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Intrastate Doesn’t Mean Exempt 🚛 What Texas Carriers Must Still Follow
Many intrastate carriers believe that staying within Texas means they’re exempt from DOT compliance. That’s not true. Even if you never cross state lines, you are still responsible for maintaining compliance in key areas — and violations can still impact your insurance, roadside inspections, and business operations. Here ’s what intrastate carriers must still have in place: ✔️ Driver Qualification Files (applications, MVRs, medical cards, annual reviews) ✔️ Drug & Alcohol t

Lisa Massello-Hodges
Feb 11 min read


🚨 “It Was Just a Warning”… Or Was It?
This is one of the most misunderstood DOT issues I see. There are two different systems at play: 🚓 Enforcement Side (State / Officer) A warning means: • No citation • No fine • No court appearance The officer is simply saying: 👉 “I’m not ticketing you today.” 📊 FMCSA / CSA Side (Completely Separate System) FMCSA does not care if it was a ticket or a warning. If a violation is: ✔️ Observed ✔️ Documented ✔️ Written on a roadside inspection ➡️ It counts against the carrier’s

Lisa Massello-Hodges
Jan 91 min read


🧑🏫 How to Coach Drivers Effectively
Most violations come down to habits — not intent. Coaching helps drivers understand how their daily actions connect to the company’s safety profile. Here’s how to make it work: Review CSA Data Monthly: Go over inspection results and patterns (e.g., same driver with repeated light violations). Hold “Learning, Not Blaming” Meetings: Focus on education instead of punishment — drivers respond better when they feel supported. Show Real Data: Use FMCSA’s SMS Portal or Motive Sa

Lisa Massello-Hodges
Oct 31, 20251 min read


🚛 Building Driver Awareness to Prevent Cargo TheftBy Your DOT Compliance Gal
Cargo theft prevention starts long before the load hits the road — it begins with driver awareness . While technology and tracking tools play a role, the most effective defense is a well-trained and alert driver. 🧭 Why Driver Awareness Matters Drivers are the eyes and ears of every operation. When they understand the risks — and how to respond — cargo theft incidents drop significantly. Many thefts occur during routine stops, overnight parking, or when documentation isn’t ve

Lisa Massello-Hodges
Oct 23, 20251 min read


🚛 FMCSA Proposes “Split Duty Period” Pilot Program – What It Could Mean for Drivers
Have you ever been stuck waiting at a dock, watching the clock tick away, knowing your 14-hour window is shrinking fast? That frustration...

Lisa Massello-Hodges
Oct 2, 20251 min read


Celebrating National Driver Appreciation Month 🚛💙
This September, we’re honoring National Driver Appreciation Month —a dedicated time to recognize the men and women behind the wheel who...

Lisa Massello-Hodges
Sep 12, 20251 min read


Prepare Your Commercial Vehicle for Brake Safety Week 2025 and Ensure Safe Travels
As summer draws to a close, the trucking industry prepares for a crucial event: Brake Safety Week from August 24 to 30, 2025. During this...

Lisa Massello-Hodges
Aug 15, 20253 min read


National Truck Driver Appreciation Week from September 15-21, 2025
Let’s Celebrate Our Road Heroes! 🚛❤️ At Your DOT Compliance Gal , we’re proud to honor the men and women who keep America moving— our...

Lisa Massello-Hodges
Aug 13, 20251 min read


Mark Your Calendar: Operation Safe Driver Week Is July 13–19, 2025
Operation Safe Driver Week is a nationwide safety enforcement and education campaign aimed at reducing risky driving behaviors among...

Lisa Massello-Hodges
Jul 16, 20252 min read


Brake Safety Week 2025 Is Coming—Are You Ready?
Following this year’s International Roadcheck and Operation Safe Driver Week, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) is gearing up...

Lisa Massello-Hodges
Jul 16, 20252 min read
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