Violations of Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Regulations
The FMCSA identifies 22 ELD-related violations that contribute to CSA scores.
Furthermore, the complete enforcement of the FMCSA's ELD mandate is currently in effect, signifying that ELD violations have an impact on CSA scores. Additionally, if a non-exempt driver lacks an ELD when required, they are subject to being placed out of service for a minimum of 10 hours.
Finding oneself in such a situation is undesirable.
In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the actual "cost" of ELD violations, their consequences on CSA scores, strategies to avoid ELD violations, and more.
Drivers are being sidelined from service.
As previously mentioned, if a non-exempt driver lacks the required ELD, they face being placed out of service for a minimum of 10 hours. Additionally, drivers can also be subjected to out-of-service status for:
- Utilizing an unauthorized ELD.
- Falsifying logs.
In the scenario where the driver possesses paper logs, they may be permitted to complete the journey and deliver the load after the 10-hour out-of-service period concludes. However, they cannot be dispatched for their next trip until compliance with the ELD mandate is achieved by installing an FMCSA-registered electronic logging device.
If a driver is dispatched without an authorized ELD again, both the driver and the carrier may be exposed to further enforcement actions.
The cost of violations and out of service
Each day a driver is out of service represents an approximate revenue loss of $264. Moreover, receiving an out-of-service order often entails the need for vehicle towing, with an average cost of up to $344 for a 40-mile tow. These expenses are incurred in addition to fines and penalties for the violation.
ELD violations carry a maximum civil penalty of $1,307 per day the violation persists, reaching up to $13,072.
These violations not only result in direct financial costs through fines but also have broader implications. They adversely impact CSA scores, elevating the likelihood of roadside inspections and hindering the ability to secure high-paying loads and pursue favorable business opportunities.
In summary, violations have a multifaceted negative impact on your business—imposing financial penalties, causing driver downtime, and detrimentally affecting CSA scores, and low scores can disturb your fleet management. In fact, in the worst cases, the government can seize your business.