DataQ Improvements

The Associate Advisory Committee requests that CVSA adopt a specific set of improvements to FMCSA's DataQs program.

Motor carriers' scores in the CSA Safety Measurement System are based on comparative performance (e.g., how their raw measures compare to other carriers with similar exposure). However, processes for addressing data correction requests vary from state to state. This impacts the validity of comparing a carrier from one state with those from others. As such, uniformity is needed. Also, improvements are necessary to ensure that data correction requests are addressed in a fair, appropriate and timely fashion in all states. Finally, CVSA and national industry trade associations must work together to discourage fleets from filing frivolous data correction requests.

CVSA and its industry partners should promote the following improvements to the DataQs program: 1. In the interest of uniformity, States should adhere to standard national processes (FMCSA best practices). 2. All states should be required to respond to DataQ requests in a timely fashion (most already do, of course) and be objective in reviewing requests. 3. FMCSA should monitor state performance in their management of DataQ requests, address variances, and make measurements of state performance publicly available to compel improvement. 4. FMCSA should develop a uniform appeals process so that motor carriers can request a higher level review of DataQ challenges denied by reviewers and state agencies. 5. FMCSA should evaluate options for providing additional funding to state agencies for management of their DataQs programs. 6. CVSA and national transportation trade associations should actively discourage fleets from filing frivolous requests. 7. CVSA should encourage states to implement DataQ review panels.