Another Reason Why you need to Join an Association

Wayne Schooling • October 17, 2023

Did you know that FMCSA audits are resulting in more negative consequences for motor carriers and private companies

In the first six (6) months of 2023, the FMCSA issued 16,000 New Entrant Out-of-Service Orders, a number that is 60% higher than the same period in 2022.
The percentage of FMCSA compliance investigations resulting in a Notice of Claim (i.e. fine) jumped from 30% in 2021 to 39% in 2022.
In a similar vein, the number of Conditional safety ratings issued by the FMCSA following compliance investigations jumped 24% between 2021 and 2022.

FACTS for 2021

$18.4 million was paid in penalties with an average settlement of $6,626 in 2021.

Audits by the Numbers

Audits by Carrier Size

Very small Carriers (1 - 6 power units) = 53.8%
Small Carriers (7 -20 power units) = 29.2%
Medium Carriers (21 – 100 power units) = 13.8%

Audit Results

Audits with Violations: 11,650 (94.5%)
Audits resulting in Enforcement: 3,688 (30%)
Total Violations: 75,452 (6.48Avg violations/audit)

Auditors are Finding More Recordkeeping Violations

At least 65% of all critical violations found during 2021 audits are related to recordkeeping including out of the top 10.

Besides log violations, this includes violations related to inspection and maintenance records, driving records, HOS supporting documents, driver qualification files and vehicle inspection reports.

2021 Sample Enforcement News

$26,200 Ontario, CA, motor carrier paid for not maintaining logs, DQ files, and maintenance records.
$13,500 Arlington Heights, IL, motor carrier paid for failure to maintain supporting documents and initial MVRs.
$11,500 Manteca, CA and Crown Point, IN, motor carrier paid for failure to maintain initial MVRs and logs

< Older Post Newer Post >

Content Disclaimer: Due to the constantly changing nature of government regulations, it is impossible to guarantee the total and absolute accuracy of the material contained herein or presented. NorthAmerican Transportation Association (NTA) cannot and does not assume any responsibility for omissions, errors, misprinting or ambiguity contained. NTA shall not be held liable in any degree for any loss, damage or injury caused by any such omission, error, misprinting or ambiguity present. It is made available with the understanding that NTA is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional service. If legal advice or other expert service is required, the services of such a professional should be sought.