When an urgent service call runs into the evening, getting the job done is only part of what an employee still faces. There is also the drive home, when often along a familiar route could feel more demanding after several unexpected hours of work. An employee who started the day well rested may need a different travel plan by the time the work is finished, and employers can strengthen drowsy driving prevention by making room for that conversation before the keys turn in the ignition.

. 听helps bring attention to a risk that could follow employees beyond the jobsite, production floor, or a customer鈥檚 door. This annual campaign encourages people to prioritize sleep and drive well-rested. For commercial businesses, prevention begins within the workday, as well as schedules that allow for rest, realistic travel expectations, and supervisors who are prepared to help when an employee is too tired to drive safely.

鈥淔atigue management is more than reminding employees to get enough sleep. It requires employers to evaluate workloads, scheduling practices, and travel expectations,鈥� said Chadwick Holliman, Senior Risk Management Consultant at 糖心传媒.

鈥淲hen employees feel comfortable reporting fatigue and supervisors have the authority to respond, organizations are in a much better position to prevent incidents before they happen.鈥�

When the Workday Follows You Home

Fatigue often builds gradually, making the effects easy to underestimate. A commercial driver may feel capable of finishing a familiar route, even as attention narrows and reactions slow.

Recent research shows that . An employee who wakes up early, works a full day, then stays late to finish an assignment may have been awake far longer than the shift itself suggests.

And this exposure reaches beyond an employee whose primary job is driving. Service technicians, construction supervisors and healthcare employees may begin a trip home after a demanding day. Workers on rotating or overnight shifts, commercial vehicle operators, and emergency responders frequently face additional scheduling challenges, as make fatigue harder to manage when recovery time is limited.

Lack of sleep is only part of the picture. Poor-quality sleep, stress, extended work hours and sleep disorders can also contribute to .

Timing matters, too. , when the body鈥檚 natural sleep-wake cycle brings a dip in alertness. Those periods could coincide with an early departure, a shift change, or the final trip between locations.

A Few Seconds and a Significant Distance

One of fatigue鈥檚 most dangerous effects is how briefly a driver might lose awareness, and how far the vehicle travels in that time. A severely sleep-deprived driver may experience a “microsleep” lasting four or five seconds. At 55 mph, that means . Coffee or energy drinks could create a temporary feeling of alertness without preventing these sometimes significant lapses.

Warning signs also appear before a driver nods off. may signal that fatigue is affecting performance. For example, lane drifting or hitting a rumble strip could each be an early warning sign. Drivers should understand that difficulty in staying alert is a reason to stop driving in a safe location and seek an alternative, and that adequate rest remains the foundation of prevention; a demanding schedule needs to leave room for it.

Always be sure to take into consideration the return trip when estimating how much time an assignment will require, and reassess the travel plan if the work happens to run late. That conversation is much easier while a driver is still on site, and a supervisor can help arrange another, safer option.

Strengthen the Plan Before Departure

Consider a technician whose repair extends well beyond the expected finish. Rather than leaving the employee to decide alone whether to make the drive home, a supervisor should check-in about fatigue and discuss a potentially safer alternative. Depending on the circumstances, that might mean arranging a rested driver or finding alternate overnight accommodations.

Those options need to be workable before someone asks for assistance. When reviewing assignments, account for the time employees will spend traveling, as well as the hours they will work. If an urgent call extends the day, the return trip deserves another look along with the schedule.

Planning for absences can also reduce the need to keep extending the same employees鈥� shifts. should be supported by sleep-health training that helps people recognize when fatigue is affecting them. During extended work, regularly scheduled rest breaks and opportunities for planned naps support that effort, while adequate sleep remains essential.

For drivers covered by , monitor compliance with applicable driving and rest requirements. Employees also need to know who to call if they become too tired to continue, and supervisors need the authority to arrange a safe response.

Connect the Signals

A helps a business examine how work schedules and employee reports relate to incidents or near misses. A recurring concern on the same route, for example, may prompt a closer look at the hours required to complete it and whether the assignment leaves enough time for recovery.

can contribute to that review by revealing possible signs of fatigue. Wearables, including instrumented wristbands and glasses, are another option to evaluate, with attention to whether the tool suits the work and how the information be might used.

