Driving Laws for Big Trucks
The U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has established national laws and regulations for commercial trucking. Companies and drivers should be aware of these laws and regulations and any changes or additions made to them.
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Driver
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Individuals wishing to obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) must complete a driver training program that is certified by the FMCSA. Drivers must pass written and driving tests before being granted a CDL by the state in which they reside. The FMCSA also requires drivers to submit to drug and alcohol testing before obtaining a CDL. Alcohol and drug tests are also required after an accident, if a reasonable suspicion of drug or alcohol use exists, and upon return to work following a violation of alcohol conduct standards. Drivers must keep a logbook detailing hours and miles driven as well as any breaks from driving, and the information and documents for the load being transported.
Vehicle
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The FMCSA requires all tractors and trailers to pass yearly safety inspections. The company must maintain documentation of inspections and place the appropriate inspection stickers on the truck and trailer. Rigs must also display company information, including the company's name, location and Department of Transportation (DOT) identification number. Trailers must also display company information and DOT identification number.
Drivers are responsible for performing general safety inspections before operating a truck or pulling a trailer, including making sure that tires are properly inflated, lights and brakes are operational, the load is properly secured and any necessary hazard signs are properly displayed.
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Company
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Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring that drivers, trucks and trailers comply with FMCSA regulations. Companies must pay all applicable fees for licensing trucks and trailers owned and operated by the company as well as any violation fees for company-owned equipment. The company must meet the minimum insurance and security bond requirements for equipment and loads as required by the FMCSA. These amounts vary according to the truck and trailer and with the specific load being transported.
Hazmat
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The FMCSA requires that a warning placard be posted on rigs transporting hazardous materials. In addition, the company must supply the driver with a copy of the FMCSA rules regarding hazardous materials transport and instructions for procedures to take in case of an accident, delay or emergency such as a fire. Drivers must also comply with FMCSA rules on fueling the truck and supervising the load. These rules state that the load is to remain under the supervision of the driver or a qualified representative of the company and that the driver must remain with the truck during fueling.
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References
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