Reporting a truck driver—whether it’s for dangerous driving, violation of company policies, or misconduct—depends on the severity of the issue and the appropriate authority to handle it. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide:
🚨 1. Assess the Situation
First, determine what kind of behavior you’re reporting:
- Dangerous/reckless driving (speeding, tailgating, weaving through traffic)
- Violation of traffic laws (running red lights, illegal parking)
- Driver misconduct (aggression, road rage, inappropriate behavior)
- Logistics or regulation issues (overweight load, unsecured cargo)
- Suspected DUI (Driving Under Influence)
📝 2. Gather Key Information
Write down as much of the following as possible:
- Truck’s license plate number
- Company name on the truck
- USDOT number (usually printed on the side of the truck)
- Location, time, and date of the incident
- Description of the truck (color, trailer type, markings)
- What exactly happened (with specifics)
- Photos or dashcam footage, if available
📞 3. Report to the Trucking Company (if applicable)
Most trucking companies have numbers listed on the truck, such as “How’s my driving? Call…”
- Call the number and provide your report.
- Be calm and professional—companies take public reports seriously.
- You can also check the company website for a customer service or safety department email.
👮♂️ 4. Report to Law Enforcement
If the behavior poses immediate danger:
- Call 911: If it’s an emergency or you believe lives are at risk.
- Non-emergency police line: For reporting less urgent behavior.
Tell the dispatcher the details you collected. They might dispatch officers or log it for follow-up.
🏛 5. Report to the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration)
If you’re in the U.S. and it involves a commercial truck:
- Visit: FMCSA National Consumer Complaint Database (NCCDB)
- You can report issues like:
- Unsafe driving
- Hours of service violations (e.g., drowsy driving)
- Drug or alcohol use
- Vehicle maintenance violations
You can report anonymously, and they do investigate serious complaints.
🌍 6. Outside the U.S.?
Every country has its own regulations. For example:
- UK: Report to DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) or police.
- Canada: Contact CVSE (Commercial Vehicle Safety and Enforcement) or RCMP/local police.
✅ Tips for Effective Reporting:
- Be factual and objective—avoid emotional language.
- Include timestamps and location details.
- Share evidence if you have it (videos/photos).
- Follow up if you feel the issue is severe.
