The CVSA’s Brake Safety Week is part of CVSA’s Operation Airbrake Program in partnership with FMCSA and the Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators. The goal of Brake Safety Week is to reduce the number of crashes caused or made more severe by faulty brake systems on commercial motor vehicles by conducting roadside inspections and identifying and removing unsafe commercial motor vehicles from our roadways. In addition to inspections and enforcement, outreach and awareness efforts by law enforcement agencies to educate drivers, motor carriers, mechanics, owner-operators, and others on the importance of proper brake maintenance, operation and performance are integral to the success of this safety initiative.

What are the Dates and Focus of the Brake Safety Week?

The dates for the Brake Safety Week for 2024 are August 25-31.  Inspectors will be paying close attention to brake lining/pad violations.  While checking these brake system components is always part of the North American Standard Inspection Program, CVSA is highlighting brake linings/pads as a reminder of their importance to vehicle mechanical fitness and safety.  Brake lining and pad issues may result in vehicle violations and could affect a motor carrier’s safety rating.

Brake-related violations comprise the largest percentage of all out-of-service vehicle violations cited during roadside inspections. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s 2023 vehicle violation data, six out of the top 20 vehicle violations were brake related. Last year’s CVSA International Roadcheck results showed that brake-system violations was the top vehicle violation, comprising 25.2% of all vehicle out-of-service violations during that three-day roadside inspections campaign.

Some examples of brake-related out-of-service violations that automatically place the vehicle out of service include broken brake drums, loose air tanks, corroded holes in a spring brake housing, inoperative tractor protection valves, etc.

Why is Brake Maintenance so Important?

Brake maintenance should be performed regularly — typically every time you go in for an oil change.  During brake maintenance, brake parts should be replaced as needed. Your slack adjusters should be greased to ensure they don’t seize up and lead to brake failure. Your air compressor pressure gauge should be checked to ensure it reads above 60 PSI when the vehicle is off and between 100 and 125 PSI when it’s running. Your hoses and linings should also be in good condition, with no cracks or signs of leaks. They should all be at least one-fourth of an inch thick. The following link provides a flyer with 10 brake lining and pad tips – https://www.cvsa.org/wp-content/uploads/2024-BSW-Flyer-English.pdf

What Were the Results from the 2023 Brake Safety Week?

Commercial motor vehicle inspectors in Canada, Mexico and the U.S. conducted 18,875 inspections of commercial motor vehicles during the 2023 Brake Safety Week. Of the total number of the commercial motor vehicles inspected, 12.6% were placed out of service for brake-related violations. A total of 295 (12.4%) had steering axle brake violations, 1,127 (47.5%) had stand-alone brake violations and 1,394 (58.7%) failed the 20% defective brakes. For the full results from the 2023 Brake Safety Week click the following link – https://www.cvsa.org/news/2023-bsw-results/

What are Some Good Tips for Truck Drivers to Prepare for Brake Safety Week?

Do Your Homework: Your inspection will be a lot easier if you’re educated and have everything ready before you hit the road. Before Brake Safety Week, educate yourself and your drivers on FMCSA brake regulations, brake maintenance tips, and more. The CVSA website has checklists and info you can pass on to your drivers – https://www.cvsa.org/wp-content/uploads/Brake-Inspection-Check-List.pdf . Also make sure you have your drivers license, registration, and all paperwork inside your cab and ready to show the inspector.
Know What Inspectors are Looking for: Inspectors are going to be focused on your trucks’ brake-system components to find out-of-adjustment brakes and brake-system violations. Inspectors will be looking for:

• Loose or missing parts
• Air or hydraulic fluid leaks
• Worn linings, pads, drums or rotors
• Other faulty brake-system components
• Anti-lock braking system (ABS) indicator lights

Check Your Truck:  Every time you hit the road, do a pre-trip brake inspection to test for any leaks and examine your truck’s brake shoes.  Walk around your truck and look for loose hoses and leaks and listen for any air leaks.  Check for low air signals, check your air disc brake rotors for cracks, and inspect brake linings for thickness, cracks, and wear.
Make Repairs: If you find any cracks or issues during your pre-trip inspection, be sure to get them fixed.  By checking and fixing your truck before Brake Safety Week, you can prevent any surprises, avoid being placed out-of-service, and get back on the road faster.

More information on Brake Safety Week can be found on the CVSA website – https://www.cvsa.org/news/2024-bsw-dates/

Sources:

CVSA Website – https://www.cvsa.org/

“CVSA Announces Dates for Annual Brake Safety Week”, June 3, 2024, Land Line.

Ensuring accurate management of FMCSA driver qualification files (DQF) is a major component of demonstrating your operation’s compliance to strict federal standards. Maintaining these records will ensure your files remain audit-ready and your fleet is compliant.

