Ohio - New Safety Rules for Non‐CDL Vehicles

[Kiowa Scout]

Hey guys, I'm in the same boat you are. Having loads of fun
dealing with getting compliant, but on a little different scale.

I own and operate a small excavating business in Boardman.
In the last two months I've dumped a small fortune in my Ford 650 dump
and trailer. New tires, fire extinguisher, triangles ect, ect, ect.

Each week I get a little closer. My next steps are class B to a class A CDL.
Get my self wizz tested and get the 650 and trailer inspected.

I just stickered up the the truck last week. I hope it keeps the man at bay
untill I get 100% up.

[HISnHERS]

Looks like the state has decided to delay enforcement of the new standards until Jan 1, 2012. Maybe they will work to further clarify the issue or give folks more time to become aware of the rules.

Here is a link to the PUCO docket record that indicates that enforcement of the rules has been delayed. (Dated 11/22/10)

http://dis.puc.state.oh.us/CaseRecor...?CaseNo=09-223

[John from OH]

Let's not get to excited by the "reprieve". It appears to be a delay of the fines only. The second line in following got my attention and I think it may be a real eye opener.

"Fines will not be assessed on roadside safety inspections until January 1, 2012, unless egregious violations are discovered. However, vehicles and drivers found not to be in compliance can be declared out-of-service."

This could be interpreted by the DOT/PUCO as any vehicle that hasn't had it's yearly inspection could be put out of service. The same could apply to any driver that doesn't have a medical card or is over hours of service during snow storms. I have asked for clarification on DOT's intentions. I know several trade associations as well as several legislatures were pressuring PUCO to delay implementation and for PUCO to review and clarify some of the regulations. As soon as I get an answer, I will post it.

One thing for sure, don't trust government, they are on a dollar hunt, and they think we have the dollars. Watch OSHA's next moves as well. Fines are going through the roof. Remember, Ohio has a projected budget deficit of $8 billion and they need revenue to cover it. Write your representatives and get involved.

[Kiowa Scout]

John, I agree with you. I'm not going to relax until I get everything done that I can.

I know a bunch of guys who aren't taking this seriously. That's up to them...
I don't need that "Oh shat" feeling every time I see a trooper.

The new governor promised to be more business friendly for Ohio. We need to hold his feet to the fire.