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2023's Top DOT Audits Violations Exposed: How to Keep Your company Safe,Compliant and Free of fines!!!

 

In 2023, the statistics for failed Department of Transportation (DOT) audits were alarming. Only about 6 out of every 100 companies passed their audit without any violations, meaning that a staggering 94% failed. If you want to be part of the successful 6%, having your documents in order is essential—though easier said than done.


Here, we outline the top four most common violations and how we can help you avoid them:




  1. Allowing a Driver with a Suspended or Revoked CDL to Operate


This violation has remained the top issue for several years and accounted for 36% of all acute violations in 2023. Many times, CDL suspensions or revocations happen without the employer's knowledge.

 To prevent this, it is crucial to check the following:

  • Query your new drivers in the clearinghouse before hiring them to check if they have any violation that forbidden the driver to perform driving duties.

  • Run the Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) this will check the cdl status if is suspended or revoked.


2. Failing to Implement an Alcohol and/or Drug Testing Program

This violation, along with failing to randomly test for drugs and alcohol and using drivers who have tested positive, collectively accounted for over 37% of all acute violations. These issues can lead to fines averaging more than $8,000. A compliant DOT drug and alcohol testing program must include pre-employment tests, random tests, and post-accident, reasonable suspicion, and follow-up tests. Ensuring that these tests are properly scheduled and conducted is vital for compliance and safety.

To prevent this violation, you should:


  • Enroll your company in a drug and alcohol program they should give you a enrollment certificate and the drug and alcohol policy for your company – YOU MUST RENW IT EVERY YEAR.

  • Send all your drivers for a pre employment test if your drivers do not do this test they are not enrolled in the program.

  • Your consortium must perform random testing each quarter and is your obligation to ensure all the selected drivers go to take the test.


3. Non-Compliance with Hours of Service Rules or Improper Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Use

Proper management of driver hours and correct usage of ELDs are critical. Ensuring that your drivers’ records are up-to-date and accurately maintained is necessary to avoid this common violation.

Officers will ask for the last 30 days of your log book, there is no way to cheat on this.

If you work local and do not need EDL you must maintain a manual register of the hours you work.


4. Failing to Maintain Driver Qualification Files

Driver qualification files must be maintained meticulously. This includes ensuring that all required documents are present and up-to-date, such as driver licenses, medical certificates, clearinghouse querys, DOT job inscription form. Among others.


How Trucking Services and Logistics Can Help

Our services are designed to help you stay compliant and be audit-ready:


  1. Alcohol and Drug Program: We offer comprehensive testing services including pre-employment, random, follow-up, return-to-duty, and post-accident tests.

  2. Clearinghouse: user creation for companies and drivers  - annual querys and pre employment querys

  3. MVR: Our automated system regularly checks your drivers’ records and alerts you to any changes.

  4. Driver Qualification Files: We help you maintain accurate and complete files for all your drivers.

  5. DOT Supervisor Training: Our training programs ensure that your supervisors are well-versed in DOT regulations and compliance requirements.


Being prepared for a DOT audit involves more than just having the right documents—it requires continuous vigilance and a robust compliance program. By utilizing our services, you can significantly reduce the risk of violations and ensure the safety and efficiency of your operations.


For more detailed information and assistance, please visit our website or contact us directly.

 


📞 Phone: (813) 864-6287

🤳 WhatsApp: (813) 435 69 24



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  • Clearinghouse Trucking Services and Logistic
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