Federal Hours-Of-Service Rule For Truck Drivers Takes Effect

Liability & Insurance Week, Jan 5, 2004

A new Department of Transportation rule took effect Jan. 4 requiring truck drivers to take 10 consecutive hours off after driving 11 hours.

The rule also requires truckers to take at least 34 consecutive hours off after being on duty for 60 hours in a seven-consecutive-day period or 70 hours off after being on duty in an eight-consecutive-day period.

State and federal enforcement officials said they would wage an aggressive two-month campaign to make certain all truck drivers were educated about the new requirements, but would enforce egregious violations.

"This new rule combines the best scientific research and real-world analysis to prevent driver fatigue," said Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Administrator Annette M. Sandberg.