Assistance in investigations and special studies.

(a)A shipper, carrier, package owner, package manufacturer or certifier, repair facility, or person reporting an incident under the provisions of § 171.16 must:#

(1)Make all records and information pertaining to the incident available to an authorized representative or special agent of the Department of Transportation upon request; and#

(2)Give an authorized representative or special agent of the Department of Transportation reasonable assistance in the investigation of the incident.#

(b)If an authorized representative or special agent of the Department of Transportation makes an inquiry of a person required to complete an incident report in connection with a study of incidents, the person shall:#

(1)Respond to the inquiry within 30 days after its receipt or within such other time as the inquiry may specify; and#

(2)Provide true and complete answers to any questions included in the inquiry.#