Resources

Best Practices for Law Enforcement and Driver Licensing Agencies

• Massachusetts State Police: University Technical Assistance – A presentation by Massachusetts State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement section on ways for law enforcement agencies to utilize university partnerships. November 2024.
• Motor Carrier Outreach Targeting Program - A presentation on targeted outreach conducted by Jonathan Nicastro of the Motor Carrier Compliance Bureau, New York Department of Transportation. November 2024.
• Equitable Traffic Enforcement: Targeted Strategies for Change – A presentation by Ken Barone of the University of Connecticut’s Institute for Municipal and Regional Policy, University of Connecticut, sharing key findings from 12 years of research, particularly focusing on fair enforcement approaches for traffic safety stops. November 2024.
• Enhancing Commercial Vehicle Safety with Drones – A presentation by David Price of Greenman-Pedersen, Inc., highlighting successful collaborations between skilled drone operators and law enforcement, demonstrating ways drones can assist with mapping crash scenes and reconstruction, providing more timely investigations and engineering assessments toward implementing enhanced countermeasures. November 2024.
• Human Trafficking: Its Different Faces, and How CMV Drivers Can Fight It – A presentation by Kylla Lanier of Truckers Against Trafficking, providing an overview the various kinds of human trafficking (such as labor trafficking), and ways to address it. November 2024.
• Increasing Public Awareness About Human Trafficking Among the CMV Community – A presentation by Erin Mabry of the Virginia Tech Transportation Center on ways to effectively communicate issues surrounding human trafficking to members of the CMV industry. November 2024.
• Harnessing Effective Partnerships to End Human Trafficking – A presentation by Captain Sean Stewart of Virginia State Police on cross-discipline partnerships between CMV stakeholders to address human trafficking. November 2024.
• Reducing Accidents Through Technology — A recording of a presentation by Lt. Wade Kimble, Texas Highway Patrol, Commercial Vehicle Enforcement. May 2021. View Slides.
• Advancements in Weigh Station Technologies: The Tire Anomaly and Classification System (TACS) — A presentation by Michael Weick, International Road Dynamics, November 2018.
• Tire Safety Screening — The Tire Anomaly and Classification System (TACS) supports the screening of commercial vehicles at highway (up to 100 mph) and ramp speeds at weigh station facilities to identify those vehicles which are unsafe due to missing or underinflated tires.
• Commercial Industry Education Program — This program by the California Highway Patrol offers free educational safety seminars for commercial drivers, carriers, and drivers of passenger vehicles.

Commercial Driver Licensing

• National CDL Program Training — The goal of the National CDL Program is to reduce the number and severity of CMV crashes in the United States by ensuring that only qualified drivers are eligible to receive and retain a CDL. For every one CDL driver, there should be one record and one licensing document. This training includes 16 eLearning modules to gain insight into the background, tools, systems, and processes that provide the backbone for ensuring that only qualified drivers are operating on our Nation's roads. August 2022.
• Assessment of the CDL Disqualification Process — A recording of a presentation by Dave Madsen, Principal Technical Advisor, US DOT Volpe Center. May 2021. View Slides.
• The Importance of Judicial Outreach in the CMV/CDL World — A recording of a presentation by Hon. Gary Graber, Town Justice, Town of Darien and Past President, New York State Magistrates Association. May 2021. View Slides.
• Best Practices for Citations and Crash Reporting — A recording of a presentation by Chris Turner, Director of Enforcement Data and Judicial Outreach, Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance. May 2021. View Slides.
• Report on Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Skills Testing Delays — States are required to test CDL applicants for the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for the safe operation of the applicant's intended commercial motor vehicle. Applicants in some States face significant delays when attempting to take a skills test and thus complete their licensure requirements. This report analyzes the results of a national survey given to each State regarding their CDL skills testing programs. December 2020.
• CDL Data Quality Assessment —In a partnership between the Kentucky Transportation Center at the University of Kentucky and the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, this study highlights several problems with CDL data, including a lack of standardization for state-specific traffic infractions; process and workflow difficulties that degrade the accuracy, validity, and timeliness of data; adjudication procedures that can potentially mask serious violations from CDL driver history records; inadequate recordkeeping in state law enforcement citation and court case management software applications; outdated mainframe systems in urgent need of upgrades; IT personnel who are not paid enough; and insufficient reporting requirements for federal agencies that issue traffic citations.
• Electronic Citation and Adjudication of Traffic Offenses – An overview presentation by Attorney Stacey Manware of Connecticut Judicial Courts on electronic citations and how they impact adjudication. October 2022.
• Court Efforts to Reduce Crashes and Save Lives Through Education – A presentation by Judge Gary Graber of Darien Town Court on utilizing adjudication as a touch point for providing safety education. October 2022.
• Action Plan for Improved CDL Enforcement & Masking Avoidance – A presentation by Aaron Ann Cole-Funfsinn of National Traffic Law Center outlining methods for addressing the practice of masking and ensuring restricted drivers are not acquiring new licenses. October 2022.
• Mastering Masking — An article by Elizabeth Earleywine, Attorney Advisor at FMCSA, that provides an overview of how modern-day CDL safety measures came about, This is followed by an article by Jeanine Howard, Staff Attorney at the National District Attorneys Association, describing a course that is available to provide prosecutors and other traffic safety professionals with the materials and techniques necessary to train others in their respective jurisdictions about the fundamentals of the prohibition on masking offenses. July 2019.
• Courts and SDLAs: Working Together for Reporting Convictions - National Center for State Courts — A presentation by Kathryn Holt, Senior Court Research Analyst and Margaret Allen, Director of National Programs. November 2018.
• National Center for State Courts Commercial Driving Resource Center — Overview of outreach, research, and technology initiatives in the court community, including legal issues, community awareness to improve the timely transmission of commercial driving convictions, technology tools, and other resources.
• Your CDL Resource: The National District Attorneys Association — A presentation by Jeanine Howard, Staff Attorney. November 2018.
• National Traffic Law Center CDL Resources — Resources available include a CDL Quick Reference Guide, a Prosecutor's Guide to the Basics of Commercial Motor Vehicle Licensing and Violations, and a Masking Quick Reference Guide.
• AAMVA Best Practices and Model Legislation — Through AAMVA's Committees and Working Groups, AAMVA works with member jurisdictions to develop best practice documents and model legislation.
• Commercial Skills Test Information Management System (CSTIMS) Training Material — CSTIMS provides a consistent way to track the scheduling and entry of test results for commercial skills tests by jurisdiction and third-party examiners.
• CDL Resources for Judges — A website developed by the National Judicial College with Commercial Driver's License/Commercial Motor Vehicle resources for judges including webcasts, state cases and statutes, instructor videos, and in-state programs.

