Understanding Your MVR
A Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) contains the driving history of an employee directly from the DMV. This report shows insights into the history of a driver and can reveal accidents, moving violations, convictions, and suspensions some drivers may not disclose during the hiring process. MVR checks can help ensure you hire qualified candidates with safe driving records.
MVRs & Safety
Performing regular scheduled MVR reviews can help maintain safety protocols and minimize risk. It will allow your company to address any concerns and if needed, put a corrective action plan into place. MVR reviews can also help you avoid negligent entrustment claims if an accident were to occur. As an employer, it demonstrates a commitment to hiring safe, trustworthy drivers.
Who Requires MVRs?
FMCSA
The FMCSA requires that carriers must maintain a motor vehicle record for each driver in their individual Driver Qualification File (DQF). Trucking companies that don’t keep track of MVRs or the applicable requirements risk getting penalized during DOT audits as well as random DOT inspections. This can negatively affect DOT scores. The DOT states, “the carrier must request each driver’s MVR every 12 months and must keep the record for three years.” Most compliance consultants suggest that you run monthly checks. Monitoring these records only once a year leaves you vulnerable to months of missed driving violations.
Insurance Companies
Insurance providers review MVRs to compare drivers to their specific guidelines. Driver guidelines list the minimum requirements a driver must meet for eligibility to be added to a policy. Drivers outside of these guidelines are subject to rejection of policy coverage, surcharges, or exclusions. Each provider’s guidelines differ from one another, but the categories in which they are judged remain consistent.
How Can Marquee Help?
As agents, we pre-approve drivers in some cases, using the same factors underwriters review such as the following:
- Driver's Age
- CDL Status
- Violations & Convictions
- The Suspension (Breaks in Experience)
- Medical Certificate Status
- Licensing State (To Business Location)
**Please note these are only some of the factors that go into determining a driver’s eligibility**
Marquee Insurance Group works on behalf of the insured when it comes to dealing with the insurance companies. Contact us today to learn more about understanding your MVR!
