FMCSA shuts down Texas carrier

   The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has ordered Texas-based REDCO Transport to cease operation of its fleet of 112 trucks due to safety violations, alleged alcohol use by drivers, and its non-compliance with hours of service regulations.
   The agency’s decision stems from a fatal Aug. 12 incident in Louisiana when a REDCO truck crashed into a van stopped on the shoulder of the interstate. In the ensuing investigation, FMCSA found a number of safety violations.
   “The investigation further found that REDCO failed to ensure its drivers complied with controlled substances and alcohol use and testing regulations, and failed to ensure its drivers were properly qualified. In some instances, drivers were dispatched before federally required pre-employment drug test results were received,” the agency said in a statement.
   Since the start of the year, FMCSA has shut down 10 trucking companies and blocked seven commercial drivers from driving across state lines.
   “Blatant disregard of federal rules compromises the safety of every traveler on our roadways,” Anne Ferro, FMCSA’s administrator, said in a statement.  “We will continue our vigorous enforcement efforts and our close collaboration with state and local authorities to further improve roadway safety every day, every mile, everywhere.”