What is one of the potential penalties a carrier may face for violations of DOT standards?

One of the significant potential penalties a carrier may face for violations of Department of Transportation (DOT) standards is being shut down until compliance is achieved. This consequence underscores the importance placed on regulatory adherence within the transportation industry. If a carrier is found to be non-compliant with DOT regulations, it can be deemed unsafe to operate, and as a result, authorities may require the carrier to cease operations until all necessary standards and regulations are met.

This measure is taken to protect public safety and maintain the integrity of transportation networks. Ensuring compliance helps to mitigate risks associated with unsafe practices that could lead to accidents or violations that affect not just the carrier but also the safety of the general public. The other options, while they may represent issues that a carrier could face as a result of inefficient operations or legal ramifications, do not directly reflect the immediate regulatory consequences associated with DOT violations like a shutdown for non-compliance does.