02/02/2022
Understanding 2021 FMCSA Compliance Data.
As you set your goals for 2022, it is important to understand FMCSA compliance trends.
Staying compliant is the first step to avoiding unnecessary fines. Here are some key take always from last year:
• Since the pandemic, there have been more off-site audits than on-site
• 53% of FMCSA reviews were performed on small fleets (1-6 trucks). More than 80% of reviews were on carriers with less than 20 trucks.
• 94% of carriers reviewed had at least one violation.
• Average violation per carrier was six.
• Top violations centered around CDL, Drug testing, HOS, DQ Files & Inspections.
• Most reviewed months: March & April.
• Least reviewed months: October & November.
• Average fine for 2021 was $6,621. Although this was a decrease in 2020 average fines (almost $11k), the pandemic was an abnormal year with outlier figures.
• Most fines states: TX, NJ, CA, FL, GA
• Least fined states: NM, WY, DC, HI, NH
• In 2021, FMCSA increased maximum fine to $196,992. Per the Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act of 2015, federal agencies must increase fines each year to account for inflation.
• Clearinghouse mandate now going on two years. As per most government regulations, agencies tend to allow a two to three year 'digestion period' before becoming harsher with enforcements (especially as more and more State Drivers Licensing Agencies adopt Clearinghouse). Plan for increased clearinghouse violations (up to $5,833 per offense).
• As part of FMCSA strategic plan (2021-2023), the agency will be focusing less on equipment and more on human errors like speeding, distracted driving and seat belt usage. The implication for this is that DQ Files, Drug Tests, ELDT, Clearinghouse requirements and other staff trainings need to be taken more seriously.