TOP 7 DRIVER CSA VIOLATIONS AND HOW TO IMPROVE THOSE SCORES
Top CSA Violations
CSA Violations, an issue of significant concern in the trucking industry, is currently ranked fifth according to recent studies by the American Transportation Research Institute. For motor carriers, this issue has risen to third in priority, while drivers now list it as their seventh major concern.
The shift in ranking suggests a growing understanding among drivers of the importance of maintaining strong CSA scores. However, a substantial gap remains. The updated data from 2024 highlights a concerning uptick in violations, with over a million violations recorded during driver inspections.
Looking at these inspections, what are the main infractions? Currently, there are seven violations which, with proper driver training, could be easily avoided.
The stats below came from the 2023 FMCSA Roadside Inspection Violations Report
- Failure to obey traffic control device– 65,448 violations and equals 5 CSA severity weight points
- State/Local Laws – Speeding 6-10 miles per hour over the speed limit. – 61,267 violations and equals 4 CSA severity weight points
- False report of drivers record of duty status – 52,962 violations and equals 7 CSA severity weight points
- Operating a CMV without a CDL – 52,516 violations and equals 5 CSA severity weight points
- Failing to use seat belt while operating a CMV – 62,413 violations and equals 8 CSA severity weight points
- Operating a property-carrying vehicle without possessing a valid medical certificate – no previous history – 42,379 violations and equals 1 CSA severity weight points
- Lane Restriction violation – 40,616 violations and equals 3 CSA severity weight points
These numbers underline the critical need for improved driver education and training to reduce these preventable CSA Violations.
Comprehensive Understanding of CSA Violations and Scores
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has developed a set of standards known as the Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) Behavior Analysis and Safety Improvement Categories (BASICs). These standards measure safety performance by assigning scores based on violations across seven distinct areas.
- Unsafe Driving: This category examines instances of reckless or dangerous driving behavior.
- Controlled Substances: This area scrutinizes any violations related to the misuse of alcohol, drugs, or controlled substances.
- Hours of Service: This section focuses on violations related to driving hours, ensuring that drivers aren’t overworking and endangering road safety.
- Vehicle Maintenance: This area looks at how well vehicles are maintained and whether any mechanical issues have led to violations.
- Hazardous Materials: This category focuses on the handling of dangerous goods and any related violations.
- Driver Fitness: This measures the physical and mental health of drivers, ensuring they are fit to operate a vehicle.
- Crash Indicator: This reflects historical crash data, indicating potential future risk.
The points your company receives for CSA violations is directly influenced by the severity of the violations within these BASICs areas. As the link illustrates, different violations carry different weights.
Maintaining good CSA scores for your company is a continuous process that starts with hiring drivers who prioritize safety. Moreover, it requires the development of a strong safety culture throughout the entire organization.
It’s all too easy for complacency to set in if you don’t consistently prioritize safety for both your company and your drivers. The most common violations observed by the FMCSA serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of neglecting safety standards.
1. Failure to obey traffic control device violations
Infringements of traffic control devices, also known as CSA violations, constitute the second largest category of offenses, comprising 5.96% of total violations with a total of 65,448 in 2023. Some crucial rules under this category include:
- Running a red light: It’s mandatory for all drivers to stop for a red lights. Running a red light is a violation under the CSA program.
- Rolling though a stop sign: Rolling through a stop sign, also known as a “rolling stop”, is when a vehicle fails to come to a complete stop at a stop sign, and yes, it is considered a CSA violation.
- passing in a no-passing zone: Passing in a no-passing zone is a dangerous driving behavior where a vehicle overtakes another in an area where passing is explicitly prohibited, and yes, it is a CSA violation.
- Driving the wrong way on a one-way street: Driving the wrong way on a one-way street refers to the act of driving in the opposite direction of the designated flow on a street specifically designed for one-way traffic, and it is a violation under the CSA regulations.
Adherence to these and other traffic laws not only safeguards the driver but also promotes a safer road environment for all. Frequent participation in safety CSA training can help reinforce these rules and lessen the incidence of CSA violations.
2. State/Local Laws – Speeding 6-10 miles per hour over the speed limit
Speeding is the #2 CSA violation for 2023. This area is scored on three different levels, but combined, this violation was seen 5.58% of the time with 61,267 violations. Speeding is not just a violation of the law, it’s a threat to everyone on the road, including the driver themselves. It’s essential that drivers understand the risks associated with speeding. These risks include:
- Increased likelihood of accidents: The faster a vehicle travels, the less time the driver has to react to unexpected situations. This can lead to more accidents, some of which can be severe or even fatal.
