Rule allows FMCSA to shut down carriers with pattern of violations

Washington – The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration can completely shut down commercial truck and bus companies that show an “egregious” pattern of non-compliance with federal safety regulations, under a new final rule set to go into effect Feb. 21.

The rule allows FMCSA to suspend or revoke carriers’ operating authority even if investigations into individual violations would not result in such an action. FMCSA’s new authority also extends to carriers that employ individuals who repeatedly violate safety regulations and have influence over the carrier’s operations, as well as carriers that “reincarnate” into new entities to avoid penalties.

According to an FMCSA press release, the final rule complements a 2012 rule that made it easier to take reincarnated carriers off the roads using an out-of-service order until further investigation is completed.