Preparing for a ELD Roadside Inspection
The ELD mandate has been in effect since mid-December of 2017. As our drivers continue to familiarize themselves with using their ELDs, we would like to outline some important requirements during a roadside inspection.
A roadside inspection should go much quicker and be less stressful if you prepare ahead of time.
ELD Documents (these documents can be electronic) that must be located in the truck:
- ELD user’s manual
- Data transfer instruction sheet
- ELD malfunction instruction sheet and recording requirements
- Minimum of 8 day’s log sheets
Supporting Documents must be provided upon request
- Bills of lading
- Fuel receipts
Driver’s MUST Log into ELD
- Log into the ELD with driver’s proper identification data
- Input power unit # and trailer #
- Enter location if GPS cannot determine location
ELD Must be Mounted
- ELD must be mounted in a fixed position
- Must be visible from driver’s normal driving position
- ELD should NOT be in driver’s pocket or on the floor
ELD Logs Must be Certified/Signed
- Log should be certified by signing log immediately after the final required entry or correction for the day.
- Unsigned logs for several days can be a sign that drivers are leaving logs open for intentional changes.
- Frequent log editing may also be a signal of concern to an inspection agent.
- Make sure all edits or additions are noted with reasons for log edits.
- Logs must be recertified if edits are made by the driver or the carrier.
Unidentified Driving Events
- Driver should either accept or decline any unidentified driving events when logging into the ELD.
- Carrier must address any unassigned driving events.
- Unassigned events for the current day and 7 days prior are subject to review during an inspection.
Driver Notes
- ELDs capture data up to the minute so there’s no room for error. When situations come about, using the remarks section is a MUST.
- Making plans for breaks and delays must be part of a driver’s organizational abilities.
Know How to Present Data Requested
- Drivers must know how to print, transfer or display HOS data for the inspector.
- Once transferred to inspector, logs will be flagged for potential violations.
- Driver must report and ELD malfunctions to the carrier immediately or within 24 Hours.
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