Improvements to the Safety Measurement System Methodology: Frequently Asked Questions

1-Q. Why has the Agency decided to update the SMS test methodology? Answer

2-Q. What refinements are being made to the SMS test methodology? Answer

3-Q. What modifications are being made to the measure of exposure for the Unsafe Driving BASIC and Crash Indicator? Answer

4-Q. What kind of refinements is FMCSA making to the measurement approach for the Controlled Substances/ Alcohol BASIC? Answer

5-Q. Should we expect to see any updates to the severity weights of roadside violations? Answer

6-Q. How is FMCSA addressing motor carriers with a history of size and weight violations? Answer

7-Q. When will more information be available and where can I get it? Answer

8-Q. Preliminary University of Michigan Transportation Institute (UMTRI) findings indicated that two of the seven BASICs, Driver Fitness and Cargo-Related, do not have a strong relationship to future crashes. Should these findings delay implementation of CSA 2010? Answer

9-Q. How can I prepare for the public launch of the SMS in December 2010? Answer