FMCSA Hours Proposal to Improve Safety
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) recently published a proposal for changes to hours of service (HOS) rules for commercial drivers. As safety always remains the top priority, the FMCSA “authored an Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) to receive public comments” and “the Agency received more than 5,200 public comments” according to a recent press release.
Compiling all of those comments, the FMCSA has developed a proposal for revisions to the HOS rules currently in place. This proposal represents five key changes to the 30 minute break rule, splitting required 10 hours off duty into two periods, allowing one 30+ minute off-duty break, considerations for inclement driving conditions, and on-duty periods from 12 to 14 hours when looking at the short-haul exception available. For complete details on these proposed changes, learn more at fmcsa.dot.gov.
Looking at these proposed changes is certainly impactful, but what does it all mean?
This proposal means that the trucking industry may see changes in the future regulation of driver time and the impact will likely influence the economy nationwide. According to the FMCSA, this proposal “is estimated to provide $274 million in savings for the U.S. economy and American consumers.”
As you keep your eye on the developing story of the proposed FMCSA regulation changes, focus on your fleet’s safety beyond HOS. The team at Wiers is looking out for driver safety by way of their vehicles. Serving fleets and drivers alike in Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, and the surrounding states, Wiers is ready to help whether it’s in our service centers, at your location, or out on the road. We think about what’s at hand and what’s next. From maintenance and service to sales and leasing, Wiers is more than just a vendor. We’re truly a partner in your fleet’s success.
