FMCSA Adds Four Crash Types to Non-Preventable List

Federal trucking regulators have expanded the list of non-preventable crash types included in the Crash Preventability Determination Program, adding four new categories to the previous 17. This change, announced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, increases the total non-preventable crash types to 21, enabling motor carriers to better manage their safety performance records. The new crash types cover situations where a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) is impacted from the side by a vehicle traveling in the same direction, involved in a collision when another motorist enters from a private area, when a driver loses control, and instances supported by video evidence. This revision allows carriers to submit evidence through the DataQs system to have crashes classified as non-preventable, effectively altering their safety scores. The trucking industry largely supports this expansion, highlighting the importance of using video evidence and the need for improvements to the DataQs system to facilitate uploads. The American Trucking Associations (ATA) has voiced overall support for the changes while expressing concerns about the increased burden on an already strained program, which is experiencing significant processing delays. The ATA asserts that crashes not attributed to the carrier or CMV driver should not affect their Compliance Safety Accountability (CSA) scores, emphasizing the importance of fair assessments. Supporters like J.B. Hunt and Werner Enterprises appreciate that recognizing more non-preventable crashes will help prioritize interventions for drivers who face a higher risk of preventable accidents. This approach aligns with a broader trend towards utilizing advanced data analytics and video evidence in evaluating driving incidents, contributing to a clearer understanding of safety in the trucking industry. As an expert in transportation, the changes reflect an essential move towards more data-driven approaches in safety evaluations. Utilizing technology like video for crash assessments not only improves the accuracy of safety ratings but also can incentivize drivers and carriers to adopt safer operational practices. However, the success of these initiatives will depend on the effective management of data systems and timely processing by regulatory bodies, ensuring that the benefits are realized without overwhelming the current infrastructure. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has clarified its position on non-preventable crash determinations, stating these do not imply legal liability, fault, or negligence of any party involved in a crash. Legal fault is established through civil or criminal proceedings, whereas preventability determinations focus solely on safety performance records without legal implications. The FMCSA emphasizes that making all crash data public, regardless of preventability, provides a comprehensive view of a motor carrier's safety performance. From a transportation expert viewpoint, this approach fosters transparency and accountability within the industry, allowing for informed decisions by shippers and the public. However, it is also crucial to ensure that this data is interpreted correctly by stakeholders to avoid misconceptions about carrier safety records and legal responsibilities. Having clearer communication regarding the implications of preventable versus non-preventable determinations will be essential for all parties involved in transportation logistics and safety management.