Similar to how telematics have revolutionized fleet management, DQF management has evolved with new technologies and regulatory updates. These advancements have streamlined compliance, enhanced driver safety, and improved operational efficiency. As the industry continues to progress, staying ahead of these changes is vital. Companies that proactively adapt to emerging trends and regulatory shifts will be best positioned for success.

Understanding FMCSA Driver Qualification Files

A DQF is a comprehensive record mandated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for each commercial motor vehicle (CMV) driver. Established under 49 CFR Part 391, a DQF verifies drivers’ compliance with federal requirements so they can operate commercial vehicles safely and legally. 

Key Components of a Driver Qualification File

The key DQF components are outlined below. Maintaining these elements can help ensure compliance with FMCSA regulations and support the safe and legal operation of your commercial vehicle fleet.

Medical Certificates 

A Medical Examiner’s Certificate, required under 49 CFR 391.41, verifies the driver’s physical fitness to operate a CMV. They’re expected to update it every two years, unless otherwise specified by the examiner. Conditions such as vision or hearing impairments, diabetes, and cardiovascular issues must be assessed so you can make sure the driver meets the health and safety standards required to perform their duties. 

For commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders, you can obtain the CDLIS motor vehicle record (MVR) to verify the driver’s medical status. Drivers with physical impairments affecting CMV operation may need a Skill Performance Evaluation (SPE) certificate to prove the driver can safely operate CMVs despite their impairments. 

Driving Records

Per 49 CFR 391.23(a)(1), every year, motor carriers must request and retain an MVR from every state for three years. Continuous assessment of the driver’s compliance with safe driving standards is the best way to keep the roads safe and your business’s reputation squeaky clean.

Carrier’s Annual Review of Record 

An annual review of each driver’s MVR is mandated under 49 CFR 391.25(c)(2) to show they still meet the minimum safe driving requirements and are free of disqualifying offenses. Elements to review and record include any new violations, accidents, or suspensions.  

Employment History 

Required under 49 CFR 391.21, the driver’s application for employment captures detailed information about their background, qualifications, and work history relevant to operating CMVs. It should cover the past three years for non-CDL drivers, and the last ten years for CDL drivers.

Contacting previous employers is necessary to gather information on the driver’s accident history and any violations of alcohol and controlled substances regulations. Thorough documentation of these inquiries can protect you against litigation in case of a legal claim.

Best Practices for Maintaining Driver Qualification Files

Achieving consistent compliance can be challenging, but fleet managers can take proactive steps to ensure DQFs remain audit-ready. By following best practices and staying organized, the process can be streamlined and maintain high standards.

Regular Audits and Updates

Motor carriers should conduct quarterly audits to thoroughly review each DQF, including medical certificates, driving records, and employment histories. Detailed documentation of audit findings and corrective actions help you maintain regulatory compliance and uphold exacting safety standards within the fleet. Fleetworthy Solutions™ can assist with compliance consulting and audit support services.

Digital Management Systems

Digital management systems significantly streamline DQF maintenance and provide centralized and automated solutions to help you keep documents consistently up-to-date. For example, with a DMS, you get automated alerts. They inform fleet managers of expiring documents and upcoming renewals, helping you avoid lapses in compliance and reducing the risk of penalties.

Employee Training and Awareness

An informed team is better equipped to manage and update records correctly. Training should cover critical areas such as driver qualification requirements, hours-of-service (HOS) regulations, and vehicle maintenance standards. Utilizing resources like the FMCSA’s Safety Planner can help structure these sessions effectively.

Consequences of Noncompliance

The consequences of neglecting to properly manage DQFs can include legal, financial, and operational repercussions. These penalties can include the following.

Legal and Financial Penalties

Noncompliance with FMCSA regulations can lead to severe financial penalties and legal actions. While specific amounts vary, the overall impact is substantial. For example, companies can face fines up to $10,000 for not maintaining complete and accurate records.

If an accident occurs involving a driver with a noncompliant DQF, the legal ramifications can be significant. Lawsuits from injured parties can target your company and allege negligence in driver qualification. If you’re implicated in a lawsuit like this, well-maintained DQFs can serve as strong evidence in your defense.

Impact on Safety and Operations

Noncompliance poses significant safety risks and operational disruptions that have a knock-on effect on your fleet’s profitability and reputation.

Increased Risk of Accidents 

Incomplete or outdated driver qualification files mean that unqualified or medically unfit drivers may be operating CMVs, leading to a higher risk of accidents. This endangers lives and increases the likelihood of higher insurance premiums, reputational damage, and potential lawsuits.

Noncompliance with Hours of Service (HOS) Regulations

Noncompliance with HOS regulations, such as failing to accurately log driving hours, can lead to driver fatigue – one of the primary causes of CMV accidents. Regularly reviewing ELDs and paper RODs helps prevent fatigue-related incidents and enhances overall road safety.

