What does 49 CFR 385.19 (Safety fitness information) require?

Short answer

49 CFR 385.19 requires that final safety ratings be made available to other Federal and State agencies, and to the public upon request. The public can request a motor carrier's safety rating by providing the carrier's name, principal office address, and USDOT number or docket number.

The rule says

"Final ratings will be made available to other Federal and State agencies in writing, telephonically or by remote computer access." (49 CFR 385.19(a))

"The final safety rating assigned to a motor carrier will be made available to the public upon request." (49 CFR 385.19(b))

In plain English

This regulation is about transparency and accountability in motor carrier safety. It ensures that safety ratings are shared with relevant agencies and the public, promoting safer roads and informed decision-making. When a member of the public requests a safety rating, they must provide specific information about the motor carrier, such as its name and USDOT number. The FMCSA will then provide the safety rating, which can be used to assess the carrier's safety performance.

What to do

• Request a motor carrier's safety rating by providing the required information (name, principal office address, and USDOT number or docket number) to the FMCSA.
• Check the FMCSA Safety and Fitness Electronic Records System website for the safety rating.
• Contact the FMCSA at (800) 832-5660 for an oral response to a safety rating request.
• Ensure that your company's safety rating is up-to-date and accurate to maintain a good reputation and comply with regulations.