Non-Preventable DOT Recordable Accidents
When it comes to road safety, understanding the nuances of accident reporting and prevention is crucial for both motor carriers and drivers. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) offers a valuable resource through its Crash Preventability Determination Program (CPDP), allowing drivers to challenge the preventability of specific crashes. This program not only helps clean up carrier CSA scores but also shapes the future employability of drivers. As we delve into the intricacies of this program, we'll also discuss the importance of fire safety, particularly during National Fire Prevention Week. Being proactive in these areas can make a significant difference in protecting both lives and careers. Let’s explore how you can leverage the FMCSA program and implement essential fire safety practices on the road.
In this issue:
- Qualifying Crashes.
- October 5 - 11 is Fire Prevention Week.
- Registration is open online for the 2025 Idealease/NPTC Fall Safety Seminar!
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Check out past Idealease Safety Bulletins.
Don’t Overlook the FMCSA Crash Preventability Program!
Motor carriers and drivers have the opportunity to contest the preventability of specific crashes through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) Crash Preventability Determination Program (CPDP). If the FMCSA approves the challenge, non-preventable DOT-recordable crashes can be excluded from your CSA score.
Here’s how the program operates:
The FMCSA has recognized various crash types as non-preventable. Crashes involving commercial motor vehicles that meet these criteria and occurred on or after August 1, 2019, can be reviewed under this refreshed program.
To initiate a review and prove that your crash was not preventable, motor carriers and drivers must utilize the online DataQs system.
? Challenge the preventability of a crash here: https://dataqs.fmcsa.dot.gov/
? Learn more about the program here: Crash Preventability Determination Program (CPDP) | FMCSA
If a crash is classified as non-preventable, the FMCSA will take the following actions:
- Eliminate the crash from the carrier’s Crash Indicator score in the Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) system, which will lower the likelihood of being subjected to targeted enforcement.
- Include a note in the Pre-Employment Screening Program (PSP) that states the crash was non-preventable, thereby minimizing the likelihood of a driver facing employment denial due to their crash history.
Qualifying Crashes
How can you determine if your crash qualifies for consideration? The FMCSA outlines specific scenarios that are deemed non-preventable. A crash is considered eligible if a commercial motor vehicle:
- Was hit from behind
- Was hit on the side towards the rear
- Was involved in an incident with a driver going the wrong way or another driver in a wrong-way situation
- Was struck by a vehicle while making an illegal turn or U-turn
- Was stopped legally at a traffic control signal (like a stop sign, red light, or yield) or was parked, even if unattended
- Was involved in a collision with a vehicle that failed to slow down or stop in traffic
- Was hit by a driver who did not stop at a traffic control device
- Was struck by a person under the influence (or a related violation such as operating while intoxicated) as per local laws, or hit by a motorist involved in such a situation
- Was hit by a driver who suffered a medical emergency that contributed to the crash
- Was struck by a driver who acknowledged being distracted (for example, by a cell phone, GPS, or passengers) or admitted to dozing off
- Was hit by cargo, equipment, or debris (like fallen rocks, trees, or unknown road items), or if the crash was caused by a failure of infrastructure
- Made contact with an animal
- Hit a person who was attempting or committing suicide
- Was involved in a rare type of crash not mentioned above (such as being struck by an airplane, a skydiver, or a deceased driver)
October 5–11: Fire Prevention Week
National Fire Prevention Week provides an excellent opportunity to discuss fire prevention strategies and responses for drivers operating commercial motor vehicles.
One essential aspect of a driver's daily vehicle inspection is checking the fire extinguisher. It’s common for extinguishers to lose pressure due to leaks or to remain uncharged after use if they are not properly maintained.
A driver’s response during a fire can significantly impact lives and reduce damage, making it imperative to be prepared and knowledgeable.
Registration is now open for the 2025 Idealease/NPTC Fall Safety Seminars!
Idealease and the National Private Truck Council NPTC will again be hosting safety seminars in the spring and fall of 2025. The one-day seminar this year will focus on basic safety and compliance, regulation changes and CSA. The seminars will be provided to all Idealease customers, potential customers and NPTC members at no charge. The seminar provides important information applicable for both the novice and experienced transportation professionals.
Upcoming Fall Seminars:
- 10/7/2025 - Orlando, FL
- 10/14/2025 - Atlanta, GA
- 10/16/2025 - Nashville, TN
- 10/21/2025 - Los Angeles, CA
- 10/23/2025 - Linthicum, MD
To register for an upcoming fall seminar in 2025, click on the following link:
Safety Seminar Registration
*The Idealease Safety Bulletin is provided for Idealease locations and their customers and is not to be construed as a complete or exhaustive source of compliance or safety information. The Idealease Safety Bulletin is advisory in nature and does not warrant, guarantee, or otherwise certify compliance with laws, regulations, requirements, or guidelines of any local, state, or Federal agency and/or governing body, or industry standards
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