High CSA Score

Noncompliance with FMCSA regulations can severely damage a company’s Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) score. High CSA scores result from various violations, including failing to maintain accurate DQFs.

A high CSA score triggers increased scrutiny from the FMCSA, leading to more frequent inspections and audits, which disrupt operations and result in escalating fines and penalties. Additionally, companies with high CSA scores may face higher insurance premiums, as insurers view them as higher risk, directly impacting the bottom line.

Out-of-Service Orders

Noncompliance can lead to out-of-service (OOS) orders, grinding your fleet’s operations to a halt until all issues are rectified. Beyond operational chaos, downtime can tarnish your reputation and make it difficult to attract and retain business. Financially, OOS orders cause lost revenue, costs to address compliance issues, and potential penalties from clients due to interrupted service.

Protect Your Fleet

Conduct regular audits, leverage digital management systems, and invest in comprehensive training programs so your DQFs remain accurate and up-to-date. At Fleetworthy, we understand the time and effort this takes, and have the tools and expertise necessary to take the stress of compliance off your hands.

Learn how Fleetworthy’s fleet management solutions can bolster your fleet’s compliance firsthand by requesting a demo.

What is Operation Safe Driver and its Purpose?

The CVSA’s Operation Safe Driver program was created in 2007 to help reduce the number of crashes, deaths, and injuries involving large trucks, buses, and passenger vehicles due to unsafe driving behaviors. This program is sponsored by the CVSA, in partnership with FMCSA and with support from industry and transportation safety organizations. The initiative aims to help improve the behavior of all drivers operating in an unsafe manner, either in or around commercial motor vehicles, through educational and traffic enforcement strategies to address individuals exhibiting high-risk driving behaviors.

What are the 2024 Dates and Emphasis of the Operation Safe Driver Week?

The dates for the Operation Safe Driver Week for 2024 are July 7-13. This year’s event will focus on reckless, careless or dangerous driving. Any person who drives a vehicle in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property is guilty of reckless driving. Careless/dangerous driving is defined as operating a vehicle without due care and attention or reasonable consideration for other motorists or people on the road.

What Were the Results from the 2023 Operation Safe Driver Week?

Speeding accounts for nearly one-third of all fatalities on roadways. According to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, speeding-related fatalities increased 8% from 2020 to 2021, with 12,330 people killed in 2021 in speeding-related crashes, representing 29% of all traffic fatalities in 2021. Speeding, which was the focus of last year’s Operation Safe Driver Week, was the top driver-behavior violation for both types of drivers. Officers pulled over more than 11,448 commercial motor vehicles and passenger vehicles during last year’s event and issued 26,164 warnings and citations. Commercial motor vehicle drivers received 1,575 warnings and 715 tickets/citations, and passenger vehicle drivers received 625 warnings and 1,293 citations/tickets for speed-related infractions.

For the full results from the 2023 Operation Safe Driver Week click on the following link – https://www.cvsa.org/news/2023-osd-week-results/

Is Operation Safe Driver 2024 Strictly About Traffic Enforcement?

The Operation Safe Driver program also offers materials and resources to educate the following drivers:

Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers – The Operation Safe Driver program created materials designed to educate commercial motor vehicle drivers about the dangers and challenges they may encounter on roadways, such as distracted driving, aggressive driving, passenger vehicle drivers cutting off commercial motor vehicles, etc. There are videos, audio PSAs and printable flyers, all available for free.

Teens and New or Inexperienced Drivers  – These materials, which include videos, audio PSAs and printable flyers, were designed to teach teen and new or inexperienced drivers how to safely share the roads with large trucks and buses. This information can be used by driver’s education instructors, parent-teacher organizations, community groups, parents, or any other interested individuals or organizations, all available at no cost.

What are Some Suggestions to Prepare for Operation Safe Driver?

In order to prepare for Operation Safe Driver Week, and to reduce your drivers’ overall risk of being the target of law enforcement, now is a great time to start monitoring driver behaviors. There are many ways to achieve positive results, such as using ELD reporting, management road observations, and even check rides with drivers. 

As you prepare for Operation Safe Driver Week, be sure to discuss the following considerations with management/staff:

• Correcting risky behaviors now to avoid being targets for law enforcement, but also reduce the risk of severe crashes and large claims. 
• Safety meetings with topics focused on driver behaviors falling under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration BASICs categories.
• Extra rewards/incentives for drivers who receive a clean inspection during this timeframe.
• Daily reminders from management, dispatchers, and peer leaders referencing unsafe driving issues.
• Paperwork audits for all permits, insurance, etc., required in the trucks.

