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This special law only applies to commercial drivers

On Behalf of | Jan 24, 2025 | Motor Vehicle Accidents

Most traffic statutes are state-level laws. Every jurisdiction has slightly different rules regarding speed limits, distracted driving and other traffic issues. Motorists typically need to verify the statutes that apply at different locations and ensure that they comply with all relevant laws. For some drivers, crossing state lines is part of their daily workflow.

Commercial drivers operating semi-trucks and similar large vehicles often drive across multiple states, if not the entire country, for work. Attempting to memorize the statutes in every state they cross could create an unfair burden on these professionals. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has helped by standardizing certain rules for those operating commercial vehicles.

In fact, the FMCSA has adopted rules for commercial drivers that are stricter than any rules imposed on those operating their own vehicles. Hours of Service rules are among the unique federal regulations that apply to semi-truck drivers and other commercial transportation professionals. These rules help limit the likelihood of a fatigue-related crash.

What are the Hours of Service rules?

The FMCSA has adopted numerous rules restricting the drive time of commercial motorists. The exact rules that apply depend on whether the commercial driver must transport humans or goods. Commercial drivers are subject to a daily limit on their overall drive time.

There are rules mandating breaks. The FMCSA also limits how many hours a commercial motorist can work in a seven- or eight-day period. Drivers need 34 hours away from work to restart the clock, so to speak. These restrictions help keep drivers rested by preventing their employers from demanding that they drive when they are too tired to be safe.

How does fatigue affect driving?

Fatigued driving is a major safety concern. Exhausted drivers often have a hard time staying awake or keeping their focus on the road. When the situation changes, they may find it difficult to make a quick decision, as fatigue increases reaction times.

Exhaustion also diminishes decision-making capability, which means that drivers are more likely to make the wrong choice. Many experts compare fatigued driving to drunk driving because the impact on driving performance is similar.

Even when transportation companies train their drivers to carefully comply with Hours of Service rules, fatigue can still lead to semi-truck collisions. Learning more about traffic safety rules can help those involved in commercial crashes determine who is liable and pursue an appropriate amount of compensation given the circumstances of their wreck.