Navigating Truck Driver Fatigue and Hours-of-Service Rules

Understanding Truck Driver Fatigue and Its Impact on Road Safety

Understanding Hours-of-Service Rules

What Are Hours-of-Service Rules?

The hours of service (HOS) refer to the maximum time permitted for drivers to be on or off duty. The rules limit the maximum on-duty time followed by the minimum off-duty time allowed for a commercial motor vehicle driver.

The FMCSA hours of service regulations apply to commercial vehicle drivers who operate across state borders and belong to one of the following categories:

• Drivers who operate vehicles weighing 10,001 pounds or more

• Drivers transporting hazardous materials

• Drivers moving 16 or more passengers not for profit or

• Commercial vehicles moving nine passengers as part of a business

Georgia Department of Public Safety enforces intrastate truck driver fatigue laws, which are similar to the FMCSA’s.

FMCSA Hours of Service Rules

Understanding the key components of Hours-of-Service rules is essential for truck drivers because they play a vital role in reducing fatigue-related accidents and promoting road safety.

To provide a clear overview, let’s break down the main components of these rules:

• Driving Limits: HOS rules specify truck drivers’ maximum allowable driving time. The driving limits rule prohibits truck drivers from being on duty for more than 14 consecutive hours. Once the 14-hour mark has been attained, the driver must take a 10-hour break before resuming driving.

• Sleeper Berth Provision: If a truck has a sleeper berth, drivers can use it during off-duty periods for rest.

• Mandatory Rest Periods: HOS rules mandate rest periods to prevent fatigue. Drivers must take a break of at least 30 minutes after eight hours of consecutive driving. Additionally, they must have at least ten consecutive hours off-duty for proper rest between shifts.

• Weekly Limits: HOS rules also establish weekly limits to prevent long stretches of continuous work. The most common rule limits drivers to 60/70 hours of on-duty time in a seven/eight-day period. Once this limit is reached, a driver must take a mandatory 34-hour rest period, including at least two nights.

• Off-Duty Time: Truck drivers must spend much of their off-duty period outside the truck’s sleeper berth. This rule promotes better rest quality and helps prevent fatigue.

• Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs): HOS compliance is often monitored through ELDs, which automatically record a driver’s hours. All motor vehicles must be provided with an ELD.

• Exceptions: HOS rules include exceptions to accommodate specific situations, such as adverse driving conditions or short-haul.

Staying Safe Around Trucks and Reporting Suspected Violations

Safety around trucks is a shared responsibility, and passenger vehicle drivers can play a crucial role in promoting safe practices and reporting violations. If you drive on a road that is also used by commercial trucks, keep these safety tips in mind:

• Maintain Safe Distances: When driving near trucks, maintain a safe following distance to allow for longer stopping distances. Avoid tailgating, as trucks have limited visibility.

• Stay Out of Blind Spots: Ensure you are aware of a truck’s blind spots, also known as “no-zones,” where the driver’s visibility is limited. Avoid lingering in these areas, especially alongside or behind the truck.

• Signal Your Intentions: Use turn signals and brake lights to indicate your intentions to truck drivers. Using signals helps them anticipate your actions and react accordingly.

• Pass Safely: When passing a truck, do so quickly and without lingering in their blind spots. Signal your lane change and give the truck ample space before merging back.

• Be Patient: Recognize that trucks may take longer to accelerate, decelerate, and maneuver. Be patient and avoid aggressive driving behaviors around them.

• Report Suspected Violations: If you witness a truck driver behaving recklessly or violating safety regulations, consider reporting it to the appropriate authorities.

Who Is Liable for Accidents Caused by Truck Driver Fatigue?