The primary focus will be on unsafe driving, but any other defects discovered during the inspection may be listed on the inspection along with the reason for being stopped. It is crucial that proper pre-trip and post-trip inspections are completed daily.

What are Some Good Tips to Remember During the 2024 Operation Safe Driver Week?

5 Quick Tips:

• No Phones While Driving
• Leave Room and Move Over
• Stop the Tailgating
• Don’t Forget the Signal
• Get Organized with All of Your Paperwork (License, Registration, Logbook, etc…)

Being aware of the most common violations (brakes, lights, tires, cargo load securement) can help truck drivers focus on crucial features and help them stay on the road. Regardless of why a driver is initially put in a roadside inspection, they should go through and understand each level of inspection and make sure all items within each level are ready for a close examination. Check out the different levels of inspections in more detail.

More Information on Operation Safe Driver can be Found on the CVSA website – https://www.cvsa.org/

Sources:

CVSA Website – https://cvsa.org/

“Operation Safe Driver Week 2024: Fostering a Culture of Safety and Responsibility on the Roads”, Dynamic Freight Haulers, April 12, 2024.

Important Information Regarding the International Roadcheck (2024 Update)

Roadside inspections are a critical part of the trucking industry. They help ensure that truck drivers are compliant with the laws and are operating safely on the road. It is important that you are ready for the possibility of a roadcheck each time you get on the road. Safety officials noted that while the roadcheck program raises the profile of truck inspections, the actual safety standards are consistent throughout the year. The program aims to reduce truck crashes by alerting truck drivers and the industry to unsafe vehicles on the road. The following information provides some great guidance regarding the 2024 International Roadcheck.

What is the purpose of the International Roadcheck?

The International Roadcheck is an annual three-day event when CVSA-certified inspectors conduct compliance, enforcement, and educational initiatives targeted at various elements of motor carrier, vehicle, and driver safety. Since its inception in 1988, roadside inspections conducted have numbered more than 1.8 million. It is a CVSA program with participation by the FMCSA, the Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators, Transport Canada, and the Ministry of Communications and Transportation of Mexico. The Roadcheck really provides a great opportunity to educate the industry and public about the importance of safe commercial vehicle operations and the roadside inspection program.

What are the dates and emphasis of the International Roadcheck?

The Roadcheck will be taking place May 14-16. Each year, the CVSA emphasizes a category of violations and this year the group will focus on two areas – tractor protection systems and alcohol and controlled substance possession. By focusing on the tractor protection systems, the International Roadcheck aims to increase awareness for drivers, motor carriers, technicians and enforcement personnel of these critically important vehicle components; specifically, the tractor protection valve, trailer supply valve and anti-bleed back valve, which may be overlooked during trip and roadside inspections. To assist drivers and motor carriers in the proactive assessment and maintenance of those components, CVSA has provided an inspection bulletin outlining the steps on how to properly check tractor protection systems.

Commercial motor vehicle drivers must adhere to their company’s policies and to not possess, use or be under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances while on duty. This year’s International Roadcheck will serve as a reminder to motor carriers to establish and strictly enforce clear policies to prevent controlled substance and alcohol possession or use in the workplace. In addition, U.S. motor carriers should regularly query the Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse to ensure their drivers are not in prohibited status. Click the following link for more information regarding the focus areas for 2024 – https://www.cvsa.org/programs/international-roadcheck/focus-area/

The most common violations on vehicles inspected during Roadcheck 2023 were for brake systems, tires, defective service brakes, cargo securement and lights. Hours of service violations put more than 2,169 drivers out of service, while another 1,392 were cited for false logs. Other violations, canceled/revoked license and no medical card rounded out the top five reasons that drivers were cited during the event last May. Vehicle out-of-service rates hovered around 19%, according to results from that event, which were released in September. Roadcheck 2023 saw a 5.8% driver out-of-service rate.

What will be inspected during the International Roadcheck?

CVSA-certified inspectors will primarily conduct the North American Standard Level 1 Inspection, a 37-step procedure that includes an examination of driver operating requirements and vehicle mechanical fitness, click the following link for details on what each step entails – https://medalliontrans.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/CVSA-Inspection-Schematics.pdf.

Inspectors may choose to conduct the Level II Walk Around/Driver/Vehicle Inspection, Level III Driver/Credential/Administrative Inspection or Level V Vehicle-Only Inspection.

What else will drivers need to provide during the inspection?

• Driver’s License (Operating Credentials)
• Medical Examiner’s Certificate and Skill Performance Evaluation Certificate (If Applicable)
• Driver’s record of duty status and vehicle inspection reports (If Applicable)
• Inspectors will also check drivers for seat belt usage, sickness, fatigue and apparent alcohol and/or drug impairment.

