CVSA published this tip sheet for carriers and drivers in preparation for this year’s Roadcheck that you can print off as a handout for your drivers.

Question of the Week
My driver has gone through a roadside inspection, how long do I have to keep this documentation on file?
Answer: Copies of all roadside inspections are to be kept by the motor carrier for 12 months. The driver is required to turn in the inspection to the motor carrier within 24 hours. If they are not going to return to the terminal they are to mail in the inspection. If the inspection resulted in violations they are to be corrected or repaired and the inspection form is to be signed and certified that the repairs were completed and sent back to the state of inspection within 15 days.

Best Practice Guidelines for Roadside Inspections

• Train drivers how to complete good quality pre-trip inspection to reduce possibility of violations.
• Use Idealease Pre-Post Trip training videos
• Review your FMCSA data monthly at https://safer.fmcsa.dot.gov/CompanySnapshot.aspx and enter your DOT number or name.
• After reviewing the snapshot report click on the SMS (CSA) link in the blue box in the upper right hand corner.
• Review the vehicle and driver basics with the associated inspections and cross reference the inspections you have on file with the inspections turned in by your drivers. Question those drivers who did not submit inspection reports.
• Review the “Carrier History” tab in the Tools/Resource section on your home page to determine if the number of inspections you are having is on the rise or decline.
• Review vehicle inspections and violations with your maintenance provider to reduce violations.
• Maintain copies, along with any repair orders attached if there were violations, in tractor and trailer file.
• Use the roadside inspection information, such as date, time and locations to cross reference with the drivers hours of service documentation for falsification violations.
• Train drivers how to successfully pass a roadside inspections and how to conduct themselves.
• Keep your vehicles clean and well maintained as not to be targeted for inspection.
• Advise drivers that moving violations will generate inspections.
• Consider providing an incentive to drivers who successfully pass an inspection.