A roadside inspection can be a stressful experience for drivers and carriers alike, as the outcomes can significantly affect compliance and safety records. This guide explores how inspections are conducted, what triggers them, and how to prepare for a positive outcome.
How Drivers and Vehicles Are Selected for Inspections
Understanding the selection process helps carriers and drivers anticipate inspections. Key reasons include:
Traffic Violations
Drivers pulled over for traffic infractions are often inspected afterward.Visible Vehicle Violations
Officers may stop a vehicle for obvious defects, such as broken lights or damaged tires.Inspection Selection System Recommendations
- ISS uses a carrier’s Compliance, Safety, Accountability scores to recommend inspections.
- Carriers with higher BASIC scores face increased inspection likelihood, categorized as “Optional” or “Inspect.”
Post-Crash Inspections
After a serious crash, an inspection is often mandatory to assess pre-existing and crash-related violations.Random Selection
While random checks do occur, most inspections arise from the reasons above.Tips to Minimize the Risk of Inspections
Reducing the likelihood of an inspection involves strategic measures:Driver Training
- Use formal programs like J.J. Keller’s Principles of Defensive Driving to promote safe driving practices.
- Train drivers to perform thorough pre-trip, en route, and post-trip inspections.
Monitor Driver Behavior
Tools like dash cameras and telematics can ensure compliant and defensive driving.Maintain Low ISS Scores
- Avoid violations during inspections.
- Review CSA data and correct errors using the DataQs system.
- Seek professional help, such as J.J. Keller services, to manage trends in CSA scores.
The Roadside Inspection Process
Inspections follow a systematic 37-step process. The scope varies depending on the inspection level:Level I: Full Inspection
All 37 steps are used, including a comprehensive vehicle and driver check.Level II: Walkaround Inspection
Excludes under-vehicle checks, involving 34 steps.Level III: Driver-Only Inspection
Focuses on 13 steps related to the driver, plus documentation of the inspection.Key Inspection Areas
Driver Credentials
Includes verifying qualifications, CDL validity, medical records, and compliance with hours-of-service rules.Vehicle Compliance
Officers examine lights, brakes, tires, cargo securement, and periodic maintenance records.Preparation Tips for Roadside Inspections
Preparation ensures compliance and smoother inspections:Driver Qualification Systems
Use tools like J.J. Keller’s Encompass® System to track expiration dates for licenses, medical cards, and training records.License Monitoring
Regularly verify that drivers hold valid licenses using MVR monitoring services.Driver Training
Provide training on:- Presenting required documents (driver, vehicle, and carrier credentials).
- Handling ELD-related processes, such as record transfers and malfunction management.
- Locating proof of periodic inspections.
- Brake adjustments and light activation during inspections
Vehicle Maintenance
Keep vehicles up-to-date on inspections and preventive maintenance to avoid common violations.Mock Inspections
Conduct mock roadside inspections to familiarize drivers with the process.Common Violations to Avoid
Understanding frequent violations helps carriers address compliance gaps:Top Vehicle Violations
- Inoperative lamps or turn signals.
- Missing or invalid proof of periodic inspections.
- Brake adjustments or defects.
- Unsecured fire extinguishers or cargo.
Top Driver Violations
- Traffic infractions like speeding or failure to obey signs.
- Operating without a valid CDL or medical card.
- Incorrect or missing hours-of-service logs.
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