Company research tool (safestat)

[GMAN]

I am not sure that the small carriers are any worse than the major carriers. I suppose we will need to see the scores once the dust settles. I do know of some who have seen their safe stat scores change in recent months. It is supposed to be a non issue, but I can't help but wonder if the DOT would still use it as to whether to inspect a carrier or not. I don't understand why anyone who has an OOS would continue getting violations for the same thing over and over again. If there is a problem it is better to get it taken care of and work to see that the same thing doesn't happen again. Those who continue to have violations will likely find it more difficult to find decent insurance rates and will be more apt to be targeted for future inspections. At some point I would expect them to find it difficult to find loads from some brokers and shippers due to their safety record.

[chris1]

At least from my experience there are more problems with 1 truck carriers than larger ones. We do have quite a few 1 truck people that do an excellent job but you go through many bad ones to get the one good. As a policy we don't use anyone with no inspections or above average OOS.
I wasn't talking about OOS but the other write ups on inspections. That will change with CSA2010.

[GMAN]

I thought you ran your own trucks. Are you brokering freight now?

[chris1]

I've always ran my own and brokered.

[charged]

Those who continue to have violations will likely find it more difficult to find decent insurance rates and will be more apt to be targeted for future inspections. At some point I would expect them to find it difficult to find loads from some brokers and shippers due to their safety record.

My dad doesn't seem to have a problem. He obtained his current insurance when he was rated poorly. He has never been turned down from a load.

[chris1]

As more brokers are being included in civil actions against carriers they are more likely to demand better carrier qualifications.

[GMAN]

The only instance that I can recall where a broker has been included in civil actions against carriers is CH Robinson. Lawyers are going after the deep pockets. Some of these large brokers have deeper pockets than carriers. There are a few brokers who won't do business with new carriers until they have been in business for a certain amount of time.

[chris1]

There are quite a few cases of this. The only reason you heard about CH was dollar amount and their name. When something happens you include everyone involved. If they can prove negligence in your hiring practice you're liable also.
Far easier to have higher standards and limit the liability.

[GMAN]

Perhaps brokers should change the wording in their contract where they are not "agents of the carrier." What type of litigation are you all getting involved? Negligence? Breach of contract?

[chris1]

Wouldn't matter how you word the contract. It's negligent hiring practices. Anyone who arranges and approves the carrier is liable. Includes shippers and third party buyers if they arrange for the truck.