Advancements in Safety Technologies, Connected Vehicles, and Automation

• Automated Vehicle Safety Expert Panel - Engaging Drivers and Law Enforcement - This white paper from the Governors Highway Safety Association discusses the safety challenges and recommendations for the safe integration of autonomous vehicles (AVs) on public roads, with a focus on policy, technology, and infrastructure.
• University of Wyoming: Connected Vehicle Training Framework and Lessons Learned to Improve Safety of Highway Patrol Troopers – This University of Wyoming video playlist provides truck drivers with safety tips and strategies for navigating work zones, emphasizing speed control, awareness, and following specific protocols to prevent accidents.
• Safe Testing and Deployment of Vehicles Equipped with Automated Driving Systems Guidelines – This American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators document offers guidelines for the safe testing and deployment of vehicles equipped with automated driving systems (ADS), focusing on vehicle standards, driver training, and regulatory considerations.
• USDOT FMCSA: A Pathway to Secure Connections – This FMCSA article discusses the U.S. Department of Transportation's efforts in researching, designing, and implementing a security system for connected and automated vehicles.
• Truck Platooning Research and Technology Evaluation – The FHWA "Highways for LIFE" program aims to accelerate the adoption of innovations and technologies to improve highway safety and quality.
• Advanced Technology in CMVs – A presentation by Thomas Kelly of the FMCSA on the various existing and emerging technologies. November 2024.
• Aurora Automation Overview – An overview presentation by Matt Blackburn of Aurora building knowledge about automation in the commercial motor vehicle industry, examining how the relationship between an autonomous vehicle and in-cab operator can be improved. November 2024.
• See All You Need to See: Research on Direct Vision – A presentation by Kris Carter of MassDOT on systems that reduce driver blind spots. November 2024.
• Intelligent Speed Assist Technologies in Practice – A presentation by Sarah Yahoodik of Volpe National Transportation Systems Center on electronic safety systems that provide feedback to the driver about their speeds, or, in some cases, actively limit the top speed a vehicle can reach based on local speed limits. November 2024.
• ADAS: Managing Driver's Interactions with Advanced Safety Technology – A presentation by Mike Lasko of Boyle Transportation on strategies and challenges related to how drivers engage with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). October 2022.
• Leveraging Telematics to Reduce Risk in Fleet Operations – A presentation by Frank Cruice of Perdue Farms, Inc. on how telematics systems can be utilized to identify fleet drivers engaged in risky driving. October 2022.
• Autonomous Vehicles & the National Roadway Safety Strategy – A presentation by Missy Cummings of National Highway Safety Administration and Duke University on the ways the advent of autonomous vehicles relate to the National Roadway Safety Strategy and potential challenges and opportunities. October 2022.
• Racing Toward an Autonomous Future – A presentation by Rhonda Stricklin of the University of Alabama Transportation Institute on the future of autonomous trucking. October 2022.
• Automated CMV Evaluation (ACE): Inspection Demonstrations and Evaluation – A presentation by Brenda Lantz of North Dakota State University outlining operational test scenarios for assessing inspections and evaluations of autonomous vehicles. October 2022.
• Assurance of Rest? Truck Parking Technology – A presentation by Scott Grenerth of Truck Specialized Parking Services, Inc. on the ways various methods and technologies are being used to provide drivers with safer parking options, as well as ways to improve the overall workplace safety culture. October 2022.
• Truck Parking Technologies: Benefits and Limitations – A presentation by Tom Phelan of Gannet Fleming, Inc. on technologies being deployed to assist drivers with finding safer places to park. October 2022.
• Issues in Autonomous Vehicle Testing and Deployment — A report released by the U.S. Congressional Service that discusses advances in vehicle technology, issues in federal safety regulation, state concerns, and implications for highway infrastructure. April 2021.
• Automated Vehicles (AV) Comprehensive Plan — Building upon the principles stated in AV 4.0, this plan defines three goals to achieve USDOT's vision for Automated Driving Systems (ADS). These goals are to promote collaboration and transparency, modernize the regulatory environment, and prepare the transportation system for the safe integration of automated driving systems. January 2021.
• Societal Benefit-Cost Analysis and Return on Investment (ROI) Calculator for Large Truck Safety Technologies — In a partnership with stakeholders of the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute (VTTI), National Surface Transportation Safety Center for Excellence (NSTSCE), equipping large trucks with lane departure warning (LDW) and video-based on-board safety systems were found to be cost effective on a societal level for all combinations of costs, efficacy, and economic discount rates examined in the study, for both new and existing trucks. Results for automatic emergency braking (AEB) were mixed. The AEB system was analyzed as cost effective considering societal benefits when equipping new trucks and retrofitting existing trucks at the $500 system cost level. However, all three systems were considered cost effective with an assumed 28 percent efficacy rate, when limiting to the case of only equipping new large trucks. In an attempt to increase the adoption of large truck advanced safety technologies, researchers developed an Excel-based ROI calculator and accompanying user manual. October 2020.
• Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance - Automated Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Working Group — This report represents an initial step to understand the Automated Driving Systems (ADS)-equipped CMV universe, identify use-scenarios that enforcement officials are likely to face in the next three to five years, and recommend changes to policy and procedures to ensure that enforcement officials are able to identify safety issues while not unduly burdening industry. September 2020.
• Synthesis of State-Level Planning and Strategic Actions on Automated Vehicles — This report prepared by the University of California Institute of Transportation Studies with support from the State of California provides a summary and comparative analysis of actions states across the United States are taking in response to automated vehicles (AVs). September 2020.
