Vogel Safety's Blog

For those of you who have recently applied for and received a new US DOT number, you should be preparing for a DOT Safety Audit.  The DOT, or someone representing the DOT, will be making contact with your company by phone or letter, as an attempt to schedule this audit.  The Safety Audit is a shorter version of the full DOT Compliance Review, and unlike the Compliance Review, it has a Pass or Fail score.  The DOT considers it to be an "Educational Audit", and a tool for them to verify that your company is starting off the right direction...in compliance with the fle

DOT Compliance Information

Important Websites for Safety & DOT Compliance

We know that there are many ways to obtain information on your company, your clients or vendors.  It is important to know what information is available, and whether or not it is correct.

The websites listed below are from the most current list, provided to us from the DOT.  We hope they become a useful tool for you.

What is the official website for the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration?    

DOT Compliance or True Fleet Safety

As you read the title of this article you may ask "What exactly do you mean, Steve - 'DOT Compliance or True Fleet Safety'?  You mean there's a difference, and I can choose between the two?"  As a matter of fact...Yes!

It's Back, and for good reason. To help ensure our fleets are conducting business safely, this year's RoadCheck is set for June 3-5. Make sure your drivers and vehicles are prepared for these official inspections. You may consider enrolling in a DOT Compliance Seminar prior to June, to make certain your company is ready for such an event. Your fleet safety program may need enhancement in order to meet compliance.

Who is required to have a Drivers' Qualification file? It is often thought that the Drivers' Qualification (DQ) file is only necessary if the driver has a commercial driver’s license (CDL). This is a misperception that has created confusion for many carriers across the nation. For interstate drivers, the need for a DQ file is based on the size and type of vehicle being driven, and/or the type of cargo being hauled. According to the FMCSR, part 390.5, the definition of commercial motor vehicle includes both CDL and Non-CDL drivers alike.

May is "National Youth Traffic Safety Month".

Everyone knows that being able to see where you are on the road, where you are going, and what is around you while driving is important to your safety.  What many people may fail to recognize as equally important is the fact that in addition to you being able to see...you must also be seen by others.  It is extremely important for others to know that we are present and what our intentions are.  This is why we have brake lights, clearance lights, back-up lights, turn signals, horns, etc.

Being in the Transportation Safety Industry for over 15 years, I still do not fully understand why some companies allow violations to safety regulations and best practices, which, in turn, allows people to die.