The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has adopted rules that are intended to prevent dangerous truck accidents. But unfortunately, some trucking companies push their drivers beyond the limits established by the FMCSA, endangering both the truck drivers and other drivers on the road. If you or a loved one has been the victim of a trucking accident caused by a driver who has violated hours of service regulations, you may be entitled to recover compensation for your damages. The best way to learn about your rights and options is to speak with Mickey Fine in person. Please call (661) 333-3333 today arrange your free truck accident consultation at our Bakersfield personal injury office.
What are the Hours of Service Rules?
Generally speaking, hours of service rules limit truck drivers to 11 hours of driving per day and limit the total workday to 14 hours. Fundamental rules also include the following:- The maximum work week for a commercial truck driver is 70 hours in 8 consecutive days or 60 hours in 7 consecutive days.
- Truck drivers must take at least one 30-minute break during the first eight hours of a shift.
- A truck driver who reaches the maximum work week total of 60 or 70 hours must rest for at least 34 consecutive hours before resuming work. This rest period must include at least two nights including the period from 1:00 am to 5:00 am.
To Whom do the Rules Apply?
The hours of service rules apply to all commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). A CMV is any vehicle that is used as part of a business for the purposes of interstate commerce and satisfies any of the following criteria:- Gross weight of more than 10,000 pounds.
- Gross vehicle or combination weight rating of at least 10,000 pounds.
- Transports 9 or more passengers for compensation or more than 15 passengers not for compensation
- Transports hazardous materials