As U.S truckers work to keep the supply chain stable, the Department of Transportation has eased some hauling rules.
Under the revised hours of service, truckers can now split their 10 hours “off duty” into two periods. The 30 minute break is only required after eight hours of consecutive driving, instead of “on duty” hours. Truckers driving in unexpected adverse conditions, like weather or traffic, have two extra hours. The short-haul “on duty” period goes from 12 to 14 hours.
The U.S. Department of Transportation says that it listened to public feed back to help craft new guidelines to keep roads and drivers safe.
Elaine Chao, the U.S. Secretary of Transportation, stated, “These new common sense rules give truckers more options when planning their day. They will help drivers reach their destination safely with feeling like they have to race against the clock to comply with federal mandates. It will also help them get the rest they need, when they need it. When safety rules make sense driver are better able to comply and that benefits everyone.”
Experts estimate changes will save the U.S. economy nearly $247 million dollars each year.