March 21, 2023 - BY EagleLogistics LLC
Riding in a commercial truck can be an exciting and rewarding experience for both the driver and the passenger. However, it's important to understand that there are certain regulations regarding who is allowed to ride inside the vehicle. The U.S Department of Transportation (USDOT) has established rules and guidelines that must be followed in order for a person to legally join as a passenger in a commercial vehicle. In this article, we'll discuss rider policies for truck drivers and answer some basic questions such as what documents are required, if children can ride along, DOT rule 392.60, waivers of liability, and more.
What is a Rider Policy?
A rider policy is a set of guidelines that commercial truck drivers must follow in order to legally have passengers with them. The USDOT has specific regulations regarding who can ride along, and what kind of documentation they must have with them. These regulations are designed to ensure safety, and reduce the chances of accident/injury due to an unqualified passenger.
What Documents Are Required?
In order to be allowed as a passenger in a commercial vehicle, the driver must have certain documents available. The USDOT requires that all drivers keep the following documents on board while operating the truck:
1. A valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
2. Proof of Medical Examinations (DOT physical)
3. The driver’s Motor Carrier Safety Authorization Certificate
4. The USDOT registration number for the vehicle, as well as proof that the driver has liability insurance coverage
In addition, passengers are also required to carry certain documentation with them:
1. A valid photo ID card or driver’s license
2. Proof of age and/or proof that they are legally allowed to join as a passenger in the vehicle
3. A signed waiver of liability from the truck driver, if applicable (more on this later)
DOT Rule 392.60
The USDOT also has a specific rule regarding passengers, known as USDOT Rule 392.60. This rule states that all drivers must not allow more than one passenger in the truck at any given time, unless an exception is provided by the motor carrier. Furthermore, it states that no person under 18 years old is allowed to ride in a commercial vehicle, unless the motor carrier has given permission and appropriate documentation is provided.
Passenger Waivers
In some cases, truck drivers may be required to have passengers sign a waiver of liability before they're allowed to ride in the vehicle. It basically states that they acknowledge that there are certain risks associated with riding in a commercial truck, and they agree to not hold the driver and/or motor carrier responsible for any damages, injuries, or other losses that may occur during the course of the trip.
Can Children Ride in a Commercial Truck?
As mentioned before, USDOT Rule 392.60 states that no person under 18 years old is allowed to ride in a commercial vehicle unless an exception is provided by the motor carrier. Therefore, it's important to check with the carrier before allowing any child to ride as a passenger.
Conclusion
In order to ensure that all passengers are safe, it's important to understand that there are certain rules that must be followed. These rules include:
Having the required documents on board
Understanding and complying with DOT Rule 392.60
If necessary, have passengers sign waivers of liability
Ensuring that no one under 18 is allowed in the vehicle without a motor carrier’s permission
By following these guidelines, drivers can virtually guarantee an enjoyable and safe ride for both driver and passenger.
At Eagle Logistics, we're a long-standing provider of reliable, safe, and economical trucking services. We understand the extreme importance of regulations and safety measures and we ensure that our drivers are up to date on their CDLs and medical examinations.
Our state-of-the-art fleet is also professionally maintained and regularly inspected to provide the best ride possible and all of our trucks have liability insurance coverage.
If you're looking for a trucking company you can depend on to keep you in compliance AND that you'll enjoy working at, contact us today for more information!