Before introducing telematics, be sure to explain the purpose to employees and establish who will review subsequent alerts. The entire team needs to understand what happens when a concern appears, so information leads to sustained support while there is still time to act.

听

Speaking Up

When an employee reports being too tired to drive, the response from safety management might affect whether that person feels comfortable raising the concern again. Arranging a safe next step should be followed by a conversation about what contributed to the situation, with the employee involved in finding a solution. helps make that process useful. If a route regularly takes longer than planned, review the assignment with the people driving it, and explain what will change and how.

Drowsy Driving Prevention Week offers an opportunity to practice that response before it is needed. Walk supervisors and employees through a late assignment followed by a report of fatigue, then work out how another travel arrangement would be approved. If the discussion exposes a gap, address it while the team has time to prepare.

Carrying Safety Through

By the end of a demanding day, an employee should know that asking for help with the drive home will receive a practical response. That confidence grows when schedules allow for rest and supervisors are prepared to adjust plans as work changes. 糖心传媒鈥檚 Risk Management team works alongside agency partners and policyholders to examine exposures and explore ways to make safer travel part of every workday.

And for more information, resources from the and the help keep the conversation going beyond the annual campaign.

But 糖心传媒鈥檚 Risk Management Technology services are not just about tracking mileage. They aim to rewrite how driving behavior is understood, coached and improved. Through advanced telematics, dash-cameras and data analytics, 糖心传媒 gives commercial fleets real-time insight into how their vehicles are driven, and meaningful levers to intervene before an accident happens.

A Commitment to Safety

Excellere Construction is a certified GDOT contractor recognized for delivering high-quality infrastructure solutions 鈥� from sidewalks and streetscapes to intersection improvements, drainage and erosion control. With a proven record of successfully completing municipal projects across Metro Atlanta, as well as commercial and residential concrete work, Excellere is trusted for its expertise, reliability and commitment to safety and compliance. With crews spread across work zones and vehicles moving daily through high-traffic areas, they know first-hand how critical driver safety is 鈥� not only for their employees but also for the communities they serve. By partnering with 糖心传媒, they found a way to expand that focus from the job site to every mile in between.

Through 糖心传媒鈥檚 Usage-Based Insurance (UBI) program, telematics devices were installed in every company-owned and leased vehicle. These tools tracked key behaviors such as speeding, hard braking, sharp acceleration and cornering. Each month, 糖心传媒 and Excellere reviewed the results together 鈥� setting clear parameters, analyzing driver scores and identifying individuals considered at-risk.

鈥淲orking with 糖心传媒 on the UBI program has been an incredibly rewarding experience,鈥� said Luigi Hernandez, President of Excellere Construction. 鈥淣ot only have we seen measurable improvements, but our drivers feel more engaged and aware of their role in keeping themselves and others safe.鈥�

From Data to Action

Technology was only the beginning; Excellere turned insights into action. They invested in driver training, documented behaviors, and coached individuals whose driving scores suggested a possibly higher risk. By weaving accountability into everyday operations, they didn鈥檛 just measure driving 鈥� they helped to make it safer.

This approach reflects what safety experts are seeing nationwide. In 2022, 43,000 people were killed in U.S. motor vehicle crashes, and risky driving behaviors remain leading contributors. Recent that driver-feedback systems help to reduce unsafe events like sudden braking and sharp acceleration, which is why telematics can help make an impact. Other studies that telematics can reduce risky behaviors by up to 30%, making roads safer for both drivers and the general public.

Results That Matter

The impact for Excellere was clear. Over the past year, the company achieved more than 90% participation in the UBI program and scored above 90% on activity. These results qualified them for 糖心传媒鈥檚 UBI Performance Payout 鈥� delivering a significant return on their auto premium investment.

But the story wasn鈥檛 only about financial return. They deepened their commitment to safety by adding forward-facing cameras in every vehicle. These cameras, combined with telematics data, gave drivers real-time hazard awareness and reinforced a proactive safety culture.

