A new year means new regulations. 2023 will be an especially big year for changes, thanks to the US Department of Transportation Significant Rulemaking Report from September 2022, as well as other efforts from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to improve safety for all drivers. While a slew of new regulations can seem overwhelming, at REY Logistics, we know that prepared drivers can make the needed changes quickly and easily. So, let’s look at some of the changes arriving in this new load.
Our Highlights and Ideas about Coming Changes
New Speed Limits: In the second half of 2023, we should see new speeds and speed limits proposed for interstate trucking to help prevent high-speed accidents. Truckers and schedulers should begin looking at loads and routes to ensure that truckers can meet their deadlines safely.
Electronic Broadcasting: The FMCSA is reviewing comments about the option of trucks electronically broadcasting their identity to roadside enforcement. What will this include in addition to the truck’s information? Carriers should follow this closely and begin looking at the devices necessary to comply with regulations that will come about late in 2023.
Entry-Level Driver Training Program Reviews: Have you been concerned about driver shortages? 2023 could see a new complication, as the FMCSA is likely to review driver training programs as they seek to standardize and enhance training. While this is a good thing from a safety perspective, if some training programs fall under the requirements of the FMCSA, we could see drivers taken out of rotation until they retake training. Fleets should review their training regimen and consider continuing education to help ensure their drivers will still be qualified once the new regulations go into effect.
Automatic Emergency Braking: Brake systems are one of the most important safety features of your truck. The FMCSA is likely to require a standardization of the automatic emergency braking systems that already exist on some truck models. Carriers should begin budgeting now for potential upgrades to vehicles that may not already have these brake systems. Likewise, they should consider retraining to help drivers adjust to changes and not become over-reliant on technology.
Side Underride Guards: Rear underride guards are another important safety feature designed to prevent passenger vehicles from going under the trailer in the event of a rear collision. The FMCSA is looking to raise their standards and add side underride guards as well. While good from a safety stance, this will add weight and reduce fuel efficiency. Fleets should prepare for the upgrades they may need to make both to add side underride guards and potentially improve their rear guards. They should also look at changes to routes and loads that will be needed with the potential increase in fuel costs due to weight change.
CSA Review: Not all the changes are on truckers. Following industry complaints about the arbitrary nature of the Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) Safety evaluation procedures, we may see some changes in 2023. After struggling for two years with recommendations from the National Academy of Sciences, the FMCSA will be reviewing all CSA components. It remains to be seen what the changes will be, but the review is a positive move. Fleets should watch these proceedings carefully as they will impact future evaluations.
Stay On Top of Changes with REY Logistics
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