Ensuring that your vehicle has the proper commercial vehicle emergency equipment is essential to staying compliant and safe on the road.
If you drive through Roseville, CA, or anywhere else, these requirements can save you from costly penalties and dangerous situations.
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR) Part 393.95
Under FMCSR Part 393.95, all commercial vehicles transporting hazardous materials (HM) must carry a fire extinguisher with an Underwriters' Laboratories (UL) rating of at least 10-B/C. For other commercial motor vehicles (CMVs), a fire extinguisher rated at 5-B/C or two with a 4-B/C rating is required.
Fire extinguishers must have clearly visible manufacturer markings or ratings and be designed so anyone can visually inspect them to confirm they are fully charged. They must also be mounted securely to prevent movement.
The fire extinguishers must meet Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) toxicity standards, although this rule does not apply to trucks in driveaway-towaway operations.
Additional Commercial Vehicle Emergency Equipment
Every commercial vehicle is required to carry at least one emergency fuse replacement for each size required.
It's also a requirement to have a few extra light bulbs on hand for emergency replacements while on the road.
In addition, vehicles must have warning devices such as three reflective triangles that are visible from each direction, and six fusee flares or three liquid-burning flares.
Certain warning devices, such as fusees and liquid-burning flares, are prohibited for vehicles carrying hazardous materials (HM), including explosives or those using LPG.
Fusees must have a minimum burn time of 30 minutes—while liquid-burning flares should burn for at least an hour.
Red flags must be at least one foot square, and the standards must be strong enough to hold them upright.
Items Not Legally Required but Helpful to Have
While not legally mandated for commercial drivers, having extra emergency supplies is always a good idea.
A pillow, sleeping bag, personal hygiene kit, gloves, flashlight, raincoat and boots, and a dashboard mounted cellphone within the driver’s reach can make long hauls more manageable.
Non-perishable bottled water and non-perishable snacks are great for emergencies.
Crocs or flip-flops can help prevent nasty foot infections in truck stop showers.
You never know when you will face a breakdown in an isolated area, so having these items ensures a more comfortable and safer experience. It is also wise to carry an emergency bathroom kit—you’ll appreciate it if you’re ever stuck in bad weather.
Commercial Vehicle Emergency Equipment and the DVIR
When completing your Daily Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR), be sure to include all required commercial vehicle emergency equipment on your checklist. Even if you're the only one driving the vehicle, someone else might have borrowed your fire extinguisher or fuses.
Failing to have this equipment can lead to penalties. You could receive four CSA severity points for not having a completed DVIR, two for failure to inspect, and additional points for each missing or faulty piece of equipment.
“The FMCSA describes ISS as a system ‘used at roadside inspection stations to help inspectors identify and prioritize motor carriers for safety inspections.’Similar to CSA, its purpose is to target carriers with compliance problems and put them through additional inspections to identify additional gaps.”—Drivewyze.
If you are cited for missing or improper equipment, it’s wise to seek legal assistance.
Why Hire a Traffic Attorney in Roseville, CA
Hiring a traffic attorney can make a significant difference if you're a commercial driver facing a citation for lacking commercial vehicle emergency equipment or to resolve most traffic tickets.
A knowledgeable lawyer can represent you in court, helping to reduce fines or get your ticket dismissed. This can protect your commercial driver’s license (CDL), prevent sanctions from fleet management, and safeguard your job.
Taking time off to attend traffic court is often not an option for CDL holders, but an attorney can appear on your behalf, saving you time and the hassle of turning down a load to attend. Their familiarity with traffic courts can lead to better outcomes, ensuring you stay on the road and avoid penalties.
Staying compliant with commercial vehicle emergency equipment regulations is critical for safety and avoiding fines, but if you do face a violation, a traffic attorney can help protect your driving record.
Consult Bigger & Harman, APC, Today
If you have a citation for not having the required commercial vehicle emergency equipment pending in Roseville Courthouse, call the Bigger & Harman Traffic Defense Team at (661) 349-9300—Se habla Español 349-9755.
Email: attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
Use our convenient contact form to schedule an appointment for a no-cost, no-obligation consultation today.
References:
The DMV Portal CA Commercial Driver Handbook.