The 34-hour restart rule is a way for truckers to restart their work weeks when they have worked too many hours and fear they be in violation of the federal Hours of Service (HOS) regulations. These regulations state that drivers are prohibited from working more than 60 hours in seven days or 70 hours in eight days. If a trucker has several long work days at the beginning of the week, their worktime will be limited for the rest of the week. Taking a 34 hour break allows them to restart their weeks.
The HOS regulations were implemented to keep drivers and other motorists safe. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) conducted studies on driver alertness and determined that drivers become more fatigued as they spend more time on the road. FMCSA enacted the HOS regulations shortly thereafter. The 34-hour rule was introduced after the Department of Transportation found that a 34 hour break refreshed drivers and allowed them to return to full alertness
Right now truckers have unlimited use of the 34-hour rul. Time taken off may include sleeper berth time, off-duty hours, or both. Drivers do not have to spend any of these hours at home, or may spend all of them at home; it is the drivers’ choice. This rule is also voluntary; some truckers may never use it at all.
If you use the 34-hour reset, it is important to log your hours correctly. You must also use the same time zone as your home terminal. Some companies offer electronic devices to assist you track your 34-hour restart.
Personal Care Transport is the only company in Pennsylvania that is licensed to transport truck drivers. With over four years of experience, Personal Care has built close relations with men and women in the industry. We have a deep understanding of the training process. Use Personal Care Services for all your trucking-related transportation needs.
Information for this article was gathered from www.fmcsa.dot.gov