A CVSA decal will be applied to vehicles if no critical vehicle inspection items are found during Level 1 or 5 inspections.  No decals will be issued if a rear impact guard is required and violations are found.  Equipment will be placed out-of-service if conditions fail to meet the North American Standard out-of-service criteria.

What are some good tips to survive the International Roadcheck?

• Get Organized – If you have paperwork then keep it all organized in a binder.
• Clean Up Your Truck – Clean both the inside and out of the truck, particularly the cab and sleeper.
• Fill Out Your HOS Every Day – Track this every day and fill in your report before you quit for the day.
• Clear The Air – Manually drain the air tanks periodically, based on your truck’s air usage.
• Break to Check Your Brakes – During your next vehicle inspection, spend a little more time on the brakes. Check the brake pads as well as the drums and rotors.
• Secure Your Load – Pay attention to tiedowns and other cargo securement methods.
• Maintain Pressure – Monitoring tire pressure is quite likely the one thing drivers can do that can have the greatest impact not only on improving safety, but also in reducing operating costs.
• Keep the Tail & Running Lights Operational – Running lights and tail lights must be installed on certain parts of a truck or trailer and in certain locations to maximize visibility and to ensure secure mounting.

Some other helpful information can be found in the following Roadside Inspection Cheat Sheet – https://www.cvsa.org/wp-content/uploads/International-Roadcheck-Vehicle-Inspection-Cheatsheet.pdf

What was the focus area and results from the 2023 International Roadcheck?

The 2023 CVSA International Roadcheck took place May 16-18 and the focus was on anti-lock braking systems and cargo securement.

CVSA-certified inspectors conducted 59,429 inspections and placed 15,932 commercial motor vehicles and 5,020 commercial motor vehicle drivers out of service. Brake systems and tires were the top vehicle out-of-service violations issued. The top driver out-of-service violations were hours of service and false logs. The following are the complete results of the 2023 International Roadcheck – https://www.cvsa.org/news/2023-roadcheck-results/

The annual International Roadcheck is designed to bring attention to driver and vehicle safety requirements that must be followed every day in order to keep our roads safe.  If all drivers can create a routine of focusing on road safety and what is required of them, it will go a long way in reducing accidents and saving lives.

SOURCES:

CVSA Website – https://www.cvsa.org/news/2024-international-roadcheck/

CVSA Website – https://www.cvsa.org/news/2023-roadcheck-results/

“What is CVSA Focusing on in 2024 Roadcheck Truck Inspection Blitz?”, Heavy Duty Trucking, February 12, 2024.

Telematics have transformed fleet management over the past 50 years. Electronic logging devices help owners visualize vehicle movement and driver behavior, leading to improvements in compliance, driver safety, operational efficiency, and vehicle health.

Fleet telematics have rapidly evolved in the years since the pandemic. Emerging technologies and shifting industry dynamics are reshaping the way businesses approach vehicle and driver management. Meanwhile, lawmakers are adjusting regulations to keep pace with progress. In this ever-changing technological and regulatory landscape, companies that can anticipate and adapt to new developments will have the highest chances of success.

Prediction 1: Advanced Integration of AI and Machine Learning

As transportation companies face an increasing demand for road safety and operational efficiency, AI and machine learning are poised to revolutionize fleet management. These technologies can gather and analyze massive amounts of historic and real-time data about vehicle health, traffic patterns, driver behavior, weather, and road conditions. Critically, they can then return deeper insights than human analysis alone.

Used efficiently, AI-driven tools can reduce the cost of fleet ownership by:

• Optimizing routes to reduce delays and improve delivery speed
• Predicting maintenance schedules to prevent breakdowns and costly repairs
• Defining safety protocols to protect drivers, identify training needs, and reduce accidents

While AI and machine learning have the potential to streamline and optimize operations, integrating them successfully will require a significant investment in both technology and training.

Prediction 2: Stringent Emission Regulations and Eco-Friendly Fleet Management

Countries across the globe are doubling down on environmental sustainability, which means stricter emissions regulations are on the horizon. Heavy-duty vehicles are a natural target — they’re responsible for a disproportionate 25% of transportation-related carbon dioxide emissions in the United States. In 2023, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed strict measures to reduce emissions in this sector.

As laws change, fleet owners will shift toward a more eco-friendly system to maintain compliance. Some companies will start by adopting environmentally friendly fuels or advanced diesel engines; others will begin replacing older trucks with hybrid or electric vehicles (EVs).

Achieving the EPA’s emissions targets will be both expensive and time-consuming. The agency estimates that vehicle manufacturers will need to spend $6 billion (after tax credits) to comply; purchasers can expect to pay about $17,000 more upfront for a zero-emissions day cab tractor. In return, the industry could save $250 billion in repair and fuel costs and eliminate about 1.8 billion metric tons of emissions by 2055.

