Truck accidents can be one of the deadliest types of accidents on Montana roads. The large difference between the weight of a passenger car and the weight of a semi-truck or other type of commercial vehicle can mean a much higher rate of serious injury and death for those in smaller vehicles. One method that government authorities have developed to reduce the number of these accidents is a trucking log.
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, semi-truck operators are required to keep track of their work schedule in order to ensure that they are not driving while fatigued. New electronic logs are being installed on most trucks to replace the paper logs that were used previously. This is an effort to enforce the rules and prevent any fraudulent activity or mistakes.
Truck drivers are now required to take a break of at least 30 minutes during the first eight hours of their shift. They are also limited to 70 hours of work per week, a change from the previous limitation of 82 hours each week. In order to be allowed to work the full 70 hours, a substantial amount of rest time must be taken. Drivers are required to rest for 34 consecutive hours, including two nights between one and five a.m.
The number of hours a driver is able to operate a commercial vehicle has been limited to 11 hours and total work time cannot exceed 14 hours. This information is intended for your education and should not be taken as legal advice.
At Colton Holm Law Firm, we look forward to learning how we can help you resolve your legal concern.Call us today: (406) 259-9986