Local Truck Drivers and Companies Doubt New Rules
Posted at: 01/23/2012 9:50 PM
| Updated at: 01/24/2012 2:13 PM
By: Katey Rusch
Truck drivers might soon see the number of hours they can spend on the road shrink. The U.S. Department of Transportation is proposing cutting the number of driver-hours per week. Some in the industry say they aren't so sure its a good idea.
"It's all about driver fatigue certainly that's a big issue driver fatigue," said Terry Osvold, Safety Director for Halvor Lines in Superior.
"I don't see how it's doing anything any safer,'" said Louisiana based driver, Mike Hassey.
Right now, truck drivers can clock up to 82 hours a week, but thanks to a new rule, drivers may soon have to hit the brakes at 70.
"Truck stops be crowded a lot more harder to find a parking spot and less incomes coming into the house," Hassey.
In addition to fewer hours, the required 34-hour break for drivers must cover two overnight time periods. For example, a break from 9 p.m. Monday to 7 a.m. Wednesday would be allowed, but a break from 9 a.m. Monday to 7 p.m. Tuesday would not. Osvold said this will affect other drivers' early morning commutes.
"We are going to have a lot more congestion on the roadways during the early morning hours because the driver nearly to get going he needs to make the appointments," said Osvold.
Not to mention the added shock to businesses.
"It's going to put a lot of pressure on shippers and receivers because they are going to have to conform to the drivers hours of service," said Osvold.
But since the rule doesn't get the green light until 2013 Osvold said is hopeful this rule will get a new paint job before then.
"There are a lot of trucking organizations that are trying to digest information whether or not it needs to be taken before the courts for some concessions and changes," said Osvold.
The U.S. Department of Transportation approved the rules in December.
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