In July, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) announced a few changes and updates to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs). The “Parts and Accessories Necessary for Safe Operation” and “Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance” portions of the FMCSRs were the areas that received the most amendments. The FMCSA says no new regulations have been added and the changes are minor and intended to clarify existing requirements to keep enforcement consistent for everyone.
Take note of the changes made so that your trucks and fleet are always in compliance.
- Roadside inspections will no longer count as an annual inspection.
- Carriers will need to complete an inspection every 12 months even if a roadside inspection is done within that time frame.
- Any problems or violations found during a roadside inspection must be fixed or a certificate showing the repair is unnecessary must be provided before a truck can be re-dispatched.
- If a state doesn’t require a rear license plate for a truck, the FMCSR no longer will either. The rule stating otherwise was deleted.
- A definition for “major tread groove” was added for inspectors.
- Inspections for anti-lock brake systems (ABS) and automatic brake adjuster were added to the Minimum Periodic Inspection Standards.
- The use of speed-restricted tires on tractors regulated by the FMCSR will be prohibited unless the motor carrier for the tractor specifically designates the use of them. The FMCSA noted that speed-restricted tires shouldn’t be used at speeds higher than 55 miles per hour for extended periods of time.
Keep up with repairs from your service crew and reminders for annual inspections with the Gorilla Safety app. You can set up alerts and upload documents, like the FMCSRs, so that you always have everything you need in one place. Staying in compliance doesn’t have to be a hassle, no matter how big or small your fleet may be. Gorilla Safety can help keep you on track and on the road.