Prediction 3: Enhanced Driver Safety Protocols and Training

Lawmakers, law-enforcement professionals, and trucking companies are becoming increasingly aware of the need for greater driver safety. In fact, the American Transportation Research Institute found that driver distraction is one of the top industry concerns. To mitigate risk, fleet managers are likely to implement stricter safety protocols and comprehensive training in the coming years.

This is another area where technology will play a crucial role. Expect more companies to implement advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) that use a combination of cameras and sensors to power features, including:

• Lane-departure warnings
• Lane-keep assistance
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Traffic sign recognition
• Automatic emergency braking

Real-time feedback and corrective actions can help stop risky behavior before it causes an accident. According to a report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, ADAS could help reduce crashes by 62%. These systems also generate a great deal of useful data; AI tools will help businesses analyze the information to identify red flags and recommend targeted training for individual drivers.

While enhanced monitoring and analysis have the potential to increase safety, employers must be prepared to address privacy concerns and find room in the budget for both technology implementation and continuing education.

Prediction 4: Greater Emphasis on Data Security and Privacy

As fleet owners become more reliant on data-driven solutions, data security and privacy will become mission-critical. Telematics technologies that transmit and store data are vulnerable to data breaches and cyberattacks. Hackers could hold companies’ data hostage, expose proprietary information, or disrupt supply chains. And any time software intersects with physical systems, as it does with ADAS, there’s a risk that unauthorized parties could interfere with vehicle operation.

To avoid these threats — and protect company and client privacy — fleet owners must invest in robust security measures for individual devices and the system as a whole. It’s also critical to monitor compliance requirements; increasingly connected vehicles are almost certain to prompt new regulations and privacy laws that will impact fleet operations.

Prediction 5: Collaborative Efforts Between Government and Private Sectors

Industry players must be prepared to collaborate with governmental bodies as new technologies continue to transform fleet telematics. By educating legislators and participating actively in the process, it will be easier to achieve standardized regulations that benefit everyone on the road — without sacrificing security or innovation.

Greater collaboration could lead to exciting joint ventures, including:

• Third-party data access to boost compliance
• New technologies to increase security
• Uniform safety and operational standards

Government participation inevitably comes with bureaucratic challenges and opposing goals. However, change is coming, regardless of whether private parties participate. By getting involved, companies can benefit from fair, informed regulations and accelerated growth.

Preparing for Upcoming Changes in Fleet Telematics

Expanding technologies, new driver safety protocols, and evolving regulations are almost certain to impact the majority of fleet managers and owners in the next 3 to 5 years. During this period of change, it’s more important than ever to stay informed and adaptable — that way, you can adjust quickly to shifts in the industry.

Fleetworthy’s Intelligent Compliance Platform can help; our user-friendly system provides actionable data that boosts compliance, increases safety, and helps you make better decisions. Ready to get started? Learn more about the Intelligent Compliance Platform today.

The compliance landscape for hours of service (HOS) management grows increasingly stringent, and manual logging leaves organizations and drivers open to errors and increased risks. ELDs are relied on heavily to clock service hours accurately and consistently so you can present data in the right format in a variety of situations. ELD data is readily available when you need it for roadside inspections, audits, or even litigation.

Innovations in ELDs have also created opportunities for better managing your fleet and drivers by creating a collaboration between automated logging and human management and engagement with drivers.

As federal law now requires many motor carriers and drivers required to adopt electronic logging devices (ELDs), it’s essential for transportation companies to understand how to choose the right ELDs for their fleets. 

Understanding ELDs and Your Fleet’s Needs

ELDs are required for most commercial drivers who must keep HOS records of duty status (RODS). The federal ELD rule sets specific requirements for this technology and requires that in-use ELDs are registered with and certified by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

Some primary needs ELDs must meet include:

• Automatic capture of RODS data
• Warning and flagging of HOS violations
• Flagging potential HOS falsification or identification records
• Ability to view logs or general on-demand real-time reports

Essential Features and Functionality

Ensure that the electronic logging device you select supports key features and functions for compliance with regulations as well as meeting business needs.

1. What Key Features Does an ELD Need to Ensure Compliance with FMCSA Regulations?

ELDs must automatically record certain information at an appropriate rate, including:

• Date and time
• Geolocation (every 60 minutes when the vehicle is in motion as well as at critical points such as power up and down and when duty status changes)
• Engine hours
• Vehicle miles
• Driver, vehicle, and motor carrier identification
• Authenticated user

ELDs must have a location accuracy of around 1 mile and synchronize with the vehicle engine to capture automatic data.