• Autonomous Road Vehicles and Law Enforcement — This report identifies high-priority problems and needs related to autonomous vehicles (AVs) within the next five years and explores scenarios involving AVs that have occurred or will occur, and offers potential technical options for addressing such situations. Three themes were identified: (1) designing a means of communicating with AVs that also maintains cybersecurity; (2) improving stakeholder communication and collaboration; and (3) developing standard procedures, guidelines and training for law enforcement interacting with AVs. July 2020.
• Issues in Autonomous Vehicle Testing and Deployment — A report from the U.S. Congressional Research Service that describes legislation, as well as obstacles to passing legislation, regarding autonomous vehicles. February 2020.
• Redefining the Role of Government Activities in Automated Trucking — The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) released new research that identifies both the positive and negative impacts associated with numerous government policies, programs and regulations that target autonomous truck development and testing. January 2020.
• Ensuring American Leadership in Automated Vehicle Technologies: Automated Vehicles (AV) 4.0 — AV 4.0 builds upon AV 3.0 by expanding the scope to 38 relevant United States Government (USG) components which have direct or tangential equities in safe development and integration of AV technologies. AV 4.0 is structured around three key areas: USG AV Principles, Administration Efforts Supporting AV Technology Growth and Leadership, and USG Activities and Opportunities for Collaboration. January 2020.
• Automated Driving Systems (ADS) Policy Development for Commercial Vehicle Operations — A presentation by Larry Minor, FMCSA Associate Administrator, Office of Policy, January 2020.
• FMCSA's Automated Vehicle Research — A presentation discussing Accelerating the Adoption of ADAS and ADS and the Automated CMV Evaluation Program by Nicole Michel, Automated CMV Evaluation Program Manager, FMCSA Research Division. January 2020.
• Safe Trucking is Good Business - Embrace Automation — Ways to make trucking safer were discussed in a recent meeting with the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board and the National Private Truck Council. In particular, it was suggested to companies to embrace automation including speed control, adaptive braking, stability control, and advanced driver-assist safety features, such as collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning. These are all currently available and make a big difference in mitigating driver mistakes. October 2019.
• Automated Vehicles & State Law Enforcement Summit — The Colorado State Patrol (CSP) partnered with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to host a summit on state law enforcement issues and autonomous vehicles. The intention of the conference was to bring stakeholders together to begin conversations related to the advancement of technology and how these changes impact the law enforcement environment. September 2019.
  • Pronto Autonomous Trucking - Capturing the Real Safety Potential of Automation — an updated presentation from Ognen Stojanovski, Chief Operating Officer, Pronto, presented at the SAE Government/Industry Meeting, January 2020.
  • U.S. DOT: Automated Vehicles 3.0: Preparing for the Future of Transportation — a presentation from Dee Williams, Deputy Director, NHTSA Office of Vehicle Safety Research
  • AAMVA: Guidelines for Safe Testing of Highly Automated Vehicles — a presentation from Brian Ursino, Director of Law Enforcement, AAMVA
  • State Governance of Autonomous Vehicle Technology - California Regulatory Experience — a presentation from Bernard Soriano, Deputy Director, California Department of Motor Vehicles and Chair of the AAMVA Autonomous Vehicle Working Group
  • Inspecting CMVs with Automated Driving Systems — a presentation from Will Schaefer, Director of Safety Programs, Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA)
  • Public Policy and Laws Regarding Autonomous Vehicles — a presentation from Doug Shinkle, Program Director, National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL)
  • Colorado Autonomous Mobility Task Force — a presentation from Ashley Nylen, Connected and Autonomous Technologies Program Manager, Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT)
• A Pathway to Secure Connections — USDOT is leading the way for research, design, and implementation of a security system for connected and automated vehicle networks. Summer 2019.
• Automated Vehicles' Effects on State Highway Safety Offices and Law Enforcement — A panel discussion about how automated vehicles (AVs) may affect law enforcement agencies and state highway safety offices is summarized in this report from the Governors' Highway Safety Association. The panel's charge was to discuss the most important issues and to provide recommendations on steps that they should take, in cooperation with other stakeholders involved with AV testing and deployment, to address these issues. August 2019.
• NHTSA, FMCSA Issue Pre-Rulemaking Proposals for Autonomous Vehicles — An article in Roads & Bridges magazine. June 2019.
• Safe Integration of Automated Driving Systems-Equipped Commercial Motor Vehicles — FMCSA Federal Register Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM), May 2019.
• Automated CMV Policy Development — A presentation by Larry Minor, FMCSA Associate Administrator for Policy. January 2019.
• FMCSA's Automated Vehicle Research Program Overview — A presentation by Jeff Loftus, FMCSA Division Chief, Technology Division. January 2019.
• Preparing for the Future of Transportation: Automated Vehicle (AV) 3.0 — AV 3.0 was developed through the input from a diverse set of stakeholder engagements throughout the Nation. It is structured around three key areas - advancing multi-modal safety, reducing policy uncertainty, and outlining a process for working with U.S. DOT. The U.S. DOT sees AV 3.0 as the beginning of a national discussion about the future of our on-road surface transportation system.
• Autonomous Maintenance Technology — A partnership between Colorado State University (CSU), the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), and others to support and promote collaborative research efforts in the field of autonomous technologies in work zone applications. One recent example is the first-of-its kind work zone vehicle designed to advance safety for roadway maintenance crews. Customarily positioned behind road construction crews in order to protect workers from the traveling public, the Autonomous Impact Protection Vehicle (AIPV) increases work zone safety by removing the driver from a truck that is actually designed to be hit. CDOT has provided its Validation Data Report and its Testing Information Packet that provide details regarding the testing of this vehicle in partnership with CSU.

