Are you a Motor Carrier looking for a dependable driver? Concerned about the applicant’s future performance behind the wheel of your tractor trailer? Reviewing a Motor Vehicle Record should be the first piece of information that you consider and review in the hiring process. A driver with a history of motor vehicle accidents and traffic violations is more likely to continue in that pattern. Statistical information shows that drivers with two or more vehicle accidents or traffic convictions in a three year period are at least 2 1/2 times more likely to have an accident than a driver with a clean record. Always question a clear MVR and review the years of experience behind the wheel, but understand that a bad driving record is generally an indication of poor driving habits.
Typical Violations indicated on a Motor Vehicle Report (MVR):
Major violations - Serious convictions which may indicate a disregard to public safety:
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Reckless driving
• Leaving the scene of an accident
• Speeding Conviction
Moving violations that may reflect poor driving habits:
• Failure to yield right-of-way
• Driving too fast for conditions
Statutory violations may reflect moral hazards and are generally licensing or registration offenses:
• Operating an unregistered vehicle
• Using false registration
• Driving under suspended license
How to use MVRs
A check on an applicant’s driving record should always be made. Hiring only drivers who have a clear
three-year record is difficult, yet this should be the goal in any driver selection program. Contact your agent for the qualification guidelines that your insurance carrier requires. Most insurance companies require that all drivers MVR’s be prescreened by the agent to confirm eligibility in the insurance program they provide. Careful review of the MVR controls the Motor Carriers exposure to liability, and reduces the risk in preventing potential losses to freight.
If it is not possible to hire an employee with a clear driving record then the number and types of violations, as well as the extent and type of driving involved, must be carefully evaluated to determine which applicants present the lowest driving risk. An applicant who’s MVR reflects a major violation such as “Driving Under the Influence” should be immediately disqualified. In evaluating other violations, recent history is more important than past history. The driver with two or three convictions three years ago, but with no recent convictions, is generally a better risk than the driver that has had convictions within the last twelve months.
Consider these factors in hiring within your business. As your agent, we provide MVR’s throughout the term of your policy to minimize your risk exposure. Consider this valuable service when selecting an agent to represent your trucking operation.