Article 2: How to Prevent the 5 Most Frequent DOT Violations

In 2023–24, FMCSA issued over a million roadside violations, including safety critical infractions, out-of-service orders, and log violations—many of which are entirely preventable. According to FMCSA and inspection data:

Here are the top five violations—and what you can do to avoid them:

Operating a CMV without a proper CDL (or with a suspended license) resulted in over 53,000 out-of-service orders in 2023.
Ensure every driver has a valid CDL, use MVR monitoring, and remove anyone with a suspension immediately.

False logs, missing RODS, or driving beyond hours caused nearly 59,000 HOS violations—almost half due to exceeding the 14-hour window.
Keep your logs clean with driver training, daily reviews, and ELD audits—especially addressing unassigned drive time and yard moves.

Many drivers were cited for failure to show a valid med card—over 6,200 were listed in driver OOS data last year.
Track med card expiry, keep a copy in the cab and in driver files, and enforce audits for drivers approaching their deadline.

Carriers without a written program, random testing pool, or Clearinghouse compliance saw hundreds of violations.
We set up full DOT testing programs, enroll every driver automatically, and manage follow-up documentation.

Late or missing filings cost carriers authority. MCS-150 delinquency can inactivate your DOT number without warning.
LT Advisors tracks filing cycles, prepares submissions annually or quarterly, and keeps all documentation current.

We’re more than consultants—we’re your monthly operations partner:

• Continuous file management ensures nothing expires unnoticed.
  
  
• Document audits and gap analysis catch issues before they become violations.
  
  
• Automated alerts and renewal reminders prevent last-minute scrambling.
  
  
• Training and driver education reduce errors on the road.
  
  
• DataQ support and corrections protect CSA scores proactively.
  
  

One fleet we serve had five violations in six months—mostly log issues and missing med cards. We rebuilt their files, trained their staff, and removed three violations via DataQ. Their CSA percentile dropped by 30 points, earning them better rates and fewer audit triggers.

A clean safety record starts with consistent processes, regular follow-up, and proactive documentation. That's exactly what LT Advisors delivers—reliable, low-cost compliance support tailored to your operation.

Need help? Start with a free performance audit of your files and compliance systems.