Interstate Truck Drivers Guide To Hours Of Service
Introduction
Interstate truck drivers have a significant responsibility to transport goods across the country safely and efficiently. One of the essential aspects of their job is adhering to the hours of service regulations set forth by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These regulations ensure that drivers get enough rest to prevent accidents caused by driver fatigue.
What Are Hours Of Service Regulations?
Hours of Service regulations are rules set by the FMCSA that limit the amount of time a commercial driver can be on-duty and drive. These rules dictate how long a driver must take rest breaks and how many hours they can work in a day or week. These regulations are in place to prevent driver fatigue, which is a leading cause of accidents on the road.
Who Must Follow Hours Of Service Regulations?
All commercial motor vehicle drivers who transport goods or passengers across state lines must follow hours of service regulations. This includes drivers of large trucks, buses, and other commercial vehicles.
What Are The Hours Of Service Regulations?
The FMCSA has established the following hours of service regulations for commercial drivers:
- 11-Hour Driving Limit: A driver may drive a maximum of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off-duty.
- 14-Hour Limit: A driver may not drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty, following 10 consecutive hours off duty. Off-duty time does not extend the 14-hour period.
- Rest Breaks: A driver may drive only if 8 hours or less have passed since the end of the driver's last off-duty or sleeper berth period of at least 30 minutes.
- 60/70-Hour Limit: A driver may not drive after 60/70 hours on duty in 7/8 consecutive days. A driver can restart the 7/8 day period after taking 34 or more consecutive hours off-duty.
What Is A Daily Log?
A daily log is a record of a driver's hours of service. It includes the time a driver starts and ends their shift, the amount of time they spend driving, and their rest breaks. Drivers are required to keep daily logs to ensure they are following hours of service regulations.
Electronic Logging Devices
Effective December 16, 2019, all commercial drivers must use electronic logging devices (ELDs) to track their hours of service. An ELD automatically records a driver's driving time and monitors their compliance with hours of service regulations. It replaces traditional paper logbooks.
Exceptions To Hours Of Service Regulations
There are some exceptions to hours of service regulations. For example, drivers who transport agricultural commodities, livestock, or fish are exempt from certain hours of service regulations. Additionally, drivers who operate within a 100 air-mile radius and return to their starting location within 12 hours are also exempt from certain hours of service regulations.
Consequences Of Violating Hours Of Service Regulations
Violating hours of service regulations can result in serious consequences for both the driver and the carrier. Drivers can face fines, suspension of their commercial driver's license, and even criminal charges if they cause an accident due to driver fatigue. Carriers can face fines and other penalties for allowing their drivers to violate hours of service regulations.
Conclusion
Hours of service regulations are in place to ensure the safety of everyone on the road. It is important for interstate truck drivers to understand these regulations and follow them to prevent accidents caused by driver fatigue. By using electronic logging devices and keeping accurate daily logs, drivers can ensure they are in compliance with hours of service regulations and avoid the serious consequences of violating them.