LOUISVILLE, Ky. In a presentation here, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration roadside safety inspector Carlos Saucedo named key problem areas for drivers, fleets and owners.

According to Saucedo, the top five driver violations are:

Logbook issues either not current or signed or otherwise incomplete

Drivers record of duty status isnt current

Driver isnt in possession of a medical certificate

Driver doesnt speak English

Fleet requires or permits driver to drive beyond hours-of-service limits

He said the top out-of-service violations include the carrier requires or allows driver to drive longer than hours-of-service rules allow, false reports of driver record of duty status, no record of duty status, and driver fails to retain logs for previous seven days.

Saucedo also identified the top vehicle violations:

No or defective lighting devices or reflective material, as required

Required lamps are inoperative

Tire tread depth of less than 2/32nds-inch

Inspection or repair and maintenance of parts and accessories

Oil or grease leaks

The top vehicle out-of-service violations are:

Inoperative turn signals

Flat tire or exposed fabric

Inspection or repair and maintenance of parts and accessories

Inadequate brake tubing and hoses

Stop lamp violations

Saucedo provided a handful of pointers for passing roadside inspections, including being prepared; having a valid CDL and medical card; keeping current logs; driving within allowed hours of service; wearing a seatbelt; knowing the critical vehicle inspection items; having a professional attitude; keeping in mind BLT brakes, lighting and tires, and asking questions.

Saucedo said the critical vehicle inspection items are:

Fuel system

Brakes

Lighting devices

Steer mechanism

Suspension

Frame and body components

Tires and wheels

Windshield wipers

Rear view mirrors

Horn

Exhaust

Emergency equipment