鈥淓xcellere鈥檚 results are a great example of what can happen when data meets action,鈥� said Marcus Rasberry, Risk Management Manager at 糖心传媒. 鈥淏y pairing technology with coaching, they not only achieved measurable outcomes but also enhanced the safety of every driver behind the wheel. That鈥檚 what mutual success looks like.鈥�

Looking Ahead

Excellere鈥檚 journey highlights a truth that extends far beyond one fleet: technology alone doesn鈥檛 make roads safer. Real change happens when data is paired with action 鈥� training, coaching, and a genuine commitment to accountability. What made the difference here wasn鈥檛 just the telematics devices or the cameras on dashboards, but the partnership between 糖心传媒, Yates and Excellere, built on a shared belief that safety is never optional.

At 糖心传媒, this is what powerful partnership means: working side by side with businesses and equipping them with the technology, insights and support needed to protect people, improve performance and drive meaningful results. Excellere鈥檚 story is proof that when companies and their insurers work together, safer driving and stronger results go hand-in-hand.

If your business is ready to take the next step in fleet safety, explore 糖心传媒鈥檚 Risk Management Technology Solutions and see how data can drive both safety and success: amerisure.com/services/risk-management/technology

Appropriate consent to the collecting and analyzing of driving data, including behaviors such as speed, braking, acceleration, and cornering, through telematics devices, was obtained for those participating in the program. 听Data collected was addressed in compliance applicable privacy laws. Please note that savings or payouts from the UBI program can vary depending on individual driving behavior, fleet size, and other factors. Results are not guaranteed and may differ across participants.

The Real Risks of Distracted Driving

Distracted driving one of the most pressing safety issues on job sites and public roads. According to the distracted driving 3,308 deaths in 2022. Additionally, accidents caused by distracted driving can result in increased insurance costs, liability for damages, and potential fines, which can have serious financial impacts for both workers and businesses. Moving between job sites, operating large vehicles, navigating complex routes, and managing tight schedules are all unique challenges that demand peak concentration.

The identifies three key types of distraction:

Visual: Looking away from the road.

Manual: Removing your hands from the wheel or controls.

Cognitive: Letting your mind wander from the task of driving.

On the job, these distractions can come from checking a device, adjusting tools or equipment, or rushing to complete tasks under tight deadlines. Recent reports that texting or reading a message at 55 mph can take your eyes off the road for about 5 seconds鈥攖he equivalent of driving the length of a football field without sight. In those precious seconds, the chance to react to sudden hazards disappears.

The advocates for a 鈥渟afe system鈥� approach where every road user鈥檚 actions contribute to overall road safety. When commercial drivers remain vigilant, they help reduce the risks for everyone鈥攆rom the pedestrian on the sidewalk to the driver in the next lane.

Practical Strategies for Staying Focused

Achieving distraction-free driving requires practical steps and mindful habits. Here are some effective strategies to consider:

Pre-Drive Prep: Before you start your engine, adjust your seat, mirrors, climate controls, and GPS settings. A few extra minutes of preparation can eliminate the need for in-transit adjustments, allowing you to focus solely on the road.

Secure Your Phone: Keep your phone out of reach鈥攕ilenced and stored away. If you need to use it, always opt for hands-free options. The offer excellent tips for managing mobile device use while driving.

Minimize In-Cab Clutter: Organize your cab to keep essential items within easy reach and unnecessary distractions at bay. A clean and organized workspace fosters a clear, focused mind.

A Commitment to Safer Roads

Distracted Driving Awareness Month isn鈥檛 just an annual observance鈥攊t鈥檚 a call to adopt habits that make every mile safer. The role of a commercial driver comes with unique challenges and immense responsibility鈥攂ut dedication to distraction-free driving and staying fully focused behind the wheel, can safeguard your commercial teams and everyone sharing the road. Let鈥檚 lay the foundation for a season where safety is paramount.

For more insights on road safety and risk management, visit our Risk Management page鈥攜our trusted guide to staying secure and efficient on every journey.

Why This Matters

Vehicle accidents can have a ripple effect on businesses. , there were over 19,500 traffic-related fatalities in the U.S., with commercial vehicles involved in over 400,000 crashes annually. These incidents come with significant costs鈥攎edical, legal, property damage, and lost productivity鈥攖hat can be overwhelming for employers. That鈥檚 why having a streamlined, efficient claims process is so critical.