- Increased fuel consumption: Speeding can significantly increase a vehicle’s fuel consumption, leading to higher costs.
- Increased vehicle wear and tear: Driving at high speeds can accelerate the wear and tear on a vehicle, leading to more frequent maintenance and repairs.
- Increased insurance rates: If a driver is caught speeding, their insurance rates can increase.
Proper training can help drivers understand why it’s so important to follow speed limits. This training can be incorporated into regular safety meetings or can be part of a more formal training program. With online training, you can assign required materials and track completion. This can help ensure that all drivers understand the importance of maintaining an appropriate speed while driving.
In addition to training, it may be beneficial to implement a system for monitoring driver behavior. This can help identify drivers who consistently speed so that targeted interventions can be implemented. Remember, the goal is not just to reduce CSA violations, but to create a safer driving environment for everyone.
3. False report of drivers record of duty status (Hours of Service) violations
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has set specific rules regarding the hours a driver can be on duty. According to these rules, drivers are allowed to drive for 11 consecutive hours only after a 10-hour off-duty period. Within this timeframe, they must take a 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving, and drivers are limited to 60 hours on duty in a 7-day period.
Thanks to Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs), which are mandatory, drivers can easily track their service hours to ensure they are in compliance. It’s also vital for drivers to understand the importance of route planning to allow ample time to find a safe location for breaks.
It’s worth noting the implications of non-compliance with these regulations. Based on recent FMCSA statistics, 58,918 drivers were cited for Hours of Service (HOS) violations which was 5.37% of the total violations in 2023, which fall under CSA Violations. These violations can lead to fines and can even result in a driver being disqualified if they accumulate too many.
Here are some crucial statistics to remember:
- In 2023, there were more than 58,918 HOS violation cases, classified as CSA Violations.
- The most frequently reported violation was driving beyond the 14-hour duty period, accounting for nearly half of all HOS violations.
- ELD-related violations, such as not maintaining a record of duty status (RODS) or using an unauthorized device, constituted roughly 10% of all HOS violations.
- More serious violations, such as falsifying logbook entries or driving after being declared out-of-service, can lead to severe penalties, including license suspension.
Comprehending these statistics and adhering to the regulations is not merely about evading penalties; it’s also about prioritizing the safety of all road users.
4. Operating a CMV without a CDL
Operating without a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is considered a major CSA Violation, as per the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This violation, which has been reported 52,962 times with 4.83% of the total number of violations in 2023, includes instances of unqualified drivers operating vehicles without a CDL.
The repercussions of such a CSA Violation extend beyond the individual driver and can substantially affect the trucking company as well. It can lead to a decline in the Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) scores of the company and, in extreme cases, may result in the company’s operations being suspended by the FMCSA.
For companies to prevent such scenarios, it’s crucial to have a robust system in place for managing and tracking the CDLs of their drivers. This system should encompass the following:
- Maintaining comprehensive records of all drivers, inclusive of their CDL information.
- Regular monitoring of CDL expiration dates and issuing timely reminders for renewal to drivers.
- Ensuring that no driver is permitted to operate a vehicle without possessing a valid CDL.
- Regularly keeping up with FMCSA updates to stay informed about any modifications in rules or regulations.
Utilizing a training management system like Infinit-I Workforce Solutions can facilitate these tasks, simplifying the maintenance of crucial documents and ensuring compliance.
5. Failing to use seat belt while operating a CMV
Violation of the Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) rules regarding seatbelt use is a serious issue. It’s been statistically proven that seatbelts decrease death risks by 45% and serious injury risks by 50%. They also safeguard drivers and passengers from being ejected during an accident, and protect vital body parts like the brain and spinal cord.
Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states that in 2017, 47% of the 37,133 vehicular accident casualties were not using seatbelts. In 2016, seatbelts were responsible for saving around 14,668 lives, and could have saved an additional 2,456 people if they had been utilized.
Not using a seat belt while operating a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) is considered a Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) violation, accounting for 52,516 instances, which equals 4.79% of total CSA violations.
To combat this CSA violation, the following measures could be implemented:
- Education: Hold mandatory, regular training sessions to ensure all drivers comprehend the significance of seatbelt use.
- Reward System: A reward system could encourage drivers to consistently use their seatbelts. This could involve rewards for maintaining a certain duration without any seatbelt-related infringements.
