What to Do During a DOT Stop

✅ Steps for the Driver During a DOT Stop

1. Pull Over Safely

• Find a safe location off the road, such as a rest area, wide shoulder, or designated inspection site.

• Use hazard lights when pulling over.

2. Stay Calm and Courteous

• Be respectful and cooperative.

• Provide identification and documents when requested.

• Avoid arguing, even if the stop seems unjustified.

3. Present Required Documentation

The officer may request the following:

• Driver’s license (CDL or regular, depending on truck weight)

• Medical card (if applicable)

• Vehicle registration

• Proof of insurance

• Bill of lading / shipping papers

• ELD (Electronic Logging Device) logs or paper logs

• Inspection reports (last 8 days)

• DOT number and MC number (if applicable)

4. Vehicle Inspection

If a vehicle inspection is initiated (Level I, II, or III), the officer may check:

• Brake system

• Tires, lights, wipers

• Emergency equipment (triangles, fire extinguisher)

• Seat belts

• Cargo securement

• Underride protection

5. Follow Directions

• Do what the officer instructs.

• If you're placed Out of Service (OOS) for violations (e.g. ELD, hours of service, mechanical issues), you cannot drive until the issue is resolved.

🧰 Post-Stop Actions for the Driver and Company

➤ 1. Notify Dispatch or Safety Manager

• Let your company know about the stop, especially if citations or violations were issued.

➤ 2. Document Everything

• Keep a copy of any inspection report, citation, or violation notice.

• Write down the officer's name, badge number, location, and reason for the stop.

➤ 3. Address Any Violations

• Fix mechanical issues ASAP.

• Schedule required follow-ups (e.g. re-inspection or court appearance).

• Consult your company's compliance team or a transportation attorney if serious violations are cited.

🚨 Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Failing to carry required documents (especially ELD logs or DOT registration).

• Arguing with the officer — it rarely ends well.

• Ignoring post-inspection reports — unaddressed violations can lead to fines or suspension of authority.

• Allowing unqualified drivers (no valid license or medical card).

📦 Box Truck Specific Notes

Even if it's a non-CDL box truck, DOT regulations may apply if:

• The GVWR is 10,001+ lbs

• The truck is used for interstate commerce

• You transport hazardous materials or operate under a USDOT number

These trucks are often subject to the same rules as semis, including hours-of-service rules, maintenance logs, and driver qualification files.

🛑 If You're a Fleet Manager:

• Conduct regular pre-trip inspections

• Perform mock DOT inspections

• Train drivers on how to behave during stops

• Keep your CSA scores clean to reduce roadside inspections