Decriminalization of Marijuana

• FMCSA Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse - An online database providing employers and government agencies with real-time access to information about commercial drivers' drug and alcohol program violations.
• The American Trucking Association's Controlled Substances and Driver Health & Wellness Working Groups - The American Trucking Association's report discusses the increasing public support for marijuana legalization and emphasizes the need for more conversations about its impact on highway and workplace safety, advocating for public education, research, funding, and law enforcement training.
• Drug Impaired Driving: A Guide for States - The Governors Highway Safety Administration's guide offers comprehensive information on drug-impaired driving, including the prevalence of drugs among drivers, effects on driving ability, existing laws, enforcement strategies, and recommendations for states to address the issue.
• Preventative Medicine: Perceived Safety of Cannabis Intoxication Predicts Frequency of Driving While Intoxicated - This brief Preventative Medicine report covers recent advances in cannabis and cannabinoid regulation and drug approval, highlighting the increasing availability of these products despite their federal illegality.
• Developing a theoretical foundation to change road user behavior and improve traffic safety: Driving under the influence of cannabis (DUIC) – This Traffic Injury Prevention study examines the impact of cannabis legalization on motor vehicle crash rates, analyzing data from various states to assess changes in traffic safety outcomes.
• Challenges with Hemp Transportation — A recording of a presentation by Capt. John Hahn, Commander, Hazardous Materials Section, Colorado State Patrol. May 2021. View Slides.
• Legislative Changes and Other Issues Related to the Legalization of Marijuana — A recording of a presentation by Lt. Don Plowman, Commercial Enforcement MCSAP Commander, Nevada DPS-Highway Patrol. May 2021. View Slides.
• Marijuana Decriminalization Resources — News articles, research, editorials, presentations, and webinars provided by the University of Massachusetts Commercial Safety Technical Assistance Center to address the impact of marijuana decriminalization on the trucking industry.
• Drunk and High Behind the Wheel: Tackling the Growing Threat of Polysubstance-Impaired Driving — Polysubstance-impaired driving—driving after consuming a mix of drugs or a combination of drugs and alcohol—appears to be a growing threat to roadway safety. This presentation, as part of the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) Traffic Safety Online Meeting Series, discussed observed polysubstance-impaired driving trends, presented an overview of oral fluid testing laws and provided for small-group discussion on current state experiences and best practices. December 2020.
• Marijuana Use and Highway Safety — The U.S. Congressional Research Service has released a report that addresses various aspects of the issue of marijuana-impaired driving. It identifies patterns of marijuana use, the relationship and detection of marijuana use and driver impairment, and related state law and law enforcement challenges. May 2019.
• Marijuana Legalization and Impaired Driving: Solutions for Protecting our Roadways — This report explores the most promising methods for improving safety on our nation's highway by identifying and deterring marijuana-impaired driving. March 2019.Combating Impaired Big-Rig Drivers on the Roads: Utilizing Drug Recognition Experts in Commercial Motor Vehicle Operations — An article in Police Chief magazine. February 2019.
• Washington Perspective of the Decriminalization of Marijuana and its Impact on CMV — A presentation by Darrin Grondel, Director, Washington Traffic Safety Commission. November 2018.
  • NHTSA Sobriety Testing Resource Center and DRE Data System — The purpose of this site is to provide a comprehensive source of information regarding standardized field sobriety testing, training and certification for authorized and active law enforcement practitioners and instructors.
  • State Highway Safety Offices — Many State Highway Safety Offices are located within their state's Department of Transportation. Others are part of the Public Safety Department or other state agency. A few are independent offices with state government.
  • Drug-Impaired Driving Awareness — Foundation for Advancing Alcohol Responsibility efforts to combat drug-impaired driving.
  • Drug-Impaired Driving: A Guide for States — This guide synthesizes the current state of knowledge, drugged driving laws, and intervention strategies, April 2017.
  • AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety — A list of research and education regarding cannabis.
• The Culture of Driving Impaired: A Partnership Project — A presentation by Nic Ward, Professor, Montana State University. November 2018.
  • The Montana State University, Western Transportation Institute (WTI), and the Center for Health and Safety Culture — WTI advances the field of transportation and develops the next generation of professionals by conducting cutting-edge, multidisciplinary research. The Center is dedicated to applying research to develop sustainable solutions to complex social problems. Research focuses on understanding how culture impacts behavior – especially behavior associated with health and safety.