- Routine Checks: Routine checks should be conducted to ensure adherence to the rules. Any driver found to be in violation of the seatbelt rule should be penalized to dissuade others.
- Public Awareness: Regular public awareness campaigns can help reinforce the importance of seatbelt use in the minds of drivers.
Prioritizing safety is paramount. Therefore, these measures should be earnestly adopted to ensure all drivers consistently use their seatbelts.
6. Operating a property-carrying vehicle without possessing a valid medical certificate – no previous history
Medical certificates are another essential piece of documentation to make sure you have on hand. 3.86% of all CSA violations were due to a driver being without a medical certificate in their possession. This is documentation required during roadside inspections and important to keep available at any time.
Online management systems make it simple to keep up with required dates and keep certificates on file for when it’s needed. This will remove the chance of losing the certificate and make it available to your drivers and safety department without searching.
Moreover, it’s worth noting the significant role the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) plays in regulation and enforcement. According to the FMCSA’s annual report, there were over 2,661,478 driver inspections carried out in 2023, leading to 1,097,238 driver violations. This reinforces the importance of having the necessary documentation, such as the medical certificates, readily available to avoid any potential penalties.
The act of operating a property-carrying vehicle without possessing a valid medical certificate stands as a significant issue. This is not just a casual oversight, but it is a CSA violation. In 2023, the number of such violations reported was alarmingly high at 42,379. This number is not insignificant; it translates to 3.86% of the total number of violations reported in that year. This is a concern that calls for immediate attention and appropriate action.
A detailed list of key documents to keep handy includes:
- A valid and up-to-date medical certificate
- Driver’s License or Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
- Proof of vehicle inspections
- Bills of lading and freight documentation
- Hours-of-service records
- Vehicle registration
- Proof of Insurance
Utilizing a training management system like Infinit-I Workforce Solutions can easily store and report expiring medical cards, simplifying the maintenance of crucial documents and ensuring compliance. Being proactive in maintaining these documents, drivers can significantly reduce the risk of violations during inspections.
7. Lane Restriction violation
In 2023, there were 40,616 reported lane restriction violations, comprising 3.7% of the total CSA violations, with each violation carrying a 3-point penalty affecting carrier CSA scores; such infractions encompass actions like driving in the left lane without permission or remaining in the right lane when unnecessary, varying by state regulations such as Alabama’s requirement to stay in the right lane except for passing or turning left and the District of Columbia’s mandate to keep right except for passing, turning left, or safety considerations.
To prevent lane restriction violations, carriers can:
- Provide comprehensive driver training on state-specific traffic laws, emphasizing the importance of lane discipline.
- Incorporate real-life scenarios in training to enhance understanding and decision-making skills.
- Regularly update training content to reflect changes in traffic laws and regulations.
- Monitor driver performance and provide refresher training when necessary.
The Infinit-I Workforce System can play a vital role in these preventive measures. The system offers a robust training and management platform that allows carriers to deliver targeted, up-to-date training to their drivers. With its tracking and reporting capabilities, carriers can identify areas for improvement and ensure compliance, thus reducing the risk of CSA violations.
Creating a Positive Safety Culture to Reduce Violations
To really reduce CSA violations, you need a positive safety culture in your company. The best place to start with this is implementing a training program that’s easy for drivers to participate in.
Infinit-I Workforce Solution’s online training management system helps make safety training easily accessible to your drivers so you can provide regular, ongoing training on these critical issues in order to improve CSA scores.
Infinit-I also allows you to keep up with important documentation such as CDLs and medical records. The automatic certification on training helps you defend your safety record easily, and the online method means drivers can access their training from anywhere.
To see how easy the Infinit-I Workforce platform is to use, request a free demo today. Get your CSA scores under control and help your drivers remain safe on the roads.
Why Choose Infinit-I Workforce Training Management System?
The Infinit-I Workforce Training Management System offers a wide range of benefits for transportation safety managers and supervisors. It encompasses a holistic approach towards the enhancement of safety, efficiency, and overall performance in a transportation setting. Here are the key benefits:
- Improve Fuel Efficiency: The system has been shown to improve fuel efficiency by 3.5 to 15.5%. Driver behavior plays a crucial role in fuel consumption, and through the Infinit-I Fuel Efficiency Program, companies can save 3.5% to 13.5% on fuel, leading to significant cost savings.
- Reduce CSA Violations: A critical aspect of transportation safety is compliance with the Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) program. Infinit-I Workforce Solutions aids in reducing CSA violations by up to 50%, significantly improving a company’s safety record and standing.
