Hours of Service (HOS) can often times be a frustrating aspect of driving.  The rules are constantly evolving, and it can be a task to keep up with all the changes at times.  

HOS The Final Rule

On June 1, 2020, FMCSA revised four provisions of the HOS regulations to provide greater flexibility for drivers without adversely affecting safety. Motor carriers are required to comply with the new HOS regulations which went into effect on September 29, 2020.

Short-haul Exception

Expands the short-haul exception to 150 air-miles and allows a 14-hour work shift to take place as part of the exception.

Adverse Driving Conditions Exception

Expands the driving window during adverse driving conditions by up to an additional 2 hours.

30-Minute Break Requirement

Requires break of at least 30 consecutive minutes after 8 cumulative hours of driving time (instead of on-duty time) and allows an on-duty/not driving period to qualify as the required break.

Sleeper Berth Provision

Modifies the sleeper berth exception to allow a driver to meet the 10-hour minimum off-duty requirement by spending at least 7 hours of that period in the berth combined with a minimum off-duty period of at least 2 hours spent inside or outside the berth, provided the two periods total at least 10 hours. When used together as specified, neither qualify period counts against the 14-hour driving window.

 

Don’t forget Personal Conveyance—are you using it correctly?  This is an area where drivers seem to have the most confusion and often get violations because of it.

Do you need help with your HOS Compliance??? FR8 Solutions is here to help you!