Distracted, Impaired, or Unsafe Driving

• Distracted Driving Toolkit - The International Association of Chiefs of Police provides a toolkit to assist law enforcement agencies in addressing and reducing distracted driving incidents.
• Distracted Driving CDL Enforcement for Prosecutors and Law Enforcement - The National District Attorneys Association offers resources focused on combating distracted driving among commercial driver's license holders.
• Strengthening Distracted Driving Education, Legislation and Enforcement - The American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators discusses strategies for educating the public, enacting legislation, and enforcing laws to combat distracted driving.
• Distracted Driving at Work - The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health provides information on the risks associated with distracted driving and offers recommendations for prevention.
• Driver Fatigue on the Job - The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health outlines the dangers of driver fatigue and suggests measures to prevent fatigue-related incidents.
• Mobile Phone Restrictions Fact Sheet - The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration details restrictions on mobile phone use for commercial motor vehicle drivers to enhance road safety.
• Distracted Driving Laws by State - The Governors Highway Safety Association provides an overview of state laws and policies aimed at reducing distracted driving across the United States.
• Defeat Distracted Driving - The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance highlights the dangers of distracted driving among commercial motor vehicle drivers and offers strategies for prevention.
• Distracted Driving Guidelines - The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration emphasizes the prohibitions and penalties associated with mobile phone use by commercial motor vehicle drivers to promote safer driving practices.
• International Association of Police Chiefs: Law Enforcement's Role in Distracted Driving  - A article from the International Association of Police Chiefs outlining the crucial role law enforcement plays in mitigating distracted driving through enforcement, education, and community engagement initiatives.
• High-Risk Behaviors of CDL Drivers in Maryland – Slides from a presentation by Kartik Kaushik of the University of Maryland School of Medicine on findings from an analysis of driver citations related to high-risk driving behaviors. November 2024.
• CMV Driver's Beliefs Regarding Risky Behaviors – Slides from a presentation by Jennifer Gazzillo of UMassSafe on the findings of a study analyzing CMV driver believes in relation to texting while driving, exceeding Hours-of-Service regulations, driving after consuming alcohol, and driving after consuming cannabis. November 2024.
• New Ways to Measure Driver Cellphone Use — New studies from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety suggest that roadside cameras and telematics data could provide a more complete picture of driver cellphone use. October 2023.
• Sharing the Road with Commercial Vehicles — In this report, the National Distracted Driving Coalition (NDDC) draws attention to the unique safety concerns that all drivers should keep in mind while sharing the road with large commercial vehicles, while also highlighting existing educational programs that can be integrated into employee training programs. September 2023.
• Psychological Factors of Changing Driver Behavior – A presentation by Bryan Porter of Old Dominion University outlining examples of psychological applications addressing roadway safety issues. October 2022.
• Self-Reported Incidence of Risky Driving in CMV Fleet Drivers – A presentation by Nic Ward of Leidos examining the role of emotional intelligence in addressing risky driving among CDL operators. October 2022.
• Contributing Factors in CMV-Involved Crashes – A presentation by Matt Camden of the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute on leading factors relevant to crashes involving commercial motor vehicles. October 2022.
• Zero Distractions Campaign — Founded by the National Tank Truck Carriers, the goal is to partner with other campaigns and organizations to build awareness for distracted driving while changing driver and passenger behavior through pledges to have zero distractions while driving.