- Decrease Accident Costs and Frequency: Through its comprehensive safety training, the system can reduce accident costs by up to 50.7% and reduce accidents by at least 18%.
- Reduce Driver Turnover: The system can help reduce driver turnover by up to 85%. By providing quality training and a clear understanding of expectations, drivers are more likely to stay with the company.
- Reduce Training Costs: The system can help reduce training costs by up to 50% by offering efficient and accessible training solutions.
- Enhanced Defensibility in Court: The system helps increase your defensibility in court by providing comprehensive training records and documentation.
- Improved Insurance Rates: By showcasing a verified safety record, companies can negotiate better insurance rates, leading to cost savings.
- Ease of Access with Mobile Apps: The Infinit-I Workforce Solutions app, available on both Apple and Android, makes it even easier for drivers to access their training from anywhere, at any time.
The Infinit-I Workforce Training Management System is a comprehensive solution for transportation safety managers and supervisors, offering a broad range of benefits from improved fuel efficiency to reduced CSA violations, lower accident rates, and cost savings on training and insurance. Its focus on thorough and accessible training, as well as its commitment to documentation, makes it an essential tool in the transportation industry.
FAQs
What are the top CSA violations seen during inspections?
Some of the top violations include log violation, lamp violation, brake system violation, tire violation, windshield violation, steering mechanism violation, suspension violation, and seat belt violation.
What are the seven areas that CSA scores are based on?
The seven areas are unsafe driving, controlled substances, hours of service, vehicle maintenance, hazardous materials, driver fitness, and crash indicator.
How can a company improve its CSA scores?
A continuous process is needed to maintain good CSA scores. This starts with hiring drivers who prioritize safety and developing a strong safety culture throughout the organization.
What is a CSA violation?
A CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) violation refers to breaches of safety regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These violations can include unsafe driving practices, hours of service non-compliance, vehicle maintenance issues, controlled substances/alcohol misuse, hazardous materials compliance failures, and driver fitness problems.
What is the most common CSA violation?
Speeding is the top CSA violation, accounting for 61,267 violations in 2023 and equals 4 CSA severity weight points of all violations.
What are the risks associated with speeding?
The risks include increased likelihood of accidents, increased fuel consumption, increased vehicle wear and tear, and increased insurance rates.
What are some common traffic laws that drivers should adhere to?
Some examples include seatbelt laws, drunk driving laws, texting while driving laws, and stop sign and red light laws.
Why is it important for drivers to wear seatbelts?
Seatbelts reduce the risk of death by 45% and cut the risk of serious injury by 50%. They also prevent drivers from being ejected during a crash and protect the brain and spinal cord.
What are the consequences of operating without a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)?
Operating without a CDL is a major violation that can lead to severe consequences, including a decrease in the company’s CSA scores and even shutdown by the FMCSA.
What is a medical certificate and why is it important?
A medical certificate is a required document during roadside inspections. It verifies that the driver is medically fit to operate a vehicle.
What are the FMCSA requirements for hours drivers can remain on duty?
Drivers can only drive 11 consecutive hours after a 10 hour off-duty period. They must take a 30-minute break after 8 hours, and they can only do 60 hours on duty in a 7-day period.
What are the consequences of using a cellphone while driving?
The use of handheld mobile devices while driving is a serious traffic violation that can lead to penalties and negatively affect the safety of the driver and others on the road.
How can a positive safety culture be created within the company?
Implementing a training program that is easily accessible to drivers is a good place to start in creating a positive safety culture.
How to dispute a CSA violation?
There are three key factors that the DataQ system considers when evaluating a new determination request for CSA score reduction: The Date of the Crash, The Category of the Crash, and The Correct Crash Report Number.
How does a training management system benefit a company?
A training management system helps make safety training easily accessible to drivers. It also assists in maintaining necessary documents and staying in compliance.
What is the role of the Infinit-I Workforce platform?
The Infinit-I Workforce platform makes safety training easily accessible to drivers, helps keep up with important documentation, and provides automatic certification on training.
How can Infinit-I Workforce platform improve CSA scores?
Infinit-I provides regular, ongoing training on critical safety issues that can help improve CSA scores by reducing FMCSA violations.
How can a company see the Infinit-I Workforce platform in action?
Companies can request a free training management system demo to see how easy the Infinit-I Workforce platform is to use and put you on the right road to reduce CSA violations.
