Medical Examinations And FMCSA

The FEDERAL MOTOR CARRIER SAFETY ACT (FMSCA) requires drivers of commercial motor vehicles engaged in interstate commerce to have a medical examination performed by a medical provider authorized by the FMCSA.

The purpose of the medical examination is to screen for conditions which affect the ability of an operator of a Commercial Motor Vehicle to safely operate it. If the driver passes the exam, he or she is issued a Certificate that is good for two years.

This certificate cannot be issued if:

• The driver has lost a foot, leg hand or arm or has an impairment.
• The driver is an insulin dependent diabetic.
• The driver has been diagnosed with a heart attack angina pectoris, coronary insufficiency, thrombosis, or any other cardiovascular disease.
• The driver has a respiratory issue.
• The driver has hypertension.
• The driver has a diagnosis of  rheumatic, arthritic, orthopedic, muscular,neuromuscular, or vascular disease.
• The driver is epileptic or has a condition likely to cause the driver to lose consciousness.
• The driver has a mental disorder.
• The driver’s vision cannot be corrected to at least 20/40 in each eye, the driver’s field of vision is less than 70 degrees or the driver cannot recognize the colors of red, green and amber.
• The driver cannot have an issue with hearing loss.
• The driver uses an amphetamine, narcotic or habit forming drug.
• The driver is diagnosed with alcoholism.

Exemptions are available from medical practitioners in many of the above cases, and are addressed on a case by case basis.

Although a full certificate may not be granted for some of the above circumstances, one may be granted for a shorter time period so that monitoring could be increased, and terms and conditions can be attached to the certificate.

Even if the driver is not subject to FMCSA regulations, he or she may still be subject to state regulations. In Colorado, a commercial drivers license holder is also subject to passing a medical exam.

In either case, those who employ commercial drivers license holders must make sure that the drivers are medically fit to drive.

To maximize your options, you need the assistance of a risk management professional assist you in this aspect of your business. Our team has over 55 years of combined experience working with businesses that have extensive auto related risks with a focus on Garage and Garagekeepers risks, as well as the specific needs of auto dealers. Contact us so we can help you develop and implement your auto risk management plan.