(a) After the Hearing Officer receives a case file from the Chief Counsel, the Hearing Officer notifies the party in writing of:

(1) The date, time and location of the hearing and whether the hearing will be conducted telephonically or at the DOT Headquarters building in Washington, D.C.;

(2) The right to be represented at all stages of the proceeding by counsel as set forth in § 599.511; and,

(3) The right to a free copy of all written evidence in the case file as set forth in § 599.507.

(b) On the request of a party, or at the Hearing Officer's direction, multiple proceedings may be consolidated if at any time it appears that such consolidation is necessary or desirable.