COMPLIANCE, SAFETY, AND ACCOUNTABILITY (CSA)

One program that helps keep the trucking industry safe is the CSA program. Road safety is crucial for the trucking industry. Accountability from a higher authority helps the industry ensure better road safety by establishing programs.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) created the Compliance, Safety, and Accountability (CSA) program to monitor the safety performance of commercial vehicles and the companies that operate them. This program acts as an accountability check to ensure companies follow the best safety practices.

HOW IS A CSA SCORE DETERMINED?

Unsafe Driving: Violations related to speeding, reckless driving, and other dangerous behavior behind the wheel.

Hours of Service: Violations related to the time a driver is allowed to operate their vehicle.

Vehicle Maintenance: Violations related to the vehicle’s condition, such as worn tires or improper load securement.

Driver Physical Condition: Violations related to a driver’s physical and mental health, including drug and alcohol testing.

Hazardous Materials: Violations related to the transport of hazardous materials, such as improper labeling or inadequate safety measures.

Crash Indicator: An individual driver’s crash record.

Safety Management: Violations related to a company’s safety policies and procedures.

The CSA score can help ensure the trucking industry is safe for everyone on the road. It can help customers choose which carrier to work with and assist carriers in improving their safety performance by identifying areas of improvement. 

BENEFITS OF A GOOD CSA SCORE

A good CSA score is indicative of a safe trucking operation. This score helps ensure that the trucking company and its drivers are following the rules and regulations, making the roads safer for all drivers.

In addition to safety, a good CSA score can also improve the reputation of the trucking company. A low CSA score indicates to customers, shippers, and other industry players that the trucking company is reliable and responsible.

Finally, a good CSA score can also save money. Companies with lower CSA scores are often eligible for discounts on their insurance premiums, as they are considered less risky to work with. These discounts save trucking companies a significant amount of money in the long run.

Learn Safe Driving Practices at TRUCK MASTER SCHOOL