Truckers know the frustration of getting dinged for crashes that were totally out of your control. Someone cuts you off, you swerve to avoid a bigger disaster, and somehow, your CSA score takes a hit. Well, good news! The FMCSAÔÇÖs Crash Preventability Determination Program (CPDP) is expanding in 2024, giving you more chances to clear your name when an accident wasnÔÇÖt your fault.
So, whatÔÇÖs changing? The FMCSA is adding more crash types to the ÔÇ£not preventableÔÇØ list. In plain English: if youÔÇÖre involved in a crash that clearly couldnÔÇÖt be avoided (think someone rear-ends you at a stop sign), youÔÇÖll have a better shot at keeping that wreck off your safety record. And thatÔÇÖs a big deal because fewer preventable crashes mean a cleaner CSA score, which can lead to better job opportunities and lower insurance rates.
To take advantage of this, youÔÇÖll need to submit a request through FMCSAÔÇÖs DataQs system. ItÔÇÖs not a magic button, but if you have dashcam footage or solid evidence that proves the crash wasnÔÇÖt preventable, you can get those black marks wiped from your record. More options to challenge these incidents mean a fairer system for drivers who find themselves in impossible situations.
Of course, not all crashes will be eligible, but with the expansion, your odds of disputing a bad crash report are better than ever. ItÔÇÖs a step in the right direction for trucker safety and fairness on the road.
So, keep your dashcams rolling, stay safe out there, and know that if something goes wrong that wasnÔÇÖt your fault, the FMCSA has your back.
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