Ask X3What does 49 CFR 171.21 (Assistance in investigations and special studies) require?
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Short answer
49 CFR 171.21 requires shippers, carriers, and others to provide records and assistance to DOT investigators. They must make all records and information available and give reasonable assistance in the investigation of an incident.
The rule says
"A shipper, carrier, package owner, package manufacturer or certifier, repair facility, or person reporting an incident under the provisions of 171.16 must: (1) Make all records and information pertaining to the incident available to an authorized representative or special agent of the Department of Transportation upon request; and (2) Give an authorized representative or special agent of the Department of Transportation reasonable assistance in the investigation of the incident." (49 CFR 171.21(a))
In plain English
This rule means that when the Department of Transportation investigates an incident, it needs cooperation from the parties involved. They must provide all relevant records and information, and help the investigators as needed. This could include answering questions, providing documents, or allowing inspectors to examine equipment or facilities. The goal is to help the DOT understand what happened and how to prevent similar incidents in the future.
What to do
- Respond promptly to requests for records and information from DOT investigators
- Provide complete and accurate information to help the investigation
- Give reasonable assistance to investigators, such as answering questions or allowing inspections
- Maintain accurate and detailed records of incidents and related information