EDITORS AND CORRESPONDENTS:

On May 1, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) will increase the hours of its toll-free driver hotline ( 1-888-DOT-SAFT ) for reporting safety violations. The hotline will begin operating 24 hours per day, seven days a week, excluding Federal Holidays.

Drivers have the option of downloading the safety violation form, completing it and submitting it via either fax or mail. The form can be found on the agency's web page at

Drivers are assured of the confidentiality of their identity, and the agency will investigate reliable allegations of safety violations that have occurred within the preceding 60 days. Enforcement action will be taken, if necessary. Drivers are fully protected by law against being discharged, disciplined, or discriminated against regarding compensation, terms, or privileges of employment because of reporting of violations.

The extension of the hotline was prescribed in the Motor Carrier Safety Improvement Act of 1999. The expanded service provides greater access for drivers and should promote greater use of the system.

Further information is available from Ms. Nikki Fields at (202) 366-0831.

Sincerely yours,

Julie Anna Cirillo
Acting Deputy Administrator