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Motor Carrier Identification

Identification Process:
The information for the motor carrier responsible for the trip on which the crash occurs should be recorded on the crash report. This may or may not be the company on the vehicle door or trailer. In order to determine the carrier responsible and locate that carrier's information it is important to utilize all the sources of information available. A procedural approach to accurately obtaining the information should include the following sources.

  1. Examination of the side of the vehicle. (See Below)
  2. Interview of the driver. (See Below)
  3. Examination of the shipping papers or bus manifest for this trip can provide the name of the motor carrier responsible for the load, but is not a good source for the USDOT#.
Information on vehicle side
Do not stop
The vehicle side is good in most cases to properly identify the carrier name and number. However, DON"T STOP with the side of the vehicle, it may or may not be the responsible carrier for this load.
Interviewing a driver Ask the driver:
Is the vehicle leased?
Who is the motor carrier responsible?
Who is directing the movement of this vehicle and its load?
Where is the carrier's principal place of business?