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On Thursday, the Department of Transportation released new guidelines for truck drivers, who have played a crucial role in maintaining the U.S. economy during the coronavirus pandemic.
The regulations governing hours of service dictate how long commercial drivers can operate without taking a break. The newly introduced guidelines are intended to offer greater flexibility “without compromising safety,” as noted by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These regulations were developed with feedback from the industry.
FMCSA Acting Administrator Jim Mullen stated, “These reforms will enhance safety on America’s roads and strengthen the country’s motor carrier industry.”
One significant change is the revision of the sleeper-berth exception, which permits drivers to divide their required ten hours of rest into two segments (8-2 or 7-3), instead of taking the entire duration at once. Importantly, neither split will affect the 14-hour driving limit.
Brian Fielkow, president of Jetco Delivery, remarked to FOX Business that this rule is a pivotal advancement, allowing professional drivers to manage fatigue better. He elaborated that the previous rules discouraged drivers from resting if they felt tired, as the driving clock wouldn’t stop. Therefore, drivers were often left to choose between continuing to drive or resting.
Break Regulations
Drivers must take a 30-minute break after eight hours of driving. However, they can now record time spent waiting for loading as break time, rather than being completely off duty. The Department of Transportation estimates that this adjustment will save the industry $274 million annually.
Short-Haul Exception
The Department of Transportation will lengthen the maximum on-duty period for drivers transporting goods short distances from 12 to 14 hours and increase the distance limit from 100 to 150 air miles.
Adverse Conditions Exception
The regulations regarding adverse driving conditions—such as snow and fog—will now allow for a two-hour extension of the maximum driving window. This modification aims to enhance safety by enabling drivers to proceed with caution or take breaks as necessary without exceeding their driving limits.
These updated rules are seen as a positive development within the trucking industry, which is currently facing challenges, including declining shipping rates. As reported by FOX Business, trucking companies have urged Congress to intervene and regulate transaction pricing to increase industry transparency.
