In the trucking industry, especially for those who own and operate their own trucks, there are many misconceptions about the need for and requirements of the alcohol and drug program. Below, we'll demystify some of these beliefs and set the record straight to ensure you comply with all necessary regulations and avoid costly penalties.
Myth 1: “If I am the same owner and operator, I don't need the program”.
FALSE
It is a common misconception that by owning and operating a truck, you are exempt from the drug and alcohol program requirements. The reality is, if your truck has a payload capacity greater than 26,000 pounds or if you have a commercial driver's license (CDL), you must have this program in place regardless of whether you are the only driver or if you own more trucks. Compliance is mandatory and applies to all operators who meet these criteria.
Myth 2: “If I drive alone within the state (interstate) and don't go out, I don't need the program”.
FALSE
The regulation does not distinguish between intrastate or interstate operations. If your truck carries more than 26,000 pounds or if you have a CDL license, you need to have the alcohol and drug program, regardless of whether your operations are limited to a single state or cross state lines. The law applies uniformly to all commercial vehicle operators who meet these thresholds.
Myth 3: “If I'm working for another company and they make the program for me, I don't need the program for my own company.”
FALSE BEWARE!
It is critical to understand that even if you work for another company that complies with the alcohol and drug program, your own company must comply independently. If your DOT (Department of Transportation) is active, you are subject to audits and inspections that require you to comply with all requirements, including the alcohol and drug program. Failure to comply can result in significant penalties.
Myth 4: “I won't need those documents from the alcohol and drug program and they are a huge waste of money”.
FALSE
During all DOT audits, the alcohol and drug program is an essential requirement. Failure to have these documents not only results in fines and penalties, but can also affect the operation of your business. In addition, roadside officers may sometimes request these documents during inspections. You should have them in your truck at all times to avoid legal and financial problems.
Myth 5: “My friend says that he has been driving for years without the program and nothing has happened to him, so nothing will happen to me either”.
FALSE
Relying on the anecdotal experience of other drivers can get you into serious trouble. Even if your friend was lucky, the DOT audits 90% of new companies and random audits of established ones. Don't wait until you get an audit to find out you are not compliant. The best practice is to make sure you are in compliance with all regulations from the beginning.
Myth 6: "I took the medical exam required for my license and that is enough."
WARNING, the medical exam for the license or DOT Physical is different from the alcohol and drug program and the drug test required by the DOT. The license exam is a physical medical exam that checks your physical fitness to drive. Some doctors include a drug and alcohol test with this exam, but this is only to make extra money since the regulation does not require it. The medical card you receive does not equate to enrollment in the program or a valid DOT drug test. If you present this document in an audit, it will not be accepted.
Myth 7: "I took a drug test in a laboratory and that is enough."
DOT drug tests are special: they measure certain types of drugs required by the Department of Transportation and must use a special format called CCF (Custody Control Form). This must include your name, your license, and your company's name. The sample must be processed in a DOT-approved laboratory, and most importantly, the results must be certified by a doctor approved by the Department of Transportation called an MRO (Medical Review Officer). Having a test result does not mean you have the alcohol and drug program. You must have a certificate stating that your company and your DOT number are linked to an alcohol and drug consortium and must specify its validity.
Do not be deceived or advised by people who do not know the regulations. Do not do things just to get by. Your company is very important to you and your family. Do not wait until you are fined, stopped on the road, or receive an audit. Get up to date now!
Complying with the alcohol and drug program is not optional for commercial vehicle operators who meet certain criteria. Ignoring these regulations can result in costly penalties and operational problems. It is crucial to stay informed and ensure your company complies with all standards to operate safely and legally. Remember that prevention and compliance are key to success and sustainability in the freight transport sector.
Contáctanos en TRUCKING SERVICES AND LOGISTIC tenemos las soluciones para tu empresa te ayudamos con todo lo relacionado con el programa de alcohol y drogas, Clearinghouse drivers files, tarjetas médicas. También contamos con soluciones y asesorías para los drivers; si tienes una violación contáctatenos nosotros te ayudamos a completar los pasos necesarios que pide el departamento de transporte para poder volver a manejar y te acompañamos hasta que tu violación sea cerrada. Contamos con profesionales en abuso de sustancias en todo el país. (SAP) pruebas de regreso al trabajo, y probas de seguimiento.
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