Overview of HOS Rules
Hours of Service (HOS) regulations are a set of federal rules established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to limit the number of hours commercial truck drivers can operate their vehicles. These rules are designed to reduce the risk of fatigue-related accidents and promote public safety on highways and interstates across the United States.
HOS regulations apply to most commercial motor vehicle operators involved in interstate commerce, including long-haul truck drivers and those transporting hazardous materials. By enforcing mandatory rest periods and limiting driving time, the FMCSA aims to prevent serious crashes caused by driver exhaustion.
Key HOS Requirements
The main components of the HOS rules for property-carrying drivers include:
- 11-Hour Driving Limit: Drivers may drive a maximum of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty.
- 14-Hour On-Duty Limit: Drivers may not drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty, following 10 consecutive hours off duty.
- 30-Minute Break Rule: Drivers must take a 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving time, during which they must be off duty or in sleeper berth.
- 60/70-Hour Limit: Drivers may not drive after 60 hours on duty in 7 consecutive days or 70 hours in 8 consecutive days, depending on the carrier’s schedule.
- Sleeper Berth Provision: Drivers using the sleeper berth must take at least 8 consecutive hours in the berth, plus a separate 2 consecutive hours either in the berth, off duty, or a combination of the two.
The Dangers of HOS Violations
When trucking companies or drivers fail to follow HOS regulations, the risk of a serious accident increases dramatically. Driver fatigue impairs judgment, slows reaction time, and can lead to catastrophic collisions — especially when operating large commercial vehicles such as semi-trucks or tanker trucks.
Violations may occur when:
- Drivers falsify logbooks or electronic logs to exceed allowable hours
- Trucking companies incentivize or pressure drivers to deliver cargo faster
- Breaks are skipped or rest periods are shortened to meet deadlines
Fatigue-related crashes can be particularly devastating, not only to the truck driver but also to innocent motorists and pedestrians. These accidents often involve high-impact collisions, 18-wheeler rollovers, or even hazardous material spills.
Legal Liability and Victim Rights
Victims injured in crashes involving fatigued or overworked truck drivers may be entitled to compensation through a personal injury or wrongful death claim. When a truck accident investigation reveals that HOS regulations were violated, it can significantly strengthen a victim’s legal case.
Liable parties may include:
- The truck driver who exceeded the legal driving limits
- The trucking company for failing to monitor or enforce compliance
- A logbook auditor or third-party dispatcher if they contributed to unlawful scheduling
An experienced truck accident lawyer can help preserve driver records, examine electronic logging devices, and identify whether fatigue played a role in the crash.
Speak with a Truck Accident Lawyer Today
At Spagnoletti Law Firm, our 18-wheeler accident attorneys have extensive experience handling cases involving serious injury and loss of life. If you or a loved one has been harmed in an accident and are considering your legal options, call 713-804-9306 today for a free consultation.