What Sets Us Apart

鈥淲e鈥檝e designed the Auto Direct Repair Program to do more than just fix vehicles鈥攚e鈥檙e focused on delivering a superior experience,鈥� says Matt Michalski, 糖心传媒鈥檚 Vice President of Claims Programs & Shared Services. 鈥淥ur policyholders can rest easy knowing their vehicles are in good hands, and we鈥檙e making sure the claims process is faster, smoother, and easier than ever.鈥�

Not only does the program include real-time updates, concierge-level service, and expedited scheduling, but it also comes with a lifetime repair guarantee. This means that repairs are guaranteed for as long as you own the vehicle. With this peace of mind, businesses and individuals alike can focus on what matters most鈥攇etting back on the road quickly and without stress.

鈥淲e鈥檙e committed to making auto claims as easy as possible,鈥� Michalski adds. The Auto Direct Repair Program isn鈥檛 just about fixing cars鈥攊t鈥檚 about providing a streamlined experience that minimizes downtime, reduces stress, and gets our customers back on the road faster.鈥�

Benefits at a Glance

• Over 2,400 pre-screened and insured shops across the U.S., where repairs are handled by experts you can trust.
• We keep you informed at every stage, so you always know where things stand.
• Expedited scheduling and a streamlined claims process mean you won鈥檛 be left waiting.
• Lifetime repair guarantee
• 糖心传媒 handles payments directly with the repair shop鈥攏o need to wait for checks to clear.

For more information on how the Auto Direct Repair Program can streamline your repair process, visit our website.

糖心传媒 is continuing to transform the auto claims process, now with photo-based estimating鈥攁 state-of-the-art solution that makes vehicle damage assessments faster, easier, and more convenient. Since launching in partnership with , an innovative insurance technology provider, 糖心传媒 claimants have already benefited from this streamlined approach. By reducing wait times and expediting claim resolution, this tool helps policyholders get back on the road quickly while minimizing operational disruptions for businesses.

Why It Matters

Vehicle accidents can take a significant toll on businesses. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), $60 billion annually in medical care, legal expenses, property damage, and lost productivity. The financial burden of each crash averages $16,500, but when an employee is injured, that cost jumps to $74,000鈥攁nd fatalities can push expenses beyond $500,000. Efficient claims processing plays a crucial role in mitigating these financial impacts.

How it Works

Through a secure platform, claimants can submit photos of their damaged vehicles, often eliminating the need for in-person inspections. This innovative approach significantly reduces processing times, with estimates generated in just 16 hours鈥攃ompared to the 10 to 11 days typically required when using an independent adjuster. Faster estimates mean repairs can begin sooner, reducing downtime and costs for businesses and policyholders alike.

Customer-Centric Solutions

鈥淭he auto physical damage team is excited to have photo-based estimating in their toolkit,鈥� said Matt Michalski, 糖心传媒鈥檚 Vice President of Claims Programs and Shared Services. 鈥淥ur claimants have good reason to love this option because estimates can be created in hours and repairs can start right away. Solutions like this reinforce our commitment to efficiency and superior customer service, while also reflecting our ongoing dedication to providing contemporary customer-centric solutions. A big thank you to the auto physical damage team for successfully bringing photo-based estimating to 糖心传媒.鈥�

Looking Ahead

Improving the auto claims experience doesn鈥檛 have to be complicated or overwhelming. By leveraging innovative technology like photo-based estimating, businesses can create a more efficient claims process that minimizes downtime and reduces financial strain. Proactively adopting solutions that accelerate claim resolution not only benefits policyholders but also strengthens operational productivity and cost savings for organizations.

For more expert insights, actionable strategies, and innovative claims management solutions, visit our website.

What is an MVR?

An MVR isn’t just a report; it’s a comprehensive profile that offers insights into an individual’s driving history, revealing details such as license status, traffic violations, and accident reports. More importantly, this data can reveal trends in unsafe driving behavior before it impacts an organization negatively. For this reason, the MVR is a critical tool that is essential for organizations that depend on drivers or require employees to operate vehicles for business purposes.

