Did you know there are about 2 million tractor trailers driving in the US? With so many big rigs on the road the FMCSA released the CSA Scoring System in late 2010 aiming to increase focus on unsafe drivers and carriers. Carriers and drivers with a poor CSA Score will be inspected more frequently.
A good CSA score = less inspections = more time driving!
There are 7 major categories that make up your CSA Score.
Unsafe Driving – Example violations: Speeding, reckless driving, improper lane change and inattention.
Crash Indicator – Crash history is not specifically a behavior. Rather, it is a consequence of a behavior and may indicate a problem with the motor carrier that warrants intervention. It is based on information from State-reported crash reports and histories or patterns of high crash involvement, including frequency and severity.
HOS Compliance – Example violations: Exceeding HOS, maintaining an inaccurate logbook, and operating a CMV while sick or tired.
Vehicle Maintenance – Example violations: brakes, lights, and other mechanical defects, and failure to make required repairs.
Controlled Substances and Alcohol – Example violations: use or possession of controlled substances or alcohol.
Hazmat Compliance – Example violations: improper load securement, cargo retention, and hazardous material handling.
Driver Fitness – Example violations: failing to have a valid and appropriate commercial driver’s license and being medically unqualified to operate a CMV.