These ratings also determine how a company may operate. For example, an unsatisfactory rating means that the carrier may not transport certain hazardous material or more than 15 passengers. 49 C.F.R. Section 385.13 . Companies are given a satisfactory, conditional, or unsatisfactory rating based on compliance with the safety fitness standards spelled out in Section 49 C.F.R. section 385.7. Drivers also have qualifications they must satisfy in order to be hired by carrier companies.
Drivers are then to be reviewed annually by the carrier.
The use of alcohol and other controlled substances often associated with motor vehicle accidents is under strict scrutiny by the federal agency. Testing for controlled substances is mandatory as provided by section 49 C.F.R. Section 382.301 . Violations of these laws can subject a carrier to penalties and will definitely strengthen any case against a trucking company. Return to home page .