QuestionHi, I drive for a small company with 20 trucks. The registration on the entire fleet expired in May, and judging by the answers I'm getting when I speak with the owner and the ladies in the office, there's no telling when (or if) we'll be getting it, anytime soon.
We do still have valid insurance cards, and a valid IFTA license. The safety manager in the office claims that if we were to be stopped, or DOT'd, and found to be driving with an expired truck registration, the typical procedure would be for the officer to write us a citation and/or require us to purchase a temporary trip permit, valid in that state only.
However, I have also been told by other drivers, that if we get caught with an expired registration, the truck will be impounded and we'll have to "pack our bags and start walking". I know that other truck drivers aren't the paragons of knowledge they often think they are, which is why I am seeking the TRUTH from someone who has experience with federal regulations and working as a safety manager.
So far, I have not been stopped or DOT'd yet, but I know it's only a matter of time. I just need to know what will ACTUALLY be the consequence- a citation, or will I be stranded with the truck impounded? My husband and I are a team, and we have our 2 dogs, and quite a few personal belongings....having the truck impounded is NOT what we want to happen!
I realize this is likely a "warning sign" that this company is struggling & may soon go out of business, yet we have been treated well here & wish to repay good treatment with a little loyalty (as long as the paychecks keep coming). However, one more question I have is- can the state DOT eventually come in and shut the company down for not having registration? What about the insurance company- can we still renew & carry valid insurance if there is no registration?
I guess I am needing to know just how dire this situation is...whether I should hold out for a while longer or get out NOW. I greatly appreciate your time in answering my question.
-Danielle
(PS, I used to be an Allexperts volunteer in the Dogs category, so rest assured I'll take the time to leave feedback! :)
AnswerHi Danielle
I'm a Motor Carrier Compliance Officer in GA. Each State has it's own laws and does things different, so I can only tell you what will happen in GA. We will not impound the truck in GA, but you can get a citation for no registration in ever county you drive through. We don't require you to get a temporary before releasing you. I can't answer the insurance question. I'm pretty sure the company wouldn't be shut down because of it, most likely penalized.
I strongly suggest getting some answers or leaving. If you were to get in an accident and someone lost their life even if it was not your fault, it will be your fault because the truck should have not be there considering the expired tag. You've got your life in your hands. If the company was really good to you, they wouldn't ask you to drive on an expired tag. I'm asking you not to drive in violation, it's not worth it. I have been a truck driver too, so I understand.
I hope this answers your true question. It sounds like the company is in trouble, don't let them take you down too.
God Bless, Israel