FMCSA Rulemakings and Programs

• Highlights of Recent FMCSA Applied Research on Commercial Driver Safety and Health – A presentation by Jon Mueller of FMCSA on systematic studies conducted toward contributing to a safe and secure commercial transportation system. November 2024.
• Large Truck and Bus Crash Facts — A recurring annual report from FMCSA that contains descriptive statistics about fatal, injury, and property-damage-only crashes involving large trucks and buses.
• FMCSA Annual Analysis, Research, and Technology (ART) Forum Presentations — This annual event focuses primarily on the work being performed by FMCSA's Analysis, Research, and Technology divisions, with staff members presenting summaries of some of their most interesting and important projects.
• FMCSA Partnering with Universities through FMCSA Grants and the FMCSA Research & Technology Program — A recording of a presentation by Tom Keane, FMCSA Associate Administrator, Office of Research and Registration. May 2021. View Slides.
• Large Truck Crash Causal Factors Study — A recording of a presentation by Bill Bannister, Chief, FMCSA Analysis Division. May 2021. View Slides.
• Data Quality Efforts and the Use of FMCSA's A&I System — A recording of a presentation by Holly Skaar, Senior Research Analyst, Idaho State Police, Commercial Vehicle Safety Section, May 2021. View Slides.
• FMCSA Data Quality Program — A recording of a presentation by Scott Valentine, Data Quality Program Manager, FMCSA Analysis Division. May 2021. View Slides.
• Update on FMCSA Rulemakings and Programs — A recording of a presentation by Joe DeLorenzo, FMCSA Acting Associate Administrator, Office of Enforcement. May 2021. View Slides.
• CMV Safety Summit Keynote — A recording of a presentation by Meera Joshi, FMCSA Deputy Administrator. May 2021.
• FMCSA Grants Module — This centralized hub contains important tools and information for the Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program (MCSAP), High Priority, and Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Program Implementation grants. It supports MCSAP state partners and other grantees in the work they do on a daily basis, and includes multiple training courses that provide additional guidance and education to grantees and all those partnering with FMCSA to improve commercial motor vehicle safety across the country. June 2020.
• Webinar with Updates on FMCSA Rules and Programs — Representatives from the FMCSA Enforcement, Compliance, and CDL divisions provided updates on FMCSA rules and programs, including the newly implemented Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse. January 2020.
• FMCSA Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Program — The FMCSA CDL Division develops, administers, and implements policies, standards, procedures, and guidelines for the National CDL Program.
  • FMCSA Overview of Vehicles and Operations Requiring a CDL — FMCSA overview of the types of vehicles and operations requiring a commercial driver's license (CDL), including the CDL classes, Commercial Learner's Permits (CLP), endorsements, and restrictions. FMCSA has developed and issued standards for State testing and licensing of CDL holders. These standards require States to issue CDLs to certain CMV drivers only after the driver passes knowledge and skills tests administered by the State and related to the type of vehicle the driver expects to operate.
  • FMCSA Regulation Interpretations for Drivers — A list of the sections of regulations that have FMCSA interpretations available related to drivers. This includes guidance for Parts 382, 383, 384, and 390; and covers topics such as random testing, notification of convictions, disqualification, suspension, third party testing, endorsements, restrictions, and commercial learner's permits (CLP).
• FAST Act Rulemakings — FMCSA is working to implement the Fixing America's Surface Transportation Act (FAST Act). The Agency has identified nineteen statutory provisions in the FAST Act that require rulemaking. FMCSA also provides a list of rulemaking documents.
• FMCSA Analysis, Research, and Technology Projects — FMCSA's Office of Analysis, Research, and Technology provides data and statistics, and conducts studies to reduce CMV crashes.

Research and Partnerships between Government, Universities, and Industry

• Learning Safety: Free Safety Curriculums for CMV Drivers – A presentation by Jill Rybar of the University of California San Diego Transportation Research and Education for Driving on the various safe driving curriculums available to CMV drivers. November 2024.
• Innovative Approaches to Improve Seatbelt Use on Motor Coaches – A presentation by Michael Plotnikov of the UMass Transportation Center outlining effective campaigns for encouraging expanded seatbelt usage on buses. November 2024.
  
