The Importance of Ongoing MVR Monitoring for Trucking Companies

The trucking industry faces numerous risks, from economic fluctuations to regulatory changes. While some challenges are beyond a carrier’s control, others—such as driver safety and compliance—can be proactively managed. One of the most effective ways to minimize risk is through ongoing Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) monitoring.

MVR monitoring helps carriers identify driver violations, disqualifications, and license status changes in real-time. While federal regulations require MVR checks only once a year, relying on an annual review alone leaves carriers exposed to significant liability. By implementing a continuous monitoring system, carriers can reduce accidents, lower insurance costs, and improve overall fleet safety.

Why Annual MVR Checks Are Not Enough

Under current regulations, carriers are required to check a driver’s MVR only once a year after the initial pre-employment screening. However, a lot can happen in 365 days. Drivers may:

• Accumulate traffic violations
• Have their CDL suspended or revoked
• Be involved in accidents that go unreported
• Fail to disclose warnings, violations, or administrative suspensions

According to the American Transportation Research Institute’s (ATRI) 2022 Crash Predictor Study, certain MVR violations significantly increase the risk of accidents. Some of the riskiest violations include:

🚛 Failure to Yield Right-of-Way → 141% risk increase
🚛 Failure to Use/Improper Signal → 116% risk increase
🚛 Past Crash History → 113% risk increase
🚛 Reckless Driving → 104% risk increase
🚛 Failure to Obey Traffic Signs → 85% risk increase

If a driver with unaddressed MVR violations is involved in a crash, the carrier may face negligent supervision claims—potentially leading to costly lawsuits and massive financial losses.

The Benefits of Ongoing MVR Monitoring

By implementing real-time MVR monitoring, trucking companies can detect driver violations much earlier and take corrective action before issues escalate. Some of the key benefits include:

✅ Reduced Liability – Proactively identifying unsafe drivers lowers the risk of negligence claims in case of an accident.
✅ Lower Insurance Costs – Many insurers offer discounts for frequent MVR checks, improving a carrier’s risk profile.
✅ Improved Driver Retention – Early intervention allows companies to offer coaching and remedial training before termination becomes necessary.
✅ Enhanced Safety – Regular monitoring helps carriers promote safer driving habits, leading to fewer accidents and DOT violations.
✅ Automated Compliance Management – Using third-party systems streamlines the process of tracking and updating MVRs, saving time and administrative costs.

How Carriers Can Implement Ongoing MVR Monitoring

Carriers have two primary options for enhanced MVR monitoring:

1️⃣ Internal Monitoring Programs – Companies can manually check MVRs at regular intervals (e.g., quarterly or semi-annually). However, this approach requires significant administrative effort.

2️⃣ Third-Party Monitoring Services – Automated systems, such as J. J. Keller’s Encompass® Fleet Safety & Compliance System, provide real-time updates on driver MVRs. These platforms offer features such as:

• Instant notifications for expired medical certifications, CDL suspensions, or points accumulation.
• Customizable alerts for potential high-risk drivers.
• Automated record-keeping for compliance documentation.
• Integration with other fleet safety tools, such as driver training and telematics data.

The Future of Fleet Safety: A Proactive Approach

As technology advances, real-time MVR monitoring will become the industry standard. Companies that embrace continuous monitoring today will be better positioned to:

✅ Build safer, more efficient fleets
✅ Reduce accidents and compliance violations
✅ Lower operational and insurance costs
✅ Strengthen their reputation for safety and reliability

By moving beyond the minimum annual MVR check, carriers can protect their business, their drivers, and the public. The initial investment in frequent monitoring pays off through improved safety, reduced liability, and long-term operational success.

The future of fleet management is not just about reacting to incidents—it’s about predicting and preventing them.