At AllSteps Insurance, we review the latest FMCSA and industry reports to ensure your policy adapts to—and covers—these operational and legal shifts.

1. Wilson Logistics’ Waiver Request: A New Standard for Training?

• Wilson Logistics (CCJ Top 250, No. 185) has requested an extension of its waiver allowing pre-CDL drivers (who have passed their skills test but haven’t obtained their physical CDL) to operate as a team without a CDL holder in the front seat.

  What This Means for Your Fleet:

  • Training Innovation: If FMCSA approves this extension (and expands it to more fleets), it could streamline the process of quickly incorporating qualified drivers into your operations.

  • Insurance Implications: Your liability and physical damage insurance must be meticulous. Team driving with a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) holder presents unique risk nuances.

    • AllSteps Action: We work to ensure that, under any operational exemption you adopt, your policy adequately reflects and covers the roles and experience levels of your drivers.

  Key Note: Current regulation requires CLP holders to be accompanied by a valid CDL holder physically present in the front seat. Staying informed on the approval or denial of this waiver is critical for both training and coverage.

2. DOT Medical Exam Fraud: A Severe Compliance Risk

• The recent indictment of a former FMCSA-certified medical examiner for falsifying DOT physical exams highlights the pressure—and occasional corruption—in the certification process.

  Direct Impact on Your Operation and Insurance:

  • Legal and Safety Risk: Having a driver with a disqualifying medical condition operating with a fraudulent certificate is not only a public safety risk but a huge compliance red flag.

  • Claims Repercussions: In the event of a severe accident, insurers rigorously investigate regulatory compliance. If a driver is found to have operated with a fraudulent or inadequate DOT certificate, your claim could be compromised, and you may face significant legal liability.

  • Our Recommendation: Only use reputable, certified medical examiners. The integrity of your compliance documentation is as important as the integrity of your vehicles.

3. Recognizing Excellence: NTTC Names Driver of the Year Finalists

• We congratulate the eight NTTC finalists, including drivers from SWTO and Kenan Advantage Group (CCJ Top 250, No. 17). Their excellence in safety and professionalism sets the industry standard.

  • The Insurance Link: Investing in safety-first drivers (like these finalists) directly translates into fewer incidents, lower insurance premiums, and a better fleet reputation.

Safety and Compliance Define 2026

As 2025 comes to a close, this week’s news reminds us that managing risk in trucking is dynamic. The key to your Texas fleet’s profitability and longevity is adaptability and rigorous compliance.

Is your policy ready to reflect the changing realities of the FMCSA and protect you from increasing compliance risks?

Contact your AllSteps Insurance fleet expert today to review your coverage and ensure your operation is ready for a successful 2026.