Hello ensnidix, you are correct for the most part, as our set-up is on the more extreme end, though you are seeing more large set-ups and more branding. It is definitely the trend now. We are just sharing our experience for those that may be considering going that direction and making it clear that it isn't exclusive to a set-up like ours. If someone fits the listed criteria, then they can be stopped and be subject to the laws/rules should a Federal DOT officer make the stop. The issue may be if they are stopped by Highway Patrol or worse, in an accident, and that officer calls in Federal DOT. The exposure can and most likely is much larger than people think, regardless of how minimal of a target one may think themselves to be. Just because it hasn't happened to someone, doesn't mean it can't or it won't. Hopefully, it doesn't! But, for those with a business, for those selling products or building a brand, if they were to have an accident or issue and they chose not to follow the laws/rules, they are opening themselves to a lot of financial and legal exposure, based on what we have learned. Just trying to share that knowledge to those that may be unaware. Best wishes!
Hello Burnt at Both Endz, you also need a drug test and you have to join a consortium for that, at least we did here. Here is the Federal website, https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/. You also need to consult the agency responsible in your state. For us in Ohio, it is the PUCO, and they have their own handbook. Best wishes!
Hello nachos4life, that may be the case in Indiana for intrastate vs. interstate. Those are regulated differently. Be sure to check directly with the agency in your state responsible for enforcement. In Ohio, it's the PUCO. They will ask you the right questions and tell you where you fall and what you should have in place. Best wishes!
Hey backdraftbbq, that may be likely, but the possibility exists, so it depends on your risk tolerance. When we asked, "what if we just remove the wrap and branding, are we exempt then?" The gentleman from the Ohio PUCO, agency responsible for Federal DOT enforcement in Ohio, said, "you have to look at from a liability standpoint. if you are in an accident or cause an incident, and you don't have the proper things in place, you are opening yourself to legal and financial liability." For us, as a growing business and brand, it was an easy decision to follow the laws/rules. Just to be clear, not here to try to scare anyone or say you have to do this. I am just sharing our experience and what we have learned and wish we would have educated ourselves on from the jump. Best wishes.
, and we are just trying to protect the public"....It sucks, and can cost you big in fines and convenience. Just know the rules and regulations so that you can protect yourself.......