Why Prioritize MVR?

Risk Management and Safety: Ensuring that only competent and safe drivers are behind the wheel is not just a precaution鈥攊t’s a necessity. The supports that drivers with clean records significantly the risk of accidents, promoting a safer operational environment. Studies have also that the risk of motor vehicle accidents increases by up to 113% when a driver has a history of moving violations or accidents on their MVR. Choosing drivers with a safe driving history lowers an organization鈥檚 risk.

Legal Compliance and Liability: The highlights the legal ramifications of negligent entrustment, where organizations can be held if accidents occur due to employing drivers with poor records. This extends to both company-owned and personal vehicles used for business tasks.

Organizations should also consider the evolution of nuclear verdicts in the commercial auto space, which have implications in liability claims outcomes. According to the , auto accidents accounted for 22.8% of nuclear verdicts between 2010 and 2019 with a mean verdict award of $33.8 million. The cost of nuclear verdict outcomes continues to rise. Additionally, the outlines the of maintaining accurate and updated MVRs to avoid compliance pitfalls and safety hazards for DOT regulated fleets.

Hiring Decisions: Integrating MVR checks into the hiring process is not just about compliance; it’s about smart hiring practices. Hiring employees who exhibit the ideals of an organization鈥檚 safety culture promotes a mutual safe workplace environment and is a factor in employee retention. According to , screening out unsafe drivers is important since they are more likely to cause problems for an organization in the future.

Optimal Timing for MVR Checks

Pre-Employment: MVR checks can help in making and avoiding potential hires that could pose risks. Ensure prospective employees have a clean driving slate before joining your team.

Annually: The also recommends to ensure continuous compliance and safety standards are met.

Continuous Monitoring: Stay ahead of potential risks with on driving records, enhancing your response time to any new violations. A robust MVR monitoring program can decrease motor vehicle crashes by up to .

Strategic Implementation of MVR Checks

Crafting Clear MVR Policies: Develop a robust MVR policy that violations and outlines criteria for evaluation, ensuring it aligns with state-specific regulations provided by the .

Actionable Grading System: Implement a to classify driving records and determine suitable corrective actions, from training to potential termination, ensuring these measures are clear and enforceable. Utilize reputable services for conducting these checks, ensuring comprehensive and accurate reporting.

Integration with Employment Protocols: Seamlessly integrate the outcomes of MVR checks into both hiring processes and ongoing employment evaluations, maintaining a high standard of safety and compliance.

Looking Ahead

For detailed strategies on implementing effective risk management practices in your organization or to learn more about MVR best practices and vendor solutions, visit our Risk Management page, or contact an Agent.

The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.  We recommend consulting with an employment attorney to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and to receive legal advice tailored to your specific circumstances.

Now situated in Olive Branch, Mississippi, with a workforce exceeding 200 and a fleet of over 70 vehicles on the road every day, Michael Hatcher & Associates is deeply invested in maintaining the highest standards of safety and operational efficiency.

糖心传媒鈥檚 partnership and safety journey with agency, , started with Michael Hatcher & Associates in 2010. Initially, the service delivery was focused on improving the overall safety culture and safety procedures for their employees. After making great strides in reducing the frequency and severity of worker鈥檚 compensation claims, the next step switched to improving key leading indicators in their fleet safety program.

In 2020, a strategic initiative was launched in collaboration with Josh Wilder, Safety Manager at Michael Hatcher & Associates. This initiative aimed to fortify driver selection procedures and leverage cutting-edge fleet technology solutions. Measures included the implementation of annual Motor Vehicle Records (MVR) reviews and the integration of advanced telematics controls.

Wilder expressed the impact of the partnership:

Working with the 糖心传媒 and Insight team has been great. By implementing both MVR & telematics, we have been able to get in front of potential driver issues. Anytime I need help, they are quick to respond and provide feedback too. Our team has bought into the process, and we are reaping the benefits.

A critical aspect of this improvement strategy was the introduction of a third-party vendor, iiX, recommended by 糖心传媒. This partnership allowed for comprehensive MVR checks on all company drivers, benefiting from preferred pricing arrangements with iiX. In 2021, Michael Hatcher & Associates fully institutionalized an annual MVR check for all company drivers, adhering to meticulously defined criteria to ensure the safest drivers were operating company vehicles. 

