The trucking industry plays a significant role in the economy of the United States and makes it possible for business owners to transport their goods and materials. However, they are subject to many regulations to ensure public safety. These include obtaining a motor carrier permit, MC Authority, and many more.
The trucking industry is complex, and many branches of government regulate it at the federal and state levels. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is the agency regulating interstate trucking practices. It is a sub-division of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Therefore, a basic understanding of how the industry works ensures your trucking company complies with the regulations. Read on as Global Multi Services explain how the government ensures safety in the trucking industry.
ESTABLISHMENT OF AGENCIES
Several agencies within the government impact the transportation industry. They include the Department of Transportation, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The Department of Transportation is the primary regulatory agency for transportation in the United States. It is the largest and most recognized agency influencing the industry. It also ensures the country has the safest, most efficient, and modern transportation system. These boost the country’s economy, productivity, and global competitiveness. Other agencies within the DOT make sure the trucking industry continues to run efficiently.
ROLE OF FMCSA
The FMCSA regulates the interstate trucking industry by enforcing safety rules, driver qualification, and licensing. They create safety regulations for commercial motor carriers and are responsible for developing standards to give commercial driver’s licenses. They also ensure the safe operation of large commercial vehicles to prevent traffic-related accidents, injuries, and fatalities. These also include regulating Hours of Service (HOS) and safety programs.
THE ROLE OF NHTSA
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reduces death, injuries, and economic losses caused by motor vehicle accidents. They achieve this by doing extensive research to understand driver behavior and traffic safety. NHTSA investigates safety defects in motor vehicles and provides safety standards. They also enforce vehicle performance standards and fuel economy standards.
IN A NUTSHELL
Federal and state governments influence the transportation industry through safety regulations and funding. The Department of Transportation also improves the quality of life in rural and urban communities across the United States by ensuring safe driving practices.
Global Multi Services is a trucking permit company that provides motor carrier permits, IRP Plates, IFTA permits, and other mandatory licenses for trucking companies. Associate your business with a trucking permit company that knows every detail and is up to date on changes in industry regulations.