  • Advancing the Motorcoach Seatbelt Promotional Campaign on Charter Services in New England to Reduce Fatalities and Injury Severity - A current study conducted by the UMass Transportation Center examining the effectiveness of the motorcoach seatbelt promotional campaign. View the Year One Final Report here.
  • Doubling Down with Seatbelts - A Proven Technology: Reducing Fatalities and Injuries on Motorcoach Transportation - A previous study by the UMass Transportation Center, in collaboration with the Sara's Wish Foundation, to design and test a national motivational campaign to increase seatbelt use on motorcoaches.
• Enhancing Data Driven Enforcement Through Partnerships with Universities – Slides from a presentation by Robin Riessman of UMassSafe on the various ways university research can assist law enforcement to conduct more data-informed programming. November 2024.
• Data-Driven Programming: Using Analytics to Save Lives - Effective problem-solving begins with understanding when, where, and why incidents occur. The following collection of presentations by traffic operation managers and researchers examine the critical role of data systems in incident management, work zone planning, and crash prevention.
  • MassDOT Impact: Data Driven Analysis for Commercial Vehicles - Kylie Braunius, MassDOT Highway Safety Division. November 2024.
  • Connecticut CRASH: Commercial Vehicle Crash Data Tools - Eric Jackson, University of Connecticut Transportation Institute. November 2024.
  • Creating Safer Work Zones Using Advanced Traffic Management Systems - Michael Pack, Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission. November 2024.
• Large Truck Crash Reporting and MMUCC 5th Edition — A recording of a presentation by Amber Trueblood, Associate Research Scientist, Texas A&M Transportation Institute. May 2021. View Slides.
• A Comparison of Reported Risky Driving Behavior by Drivers with and without a CDL — A recording of a presentation by Nic Ward, Director, and Jubaer Ahmed, Graduate Research Assistant, Center for Health and Safety Culture, Montana State University. May 2021. View Slides.
• Assessing Truck Parking Needs Using Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Data — A recording of a presentation by Jolanda Prozzi, Senior Research Scientist, Texas A&M Transportation Institute. May 2021. View Slides.
• Connected Vehicle Training Framework and Lessons Learned to Improve Safety of Highway Patrol Troopers — A recording of a presentation by Sherif Gaweesh, Postdoctoral Research Associate, University of Wyoming. May 2021. View Slides.
• Truck Platooning Pilot Deployment on the I-10 Corridor — A recording of a presentation by Xiao-Yun Lu, Research Engineer, California Partners for Advanced Transportation Technology. May 2021. View Slides.
• Commercial Vehicle Safety Technical Assistance Center (CV-STAC) — Supports law enforcement, state drivers' licensing agencies, and universities within the FMCSA Eastern Service Center. The CV-STAC website highlights best practice information on safety countermeasures and current safety research findings.
  • Safety Culture Resources — News articles, research, editorials, and presentations provided by CV-STAC regarding safety culture. Safety culture encompasses the beliefs and practices of an organization. By establishing a proactive and intentional approach to safety, CMV stakeholders can better prevent crashes and reduce their severity when they occur.
• Southern Service Center Commercial Motor Vehicle Technical Assistance Center (SSC-TAC) — The SSC-TAC aims to increase support and communication concerning best practices in aspects of the commercial driver's license and commercial motor vehicle safety and compliance.
• NDSU-UGPTI Motor Carrier Research Projects List
• Commercial Driver Safety Risk Factors — This study conducted by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, Center for Truck and Bus Safety in partnership with FMCSA examined an array of driver and situational factors to determine their prevalence and relationship to crash or moving violation risk among CMV drivers. June 2020.
• CMV Driver Risk Based on Age and Driving Experience — In partnership with FMCSA and industry, this study determined the impact of age and CMV driving experience on crash rates, crash involvement, and moving violations. The results indicate that, while both age and CMV driving experience play a role in driver risk, CMV driving experience is more important than age when considering risk. April 2020.
  • Virginia Tech Transportation Institute (VTTI), National Surface Transportation Safety Center for Excellence (NSTSCE) — VTTI is continually advancing transportation through innovation and has affected public policy on national and international levels. NSTSCE develops and disseminates advanced transportation safety techniques and innovations in both rural and urban communities. VTTI and NSTSCE have a number of Commercial Vehicle Safety Reports, and also have a CMV Driving Safety website.
• Critical Issues in Trucking Workforce Development — Authored by the Center for International Trade and Transportation (CITT) at California State University, Long Beach, this paper identifies research opportunities focused on workforce development for the trucking industry, particularly regarding truck drivers and the truck driver shortage. April 2020.
• Addressing risky driving behaviors - Guidance on Messaging to Avoid Reactance and Address Moral Disengagement — Traditional messaging may not be as effective with the small minority of individuals still engaging in risky behaviors. This project conducted by the Center for Health and Safety Culture at Montana State University for the Montana Department of Transportation seeks to better understand if certain phenomena are more prevalent among individuals still engaging in risky behaviors and how messaging might be adjusted to mitigate these phenomena. February 2020.
• Heavy Truck Crash Tool to Aid State Agencies — Leveraging partnerships between the Iowa FMCSA Division, the Iowa Department of Transportation, the Iowa State Patrol, and the Iowa State University's Institute for Transportation, a tool was developed and is being used to help target enforcement efforts and crash countermeasures to reduce and prevent future heavy truck crashes. The web-based tool provides real-time analytics of crash events and causation data across the state. November 2019.
• Traffic Safety Culture: A Primer for Traffic Safety Practitioners — A primer and supporting toolkit for developing traffic safety culture prepared by the Center for Health and Safety Culture at Montana State University for the Montana Department of Transportation. August 2019.
• Effective Strategies to Improve Safety: Case Studies of Commercial Motor Carrier Safety Advancement — This study conducted by Virginia Tech Transportation Institute in partnership with FMCSA and industry identified strategies that CMV fleets have successfully used to improve their safety outcomes. April 2019.
• Evaluating the Safety Effectiveness of Downgrade Warning Signs — In a partnership between the Wyoming Department of Transportation and the University of Wyoming, this study developed truck crash prediction models. In addition to examining the presence of warning signs on steep grades, traffic and geometric factors were included in the analysis. The results showed that truck escape ramp, directional and speed combination, and hill combination warning signs are effective in reducing truck crashes on downgrades. February 2019.
• Identifying the Most Important Factors Associated with Severe CMV Crashes and Improving CMV Crash Reporting and Training of Law Enforcement Officers — A presentation by Eva Shipp, Research Scientist and Amber Trueblood, Assistant Research Scientist, Texas A&M Transportation Institute. November 2018.
  • Texas A&M Transportation Institute, Center for Transportation Safety — Committed to reducing the frequency and severity of roadway crashes through a program of innovative and multi-disciplinary research, education and outreach.
• Improving CMV Safety through Teen Peer-To-Peer Outreach — A presentation by Stacey Tisdale, Associate Transportation Researcher, Texas A&M Transportation Institute. November 2018.
  • Teens in the Driver Seat — The first peer-to-peer program for teens that focuses solely on traffic safety and addresses all major risks for this age group.
• Predicting Truck Crash Involvement — A presentation by Caroline Boris, Research Analyst, American Transportation Research Institute. November 2018.
  • American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) Safety Research — ATRI's primary mission is to conduct transportation research, with an emphasis on the trucking industry's essential role in a safe, efficient and viable transportation system.
• University and Law Enforcement Collaboration: Distracted Driving Education and a Tool to Assess for Cognitive Impairment — A presentation by D.R. "Ike" Iketani, Safety Consultant, California Highway Patrol (Retired) and Jill Rybar, MPH, Deputy Director, Training, Research and Education for Driving Safety (TREDS), University of California, San Diego. November 2018.
  • Training, Research and Education for Driving Safety (TREDS) — A major focus of TREDS is to prevent crash-related morbidity and mortality among older drivers. TREDS provides training and technical assistance to stakeholders to aid in the identification, assessment and referral of at-risk drivers. A second major focus is to reduce distracted driving behaviors.