2. Can the ELD System Integrate with Other Fleet Systems? 

Integrations are critical to proactive management and understanding of HOS and other fleet or driver concerns. Integration with dashboard systems or other in-vehicle technology allows drivers to better understand and meet compliance needs. Additionally, a connection to back-office systems supports route management, emergency response, and compliance coaching. 

User Experience (UX) and Ease of Use

If the ELD options you provide drivers aren’t easy to use, you’ll have a harder time driving buy-in and adoption across your organization.

3. What ELD Elements Make Daily Operations Smoother for Drivers?

Consider how easy the ELD is to use and what functions your drivers need to effectively use the ELD. For example, does the ELD support in-cab dashboard display so drivers can quickly change duty status or see, at a glance, where they stand with HOS? Or does the ELD work with mobile devices for utmost portability? Think about what would increase drivers’ commitment to using the device when comparing options. 

4. How Does the ELD Provider Handle Updates and Maintenance to Minimize Downtime?

Some ELDs can collect additional data to support more proactive maintenance of vehicles. Advanced ELDs provide end-to-end vehicle data, including information about tires or fluid levels. An integration could send this data to your fleet management software for optimal resource management practices that reduce downtime and safety issues.

Security and Data Protection

With so much data automatically captured, protecting that information should be a primary concern when selecting an ELD.

5. What Security Measures Protect Sensitive Data Collected by the ELD?

Ask about critical security measures, including encryption of data, the ability to set access controls, and if the system is monitored proactively to ensure data protection. Talk to vendors about how data is handled during exchange between the ELD unit and other programs.

6. How Does the ELD Ensure Data Accuracy and Prevent Tampering?

Find out how specific ELD systems protect the accuracy of original data and prevent drivers or anyone else from tampering with recorded data. Maintaining compliance requires raw data that has not been modified to tell a different story about factors such as HOS or duty status. 

Cost Considerations

While ELDs are required for compliance, they are available at multiple price points and pricing structures vary between vendors. It’s best to do your research first so you can enter vendor discussions with an understanding of your budget.

7. What is the Total Cost of Ownership, Including Purchase Price, Subscription Fees, and Any Additional Hardware or Services?

Consider the total cost, over time, of the ELD. That might include an upfront hardware purchase as well as ongoing subscription fees. You might also need to purchase other items to integrate the ELD correctly.

8. Are There Any Hidden Costs or Common Pitfalls in Pricing Structures That Fleet Managers Should Be Aware Of? 

Look closely at fee and pricing structures and ask specific questions to avoid unpleasant budget surprises later. Ask how pricing is managed and whether number of users, amount of data, or any other factors might play a role.

Looking to the Future: Scalability and Updates

Avoid purchasing a solution that will be obsolete in a year or two by looking to the future.

9. How Does the ELD Solution Accommodate Fleet Growth and Evolving Compliance Regulations?

Ask about the vendor’s plans to support scalability in the future with new devices and options as well as price points for larger users. Ensure the vendor works to remain updated with compliance regulations and has a plan to keep devices updated. 

Choose Your ELD Wisely

An ELD is a crucial part of fleet compliance. By asking the right questions during the research process, you can select an ELD that meets your fleet’s needs now and in the future.

As a leader in the Safety Compliance industry, Fleetworthy Solutions™ knows that the right ELD can transform the way your fleet manages compliance and meets business goals. With our dedicated team of subject matter experts supporting you on every mile, you’ll have everything you need to select a compliant ELD and focus on your most valuable resources – your drivers.

Everyone can agree that Hours of Service (HOS) management is a critical aspect of all safety sensitive operations, as fatigue has proven to be a top cause of all accidents involving a Commercial Motor Vehicle. Your truck’s Electronic Logging Device (ELD) is the best tool available to capture HOS data and measure against the HOS minimums set forth by the FMCSA in a standardized format. These devices are relied on heavily in our industry to act as the de facto hours of service clock, referred to in audits, roadside inspections, and litigations. The HOS rules are specific in writing and expected to be followed, resulting in ELD manufacturers building and implementing logic and timetables into a recordable and presentable electronic device that your organization and law enforcement can access on demand.

There are many reasons why utilizing an ELD is critical for business operations and meeting minimum regulations established by the DOT and FMCSA. But what if the ELD is not painting an actual picture of compliance or risk and instead is providing a false sense of security for your fleet? Are you depending on your ELD to manage your HOS, or are you an active participant in the process?

Successful fleet managers still need to engage with and get to know their drivers on a personal level. Is there something going on in their lives that is affecting or limiting their rest periods and creating fatigue situations? Examples may include a second job, sick family members at home, marital issues, etc. Sometimes life gets in the way and drivers should feel comfortable telling their managers they are too stressed or fatigued to drive without potential severe consequences. Managers also need to review routes for compliance and reasonableness. If the route is too long, the driver is setup to fail from the beginning.

