 60 days.
You may also wish to note, the DOT is also strongly recommending motor carriers following the Pre-Employment Screening Process (PSP) prior to hiring drivers. While this is not required, it is something DOT officers will look at during audits. Motor Carriers who are proactive in completing the PSP may be viewed in a more favorable light.
To learn more about the new CSA 2010 regulations, please visit http://csa.fmcsa.dot.gov/.
Do you have questions regarding the new CSA 2010 regulations or are you in need of assistance in creating an action plan for the DOT? Give our office a call today at (800) 596-TRUCK (8782) and we will do our best to help. At the Navigator Truck Insurance Agency we work hard at being accessible, helpful and result oriented.
Until next month,
Jeffery A. Moss, ARM
President