DOT Compliance in Georgia

As a trucking company in Georgia, it’s essential that you comprehend and follow all Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations. These regulations protect both the safety of commercial vehicles on the road and the general population.

Navigating DOT Compliance in the State of Georgia

Screening for drugs and alcohol is a crucial aspect of DOT compliance in Georgia. All commercial drivers must submit to drug and alcohol testing, both before starting work and randomly throughout their employment. These tests must be administered by a substance abuse professional (SAP).

Truck maintenance is another crucial component of DOT compliance in Georgia. Every commercial vehicle must be subjected to routine maintenance to help ensure it’s in good working condition and safe to operate.

Understanding Georgia’s Transportation Ecosystem

With more than 73,000 registered commercial vehicles, Georgia has a sizable trucking business. Georgia continues to be a major logistics and distribution hub, with the Port of Savannah being the nation’s fourth largest port. This means that transportation companies in the state must maintain a strong focus on DOT compliance.

Any vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 10,001 pounds or more must be registered as a commercial vehicle under Georgia law. TruckingHQ can help you get a DOT number, which is another requirement for these vehicles.

The Dire Consequences of Ignoring Georgia DOT Regulations

The Motor Carrier Compliance Division of the Georgia Department of Public Safety is responsible for ensuring all trucking companies adhere to DOT standards. Businesses risk severe fines and penalties if they violate the regulations. This could amount to up to $15,000 per infraction, with an additional $10,000 for each day the offense persists.

Additionally, the commissioner has the authority to impose additional fines for particular infractions. The FMCSA‘s program known as the Uniform Fine Assessment program is used to determine the fined amount. Georgia trucking companies should be aware of these potential penalties and take action to abide by all DOT standards.