Building on this foundation, 糖心传媒 Risk Management teams collaborated with Michael Hatcher & Associates to enhance the utilization of existing telematics systems. This involved monitoring driver speed, aggressive driving behaviors (such as hard braking, turning, and acceleration), and seatbelt usage. The resulting data facilitated the creation of weekly driver reports by Wilder, enabling company managers to instill accountability and find opportunities to address at-risk behaviors by immediately coaching the driver.

Pat Siano, agency producer and Insight Risk Management Vice President, highlighted the longstanding commitment to safety:

Michael Hatcher & Associates has been a long-time 糖心传媒 policyholder, and their commitment to safety is second to none. They are proactive in their relationship with their 糖心传媒 Risk Management Consultant, Jeremy Biggs, whether it is including him in safety discussions or putting in place any recommendations that he makes to help them improve their safety culture.

The outcomes of these strategic enhancements are more than noteworthy. Michael Hatcher & Associates has achieved an average annual reduction of 95% in the cost of auto claims, coupled with an 87% reduction in the frequency of auto claims. This success underscores their unwavering commitment to safety, operational excellence, and continuous improvement, positioning them as a benchmark in the industry.

If you are interested in implementing an MVR program or utilizing telematics to improve your company鈥檚 overall fleet risk, please contact your 糖心传媒 Risk Management consultant. If you are interested in coverage and our risk management services, find an agency here and one of our partners will assist you.

Vehicle theft protection is of paramount importance for commercial fleets, as it can significantly impact operational continuity, employee safety, valuable company assets, and financial bottom lines. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that a motor vehicle was stolen every 32 seconds in 2022, resulting in a loss of $8 billion countrywide.

For policyholders with commercial fleets, the vulnerability of leaving vehicles parked outside heightens the risk of theft. Read on for some tips to assist in reducing the likelihood of vehicle theft and protecting valuable commercial assets.

Protecting Your Commercial Fleets

• : Encourage employees to park vehicles in well-lit, secure areas, preferably equipped with surveillance cameras. Utilize fenced lots or parking garages whenever possible to deter thieves.
• : Install GPS tracking systems in commercial fleet vehicles. These systems can help locate stolen vehicles quickly, increasing the chances of recovery.
• Key Management: Implement strict protocols for key management, ensuring that only authorized personnel have access to vehicle keys. Store keys securely and consider using key control systems.
• : Install reliable alarm systems and immobilizers in commercial fleet vehicles. These security measures can deter thieves and prevent unauthorized access.
• Employee Training: Educate employees about vehicle theft prevention measures, such as the importance of locking doors, closing windows, and never leaving the engine running while unattended.

It鈥檚 always good to look for valuable opportunities to prioritize the safety and security of your vehicles. By implementing effective prevention strategies such as key management, vehicle tracking systems, and employee training, you can significantly reduce the risk of vehicle theft. Contact our risk management team anytime for an array of customized and innovative solutions to help ensure your vehicle鈥攁nd company remains a safe and successful workplace.

Beginning January 6, 2023, commercial fleets will be impacted by changes related to several factors, including investigation processes, speed limiters, automatic emergency braking, and safety fitness procedures. It鈥檚 important for companies with Commercial Driver鈥檚 Licenses (CDL) drivers to understand these changes as the new year begins.

FMCSA Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse Checks 鈥� Effective Date: January 6, 2023

As of January 6, 2023, the FMCSA Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse will become the sole query source for employers to meet the requirement to identify prospective drivers with drug and alcohol violations. Because of this change, all employers of a regulated CDL driver must:

• Request electronic consent from the driver for a full query, including pre-employment queries. Conduct a full query of the as part of each pre-employment driver investigation process.
• Conduct limited queries at least annually for every driver employed.
• Report drug and alcohol program violations. Record the negative return-to-duty (RTD) test results and the date of successful completion of a follow-up testing plan for any driver they employ with unresolved drug and alcohol program violations.

