b' Marketer InformationRules & RegulationsHOW TO SURVIVE A ROADSIDE INSPECTION WRoadside inspections of driv- tificate (if applicable); alcohol and drugs; driversTips for Owners, Fleet Managers and DriversWashington, D.C. -ers and vehicle can happen any time. Federal, staterecord of duty status as required; hours of service; and local enforcement authorities are all authorizedseat belt; vehicle inspection report(s) (if appli-to stop and conduct roadside inspections. Sometimescable); brake systems; cargo securement; coupling the inspection will be limited to driver qualificationsdevices; driveline/driveshaft; exhaust systems; or a particular vehicle equipment system. More often,frames; fuel systems; lighting devices (headlamps, a more comprehensive inspection of both driver andtail lamps, stop lamps, turn signals and lamps/flags vehicle is conducted. When this happens, certifiedon projecting loads); steering mechanisms; suspen-inspectors will conduct the North American Level Isions; tires; wheels, rims and hubs; windshield Mark S. Morgan, EsqInspection; a 37-step procedure that includes an ex- wipers; electrical cables and systems in engine and PMAA Regulatoryamination of driver operating requirements and vehiclebattery compartments, seating, and federal cargo Counsel mechanical fitness. Inspectors may also opt to conducttank specification requirements. less comprehensive inspections including the LevelNorth American Standard Level III II Walk Around Driver/Vehicle Inspection, Level III Driver/Credential/Administrative Inspection, or the Driver Credential and Record InspectionLevel IV Vehicle-Only Inspection.An examination that includes those items specified If a critical vehicle violation is found during any of these inspections, an im- under the North American Standard Level III Driv-mediate out of service order will likely be issued. This means the vehicle can- er/Credential/Administrative Inspection Procedure. not be operated until the violation(s) are corrected. A driver can also be placedAs a minimum, Level III Inspections must include, out of service for driver credential-related issues or driver conditions, such aswhere required and/or applicable: examination of fatigue or impairment. Out-of-service orders and the number, type and severitythe drivers license; Medical Examiners Certificate of safety violations affect a motor carriers Compliance, Safety, Accountabilityand Skill Performance Evaluation (SPE) Certificate; (CSA) score and its Safety Fitness Determination rating. Lower fitness ratingsdrivers record of duty status; hours of service; may invite closer regulatory monitoring and an onsite inspection of your com- seat belt; vehicle inspection report(s); and carrier pany and records. It is more cost effective and makes better business sense toidentification and status. For more details on North avoid driver and vehicle violations. There is no mystery about roadside inspec- American Standard Inspections go to: https://cvsa.tions. Avoiding violations is simple and easy if you know what the inspectorsorg/inspections/inspections/all-inspection-levels/are looking for. The following North American Inspection Standards provideCDL Driver Tipsall the information drivers, fleet managers and owners need to stay in compli- for Roadside Inspectionsance with state and federal motor carrier regulations by conducting preventative maintenance, routine pre-trip inspections and accurate recordkeeping: It is important drivers are ready for the possibility of North American Standard Level I a roadside inspection every day. Whether a violationComprehensive Driver and notice or warning is issued at a roadside inspec-tion may depend simply on the drivers appearance, Vehicle Inspection manners and attitude. The following driver tips for An inspection that includes: examination of drivers license; Medical Ex- roadside inspections will help your company avoid aminers Certificate and Skill Performance Evaluation (SPE) Certificate (ifunnecessary fines and out of service orders:applicable); alcohol and drugs; drivers record of duty status, as required; hours1. Be polite - If you get pulled for a randomof service; seat belt; vehicle inspection report(s) (if applicable); brake systems; cargo securement; coupling devices; driveline/driveshaft; exhaust systems;inspection at a weigh station or for having anframes; fuel systems; lighting devices (headlamps, tail lamps, stop lamps, turninfraction, being combative, defensive or rude signals and lamps/flags on projecting loads); steering mechanisms; suspensions;will more than likely lead the inspector to issuetires; van and open-top trailer bodies; wheels, rims and hubs; windshield wip- a violation when a warning would have other-ers; electrical cables and systems in engine and battery compartments, seating,wise been appropriate.federal specification cargo tank requirements, as applicable.2. Stay in the Cab - Stay in the truck with bothNorth American Standard Level II hands on the wheel when stopped. Remain in theDriver/Vehicle Walk Around Inspection cab during inspection unless asked to exit by the enforcement officer.An examination that includes each of the items specified under the North Amer- 3. Know Your ELD - If using an ELD to record ican Standard Level II Walk-Around Driver/Vehicle Inspection Procedure. As a minimum, Level II Inspections must include examination of: drivers license;hours of service, know how to operate it fully Medical Examiners Certificate and Skill Performance Evaluation (SPE) Cer- without undue delay or confusion.18 www.wpma.com / Summer 2019'