Proposal addresses driver safety history checks

Just how carriers will be able to investigate the safety history of new or prospective drivers, and what liability the carriers will incur as a result, are among issues addressed in a supplementary notice of proposed rulemaking (49 CFR Parts 390 and 391) by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, according to information published July 17 in theFederal Register. Carriers have until Sept 2, 2003, to comment on the proposal.

Among subjects in the proposed rule are records of drug and alcohol testing, drivers’ rights to review and comment on the accuracy of their records, how driver records will be handled by employers, and the relevancy of driver highway infractions. To see the proposal in its entirety, click here for the Federal Register.

Comments should be addressed to Docket Management Facility, Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh St SW, Nassif Building, Room PL-401, Washington DC 20590-0001. For more information, phone David Goettee at 202-366-4097.