If non-compliance surfaces in a compliance review or safety audit, a carrier faces a fine of up to $2,500 per offense.

Notable Regulations

Additional regulatory activities to watch out for as outlined in the Agency鈥檚 most recent include:

1. Integration of Automated Driving Systems (ADS) 鈥� Projected Date: January 18, 2023

This notice seeks to ensure the safe introduction of ADS-equipped commercial motor vehicles (CMV) to the road. CMV operations such as inspection, repair, and maintenance will be affected to 鈥減rioritize safety and security, promote innovation, and foster a consistent regulatory approach to ADS-equipped CMVs.鈥�

2. Broker and Freight Forwarder Financial Responsibility 鈥� Projected Date: January 25, 2023

When is a dispatch service considered a ? What role do bona fide agents play in the transportation of freight? With this notice, the FMCSA aims to bring an end to dispatch services that claim to qualify as bona fide agents of motor carriers who may be engaged in unauthorized brokerage while clarifying the level of financial penalties for unauthorized brokerages.

3. Automatic Emergency Braking 鈥� Projected Date: January 30, 2023

This notice proposes to standardize equipment performance for on heavy trucks. It will include motor carrier maintenance requirements for AEB systems, as well as accompanying standards and test procedures for measuring their performance.

4. Safety Fitness Procedures 鈥� Projected Date: January 30, 2023

This notice will seek information on how the FMCSA 鈥渕ight use data and resources more effectively to identify unfit motor carriers and to remove them from the nation’s roadways.鈥� They hope to accomplish this by seeking public comment about the use of available safety and inspection data in , and these regulations would replace the current federal rating system of Satisfactory, Conditional and Unsatisfactory.

5. Heavy Truck Speed Limiters 鈥� Projected Date: June 30, 2023

This notice will address whether additional regulatory actions should be taken on vehicle manufacturer requirements, specifically that any commercial vehicle with a gross vehicle weight of 26,001 pounds or more be equipped with an electronic engine control unit (ECU) that will be capable of governing speed to a limit that will be 鈥渄etermined by the rulemaking and to maintain that ECU setting for the service life of the vehicle.鈥�

鈥淭hese upcoming FMSCA changes will help companies with commercial motor vehicles improve driver behaviors, streamline administration, and control loss severity, ultimately enhancing overall safety on America鈥檚 roads,鈥� said 糖心传媒 Risk Management Expertise Specialist Susan Thiel.

Looking Ahead

It鈥檚 vital that companies with commercial motor vehicles regularly check to stay current with changes and remain in compliance. By staying abreast of regulatory updates, organizing training for drivers, and implementing regulatory guidelines, commercial fleets can optimize their operations and stay on top of industry changes.

Learn More

Contact your 糖心传媒 Risk Management Consultant for more information on cost-effective record bundling requests for Motor Vehicle Records (MVRs) and Clearinghouse reports.

Drivers can meet this challenge by having the right knowledge about winter driving. Here are five preventative safety measures that commercial fleet drivers can follow to keep themselves and others safe this winter:

• Monitor Road Conditions: Prepare in advance for winter weather driving. Be sure to monitor road and weather conditions prior to driving by checking a weather app, local news channels, or .
• Lower Your Speed: The slower you drive, the more time you have to react. Stay slightly below the speed limit and increase your following distance to 8-10 seconds when confronted with slippery roads. Watch for the presence of .
• Brake Effectively: When you’re driving in snow and ice, always brake as gently as possible to avoid skidding. If the truck is not equipped with an ABS braking system, lightly pumping the brakes helps prevent losing control.
• Check Your Vehicle: Double check windshield wipers, defrosters, cooling systems, and washer reservoir. Verify that headlights, brake lights, turn signals and emergency flashers are all working properly, and be sure to refuel gas at the halfway gauge point.
• Maintain Weather Emergency Kit: Winter weather conditions can change quickly, so it鈥檚 vital to ahead of time. Keep an ice scraper, broom, jumper cables and a flashlight handy in case of emergency. Consider packing sand or cat litter for stuck vehicles along with tire chains, flares, extra blankets and clothes, a phone charger, and nonperishable food/water.

For more information and advice on winter weather driving, visit