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By default, every DOT‑reportable crash counts against your safety metrics unless you can prove the accident was not preventable and not your fault. Until then, it remains on your record—impacting your FMCSA scores, BASICs, and ultimately your ability to operate efficiently.
So how do you change that?
The FMCSA’s Crash Preventability Determination Program
The FMCSA created the Crash Preventability Determination Program (CPDP) to allow eligible accidents to be reviewed and, when appropriate, reclassified as “Not Preventable.”
When an accident qualifies and is approved:
It can be removed from your FMCSA scores
Your Out‑of‑Service risk and inspection exposure may decrease
Your overall safety profile becomes more accurate
The CPDP guide outlines specific accident types that may qualify, such as being struck while legally parked, rear‑ended, or hit by a wrong‑way driver.
The Hidden Risk of Doing Nothing
Leaving accidents on your record that shouldn’t be there can create bigger problems.
Unaddressed crash data may:
Trigger a Crash Indicator Score
Flag your operation for a Crash Score Audit
Invite deeper DOT scrutiny into logs, maintenance records, driver files, and safety procedures
These audits can be announced or unannounced, disrupting operations, increasing stress, and exposing you to potential fines or violations.
Why Your CAB Report Matters
When reviewing your CAB report, the accident section can be very telling.
Any crash not marked as “Not Preventable” deserves a second look. By comparing:
The police report narrative, and
The Crash Preventability Determination Program criteria
you can identify accidents that may qualify for review—but were never submitted.
The Missing Piece: Awareness and Follow‑Through
We regularly work with carriers who:
Aren’t aware the CPDP program exists, or
Don’t know how to properly submit requests through the DataQs portal
As a result, preventable‑looking crashes remain on record even when they shouldn’t.
How We Help
If you’re unsure whether your accidents qualify—or don’t want to navigate the process alone—we can help review your CAB report, identify potential submissions, and guide you through the DataQs process.
Because when it comes to safety scores, accurate data matters.
PS - Don’t forget out our safety services available to you! Contact us today to chat.
Online Training Courses (TrainingHub)
Employee Handbook & Training Program Review
DOT Violation Review & Appeals
DataQ Assistance for “Not Preventable” Accidents
Plaintiff Playbook Assessment
CAB Report Reviews
Claims Help
Safety Incentives & Driver Award Guidance
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