(Newswire.net — June 20, 2019) — Despite backlash from truck drivers around the country, a federal mandate has been attributed to decreasing hours of service violations. The federal mandate requires the use of an electronic-logging device (ELD) as a way to prevent truck drivers from working longer hours than legally permitted.
Breakdown of the ELD Mandate
The ELD federal mandate launched in 2018 with strict rules on how long drivers could stay on the road. With the use of ELD technology, truck drivers are prevented from driving for more than 11 hours daily and can have a maximum workday of 14 hours. There is also a logging of break times for truck drivers under the mandate with 30-minute rest periods needed every 8 hours. Although drivers kept paper logbooks in the past, the electronic devices are intended to ensure compliance. The central goal of the ELD mandate is for fewer accidents on the roadway caused by driver fatigue.
ELD Early Study Results
Studies have been launched since the ELD federal mandate took effect. The key takeaway from a study done at Northwestern University was a huge surge in hours of service (HOS) compliance. HOS violations reported in 2017 were 6 percent and decreased to 2.5 percent a year after the ELD mandate took effect. One major concern about the study data was an increase in truck drivers engaging in unsafe activity on the road to comply with the mandate. The study found the ELD mandate correlated to more drivers speeding and making unsafe lane changes. Accident rates remained steady post-mandate and studies have yet to show a decrease.
Flexible Alternatives
Truck drivers are looking to change the federal laws regarding ELDs because they have reported an increase in anxiety when driving. They have also stated salaries have gone done because of the laws. For instance, the 14-hour maximum workday cuts into how many hours they spend driving and earning money since part of their shifts involve hours of loading and unloading. With drivers paid by the mile, this limits earnings.
Truck drivers who have been involved in accidents related to HOS compliance should seek out legal counsel. The ELD mandate is still in early stages and legal issues can arise.