Safety has always been a top priority for truckers, and hours-of-service (HOS) regulations play a crucial role in maintaining that safety. Recently, the FMCSA reduced HoS waivers from 30 days to 14 days, down from an originally proposed five-day limit, as reported by Transport Topics. These waivers apply only during state-declared emergencies.
FMCSA’s Perspective
From the FMCSA’s viewpoint, the 14-day limit strikes the right balance for handling emergencies. The rule, set to take effect on December 12th, aims to ensure smoother operations during emergency situations. The FMCSA acknowledged that there’s no direct evidence showing the previous 30-day limit compromised safety. However, they remain committed to promoting road safety, emphasizing that driver fatigue—often caused by excessive hours behind the wheel—is a leading cause of road accidents. The goal is to ensure drivers get sufficient rest, reducing the risk of fatigue-related incidents.
Opposition to the Rule Change
As with any regulatory change, there’s been opposition. Some, including the ATA and the state of North Dakota, argue that the FMCSA is trying to solve a problem that doesn’t exist. The lack of evidence supporting the notion that the 30-day waiver posed safety risks has fueled this criticism. Initially, the FMCSA proposed a five-day limit, but after pushback, including feedback gathered by ATA from various stakeholders, the agency extended the limit to 14 days. While ATA supports the change, many still feel the original 30-day waiver was sufficient and should have remained.
CVSA’s Position
The CVSA has taken a different stance, advocating for more autonomy at the state level. They believe the authority declaring the emergency should set the HOS waiver duration based on the specific situation, rather than having a federal limit. While they acknowledge the potential for misuse without set rules, they argue that governors should have the flexibility to determine what’s best for their state’s unique circumstances.
The Bigger Picture
There are concerns about the negative impact of these changes on industries like farming, ranching, and fuel distribution, which rely heavily on flexible trucking schedules during emergencies. However, the FMCSA’s focus remains on safety. Fatigued drivers pose significant hazards on the road, and ensuring proper rest is key to reducing accidents. While the change may seem challenging now, the FMCSA is committed to safeguarding public safety by promoting well-rested, alert drivers on our highways.