The intentions of ELDs were to make it easier and faster to accurately track, manage, and share HOS data, as well as create a safer working environment. While there is no doubt tracking HOS data is much easier than it was with paper logs, the data still needs to be analyzed and managed by a safety professional.

According to the ‘Compliance, Safety, Accountability’ (CSA) enforcement program, HOS violations in 2022 accounted for 3 of the top 10 violations with out-of-service (OOS) orders, including #2-no logs when required and #3-false logs. The top HOS violations include exceeding the 11 or 14-hour limits, not taking 10 hours off, and false logs. These statistics reveal that management is relying too heavily on ELDs and should start manually reviewing logs daily and hold their drivers accountable for following HOS rules.

The question as to whether ELDs have improved safety as originally anticipated is hard to quantify due to factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in several HOS exceptions, as well as the HOS changes made in 2020. However, if you look at the most recent data (October of 2022) published by the FMCSA regarding crashes involving fatality or injury, it proves that ELDs are not as effective on their own. Accident rates for “accident by 100 million miles” have actually increased since the mandate went into effect in 2017. An increase of 10% by 2019 from 2016, the year before the ELD mandate was enforced, proves that relying strictly on ELD data is not an effective HOS management tool for your company or the public safety.

Considering the cost of implementing these devices, one would expect to have an ROI that can be pointed to, specific to reduction in accidents/injuries/fatalities while also minimizing the workload on a motor carrier. That has unfortunately proven to be the opposite of reality; whereas increases in accidents, risk and significant lawsuits have proliferated as indicated in the average size of verdicts since the ELD mandate went into effect. According to the American Transportation Research Institute’s (ATRI) “Impact of Nuclear Verdicts” study, fatigue and hours of service were the #2 and #3 reasons by cases with a 95% success rate in verdicts. In many of these cases, the driver’s hours of service were egregiously in violation with the motor carrier found to be responsible and/or negligent.

With all of the available data coming from your ELD, it can create the perception of negligence. How is your fleet managing the ELD output or reporting capabilities? What actions or trends are you as a motor carrier able to point to that ensures you’re not only employing safe hours of service practices but overall driver compliance and risk? How a motor carrier manages their ELD compliance, including reports, trends, and data output, is critical to going beyond the minimum requirements while not falling victim to complacent compliance. Are you equipped to manage all elements of HOS FMCSA compliance without assistance? If an audit is called tomorrow, how confident are you that you’d receive a satisfactory rating? Would your feeling of confidence increase knowing you had a partner in compliance that has the experience and tools needed to provide support?

Fleetworthy Solutions has the tools to ingest information from your ELD, identifying trends, actionable data, and able to provide recommendations to improve your overall standing within the HOS Basic. A single source of truth, providing visibility 24/7/365 into your fleet and drivers is crucial to creating a safety net around your operations. With Fleetworthy’s CPSuite, you have a driver’s HOS record at your fingertips while also providing your team with the ability to manage other safety regulated and risk minimizing requirements such as DVIR/EVIR, maintenance records and driver qualification records. Layering on Fleetworthy’s 40 years of industry experience, you’ll have an experienced team of Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) available to you for all aspects of your fleet compliance. Our team of experts are adept at interpreting the information coming from all data sources, compiling into a single dashboard that provides a C-Suite level layout while also providing the details required for effective day-to-day fleet management. Having these resources at your disposal allows you to focus on the right areas and free up time to maintain the personal interaction needed with one of your most valuable resources – your drivers. With Fleetworthy Solutions, you’ll go beyond the minimum standards of compliance. Reach out for a demo of our industry leading products and services and see for yourself what going ‘Beyond Compliant’ can do for your organization. Together, we can help minimize the number of daily accidents one driver at a time!

About Fleetworthy Solutions

Fleetworthy is the leading provider of cloud-based compliance, risk mitigation, and safety solutions for commercial fleets.  Over 1,500 commercial fleets, including some of America’s largest private fleets, for-hire carriers, and 3PLs rely on Fleetworthy to manage and identify risk, adhere to DOT, IFTA, IRP, and other regulations, and help ensure safe and compliant operations, covering a footprint of more than 210,000 drivers and over 260,000 assets.  With a 40-year-long successful track-record, deep commercial fleet experience, and a flexible delivery model that ranges from a cloud-based do-it-yourself software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform to fully outsourced, turnkey subscription-based tech-enabled managed services, Fleetworthy helps private fleets, for-hire carriers and third-party logistics companies of all sizes surpass compliance of federal, state, and local regulations and streamline processes to reduce costs, mitigate risks, and operate more safely and efficiently. 

For more information about this topic or to learn more about Fleetworthy, please visit www.fleetworthy.com or email the Fleetworthy marketing team at marketing@fleetworthy.com