Work Zone Safety

• National Work Zone Safety Information Clearinghouse – This page provides resources and insights on enhancing safety for large trucks in work zones, focusing on crash prevention and safe driving behaviors for commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in construction zones.
• FHWA CMV Safety in Work Zones – The page discusses strategies and guidelines to improve safety for commercial motor vehicles in work zones, including operational practices, infrastructure improvements, and education for truck drivers.
• FHWA Work Zone Management Program – This page highlights various work zone safety initiatives, tools, and best practices designed to reduce risks and fatalities in construction zones, with a special focus on commercial motor vehicle involvement.
• FHWA Work Zone Facts and Statistics – This page presents key statistics related to work zone traffic fatalities, including the rise in fatalities involving commercial motor vehicles, and emphasizes the need for improved safety measures in work zones.
• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration: Work Zone Safety Shareable Materials - This page offers downloadable resources and materials to promote safety awareness in work zones for both drivers and companies involved in transportation.
• Use of Real-Time Driver Alerts to Improve CMV Safety – A presentation by Julia McMillan of the University of California San Diego School of Public Health Transportation Research and Education for Driving on deployment of in-cab driver alerts alerting them to active work zones. November 2024.
• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration: Work Zone Safety Tips - This page provides essential safety tips for truckers and drivers to follow when navigating work zones, focusing on speed reduction, staying alert, and avoiding distractions.
• Compliance Navigation Specialists: Work Zone Safe Driving Guide for Truckers - This guide offers practical advice and safety strategies for truck drivers to help them stay safe while driving through work zones, including maintaining proper speed and being mindful of changing road conditions.
• Collaborative Efforts Toward Addressing Work Zone Safety – A presentation by Martha Kapitanov of the Federal Highway Administration highlighting engineering effective practices, queue warning systems, smart work zone technology, and other measures. October 2022.
• North Carolina CMV Alerts – A presentation by Kelly Wells of North Carolina DOT on utilizing Drivewyze to provide timely alerts to CMV drivers of upcoming work zones and restricted routes. October 2022.
• Technological Solutions to the Truck Crash Picture: Timely and Relevant Information – A presentation by Mark Savage of Intelligent Imagining Systems on connected truck networks, smart work zones and work zone notifications. October 2022.
• FHWA Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Safety in Work Zones — This Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) site contains information about CMV-involved fatal work zone crashes over the past 10 years, noteworthy practices, and resources. The site also provides links to the National Work Zone Safety Information Clearinghouse, the CMV Safety in Work Zones Targeted Action Plan, the Identification of National Work Zone Safety Objectives and Activities Report, and the Work Zone Traffic Management site.