So, you have received a DOT compliance letter. You are thinking that it is probably a scam or some kind of marketing trick. The fact of the matter is that it is only an attempt by your well-wishers to keep you updated on your various compliance-related deadlines and submission dates. It is important to remember when you are supposed to carry out a mock drug and alcohol testing drill at your workplace and how to keep your drivers prepared for unexpected roadside inspections among many other things. In your personal capacity, you are also required to maintain complete vehicle inspection records in addition to employee-related information as well. There are a lot of aspects that make up for DOT compliance.
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What Is DOT Compliance In Trucking And Why You Should Not Take This Letter Lightly?
You must remember that the department of transportation and the federal motor carrier safety administration have laid out a few rules and regulations. These are very critical if you want to remain functional in the transport industry across the country. It was originally created in April 1967. Ever since then, all trucking companies need to comply with these protocols and directives. These rules and regulations control practically every aspect of the transportation industry. The DOT compliance letter that you have received intends to educate you about the many ways you can stay compliant and how not being compliant can impact your business negatively.
Read The Letter Till The End To Understand What DOT Compliance Comprises
The DOT compliance letter educates you on how the department of transportation is responsible for protecting everyone in your company and also the general public from any accidents and mishaps. This department is responsible for upholding various safety and security-related processes throughout the transport industry. The following are a few requirements that you have to fulfill to remain compliant throughout the year:
- Fulfilling and maintaining driver qualification files
- Following all the general safety requirements laid down by the department of transportation and FMCSA
- Preventing the use of drugs and alcohol at your workplace
- Making sure that your employees, drivers, and the whole company meet the inspection and maintenance standards set by the department of transportation and other authorities
- There are hazardous materials-related regulations as well that you will have to comply with if you transport any such cargo for compensation
Should You Adhere To DOT Compliance Requirements?
The DOT compliance letter you have received also tells you whether you should adhere to the DOT compliance requirements or not. The law focuses especially on cars and automobiles that fulfill one or more of the following requirements:
- If you are involved in the transportation of hazardous materials as defined by the department of transportation
- If the gross weight of your vehicle is 10,000 LBS or more
- If you transport 8 passengers or more which includes the driver for compensation
- If you transport more than 15 passengers including the driver
Remember that if any of the above-given points applies to you or your motor carrier company, you will have to adhere to the compliance regulations completely to remain functional throughout the year.
What Is DOT Compliance Failure?
DOT compliance failure means a situation where you are not able to maintain compliance with the rules and regulations laid down by the authorities. Some of the serious consequences of this failure include:
- Injury or death of an employee or a civilian as a result of non-compliance
- Your license can get revoked for an indefinite period of time if you are found to be violating any of these rules
- Financial penalties and fines are also very common and they could ruin your company’s reputation
Conclusion
It is always advised to connect with your third-party administrator to understand just how DOT compliance works. If you do not have the time or resources to manage your compliance on your own, your DOT compliance facilitator is here to do the needful. Stay compliant, stay operational.
