What is FMCSA’s Crash Preventability Determine Program?
FMCSA’s Crash Preventability Determination Program (CPDP) allows motor carriers to challenge certain crashes classified as “not preventable” and prove they weren’t at fault.
For example, if your truck was parked legally and got hit, or if another driver caused a crash while you were following all the rules, you can submit the crash for review. If FMCSA agrees it wasn’t preventable, they’ll remove it from the data that impacts your Safety Measurement System (SMS) scores. This ensures your safety record reflects what’s really going on with your operations instead of being penalized for something you couldn’t control.
What are the new FMCSA’s Crash Preventability Determine Program rules in 2025?
The 2025 updates to the CPDP include:
- New eligible crash types: FMCSA is adding incidents like animal strikes, crashes caused by falling debris, or accidents caused by reckless drivers that can be submitted for review.
- Streamlined submission process: They’re making it easier to submit crashes for review through FMCSA’s DataQs upgraded online portal.
- Clearer and more consistent decisions: FMCSA wants to ensure that similar crashes are treated the same way across the board, so there’s less confusion or frustration for carriers.
These changes aim to reduce the burden on carriers and give everyone a fairer shot at keeping their safety scores accurate.
Which new crash types are eligible for review under the new CPDP guidelines?
The FMCSA has added several newly eligible crash types to the program in 2025. This means more carriers have the chance to challenge unfair crash classifications and have them removed from their record. Some of these new eligible crashes include:
- Animal strikes.
- Debris-related crashes.
- Rear-end collisions: If your truck is hit from behind while it’s stopped or parked legally.
- Crashes that are caused by reckless or illegal behavior.
- Medical emergencies of other drivers.
How does the FMCSA define a “not preventable” crash in the updated CPDP guidelines?
A “not preventable” crash is one where the carrier or driver couldn’t have done anything to avoid it. In the updated guidelines, FMCSA considers:
- Actions of the other party: Was the crash caused by someone else breaking the law or driving recklessly?
- Carrier compliance: Were you following all the rules, driving safely, and maintaining your truck properly?
- Surrounding factors: Was it a no-win scenario, like being hit while legally parked or struck by falling debris?
What kind of evidence or documentation needs to be submitted for review?
Strong evidence is the key to a successful review. Here’s what you should include:
- Police reports: Official crash reports that detail what happened and who was at fault.
- Dashcam footage: A video showing the crash and proving your actions were appropriate.
- Photos: Pictures of the crash scene, vehicle damage, and surrounding conditions.
- Witness statements: Accounts from people who saw the crash and can back up your claim.
- Maintenance and inspection records: Documentation proving your truck was in good working order.
How do the 2025 changes to the CPDP impact motor carriers’ Safety Measurement System (SMS) scores?
The changes directly affect SMS scores. When a crash is labeled as “not preventable,” it no longer counts against a carrier’s Crash Indicator BASIC score in the SMS. This means:
- You won’t be penalized for crashes you had no way of avoiding.
- Lower crash-related BASIC scores reduce the likelihood of FMCSA intervention and improve a carrier’s overall safety profile.
- Safety data on FMCSA’s SAFER system will better reflect a carrier’s true level of safety.
These updates make sure your scores reflect your actual safety performance—not accidents outside your control. Carriers can improve both their compliance scores and industry reputation.
How does the FMCSA’s updated CPDP help carriers improve their SAFER scores and DOT compliance?
The updated CPDP benefits carriers by:
- Better SAFER scores: Once preventable crashes are removed, your public safety data improves and is more accurate.
- Boosting reputation: A cleaner safety record improves a carrier’s public image with shippers, brokers, and regulators.
- Reduced scrutiny: Better scores mean a lower chance of being targeted for audits or interventions by the FMCSA.
Fundamental Labor Strategies helps our clients with driver staffing and with navigating changes within the industry. Contact us today at 215-862-7280 to discuss how we can help you.