Being a commercial vehicle driver requires a lot of ability. Certainly, being very good at driving is the only one of the many abilities you must possess.
Besides one should also have an idea of the different Hours of Service Rules. So, the whole deal with these rules and regulations is about attaining maximum road safety.
It encourages the drivers to take their required time break so that they can get proper rest. This eliminates any exhaustion and fatigue enabling the drivers to engage in their work actively. Exhaustion and drowsiness are some of the leading causes of road accidents.
By introducing and generating awareness of HOS regulations, safe and smooth task completion can be ensured.
An Overview of the Hours of Service Rules
Complying with the Hours of Service rule for professional truck drivers is crucial. Identifying your limit is necessary as it depends on the kind of jobs you perform and the vehicle you possess.
1. 14 Hour Driving Window:
According to the 14-hour driving rule, a driver cannot drive for 14 hours consecutively after returning from a consecutive 10-hour off-duty time.
This limit showcases the total amount of on-duty hours for a driver.
During the limit period, the driver can rest, take meals, or do some other tasks apart from driving. This rule is designed to ensure that the drivers get proper rest and do not drive out of exhaustion and fatigue.
This limit remains intact even if the driver has to take a break or nap. This limit begins as soon as the driver starts working for the company for the day and not just when he starts driving.
However, to meet a driver’s daily duty responsibilities, they must be given a robust truck to drive. In case you’re looking for one, check out a range of trucks at https://www.maximinc.com/.
2. 11 Hour Driving Limit:
Similar to the 14-hour limit, the 11-hour limit permits the driver to drive for a total of 11 hours. They need to take a 30-minute break after these hours.
However, if the driver has crossed eight hours since their last duty’s end or at least 30 minutes sleeper-berth period, driving isn’t permitted after these hours. If the truck driver drives more than the 11-hour limit, it is considered illegal.
Hence, an action can be taken against them. This is done to promote safety and prevent any accidents that may arise due to fatigue and sleep deprivation.
3. Passenger Carrying Duty Limit:
If you drive a passenger-carrying vehicle, you will be given a 15-hour duty limit. You do not need to adhere to a workday limit. Hence, it is non-consecutive so any time you spend off duty or on a sleeper berth period won’t be included in the 15-hour limit.
It allows the driver to rest for long periods during the shipping process while picking up and dropping off cargo. It enables the driver to finish any non-work related tasks and take a break. It is functional for intrastate property carriers and passenger carriers.
Who must adhere to the Hours of Service Rules and where do they apply?
If you are the driver of a common motor vehicle that is used commercially, you need to remember that it is important for you to observe the Hours of Service Rules.
Whether the vehicle of your choice is imported or local, you still need to keep abreast of the rules when you are at the helm.
Many different factors have a direct connection with the type of this group, to mention whether you are among the people who fit this role or not, to confirm that.
Initially, the vehicle must have the capacity of being a vehicle of weight covering or a vehicle of combinations of at least 4,536 kg.
Your job in this vehicle may be different if you use the car to transport an extra 16 personnel with or without endorsements of hazardous materials in bulk. You must follow these rules too.
Hours of Service Rules exist in many countries but the rules and regulations of governance may vary. The U.S. has two main Hours of Service Rules which are explained below.
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Interstate Commerce:
Interstate commerce includes rules for vehicles that transport passengers, goods, or services across state borders. Drivers need to determine what rule set they fall under.
This is essential because they must comply with FMCSA HOS regulations for an estimated 7-8 days even if they are not driving or working for interstate commerce. This rule applies even to those drivers who only engage in occasional interstate commerce.
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Intrastate Commerce:
Intrastate commerce is for drivers who operate within the state. If you transport passengers, goods, or services within the state borders, your truck falls under intrastate commerce.
You do not have to adhere to federal Hours of Service rules and regulations if your truck. You must remember that all states have their own HOS regulations. If you are an intrastate driver, ensure to go through them.
It is important to ensure that you follow all the rules. Whether you are an interstate or intrastate commerce driver, researching the Hours of Service rules is necessary.
Make sure you give out if you need to follow the 11-hour, 14-hour, or passenger driving limit. This will help you perform your duties safely.
