If you’re a trucking business, you’re likely familiar with the Safety Measurement System (SMS) and the BASICs. But what if there’s some data in the SMS that needs to be changed? It could happen. There might be an occasion where you want to have SMS data reviewed. Fortunately, the FMCSA has a protocol for such a scenario. They’ve got it covered with a thing called DataQs. Here’s how that works.
How to request a review of SMS data.
As we mentioned, the FMCSA has a way to deal with the inevitable data reviews that need to be done. A request for a data review can go through DataQs, which is a filing system for motor carriers, drivers, and the public. It’s easy to file an RDR, or request for a data review. Here’s how that entire process works. (No, it’s not as complicated as it sounds!)
1. Register for DataQs or the FMCSA Portal.
First things first. You’ve got to be registered for DataQs or FMCSA Portal. That’s the first thing that needs to be done in the filing a request for data review process. Once that’s taken care of, you’ll be on your way.
2. Check the instructions for filing an RDR.
There should be instructions for filing a request for data review. The next step is, well, to follow the instructions. The instructions should include the simple forms necessary. There should also be a way to submit info like the reporter number, the date and time of the event, the State, and the explanation, if necessary. It should also allow for supporting documentation. The point is the following the instructions is kind of the most important step.
3. The RDR gets sent where it needs to go.
Then the request for data review gets sent on its merry way. It gets directed to the organization that is responsible for the data. From there, electronic communication is used to be in touch with the entity requesting the review. Remember, the DataQs website is open to the public. It has an online function that offers help to guide people through the process.
What about registration information?
But what if a motor carrier needs to update their registration information? That’s a different scenario. A motor carrier can change their registration information – for example, their name, address, or Power Units – by submitting an updated MCS-150. That’s a bit of a relief, right?
And that’s how requesting a review of data in the SMS works! It’s not too tricky. DataQs is really helpful, so it’s not a bad idea to familiarize yourself with it.
Get truck insurance quotes.
If you have a trucking business, it’s really important to have the right truck insurance to protect your company. It’s essential to have the proper coverage. Now, you might be apprehensive about the cost of that truck insurance, but that’s where our team can help. We love to make insurance easy and we love to help businesses save money on truck insurance. Get started with your quotes by filling out our online form, giving us a call, or messaging us on LiveChat.
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