Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law | October 24, 2024 | Truck Accidents
Hours of Service (HOS) rules are guidelines set to help prevent truck drivers from driving too long without rest, reducing fatigue-related accidents. These rules apply in Florida at both the federal and state levels and are essential for keeping roads safe from truck accidents.
Federal Hours of Service Regulations
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) enforces these regulations for commercial truck drivers across the U.S., including Florida. Here’s a look at the main federal HOS rules:
- 11-hour driving limit: Drivers can only drive for up to 11 hours after taking 10 consecutive hours off-duty.
- 14-hour shift limit: Drivers can’t drive beyond the 14th hour after starting a shift, even with breaks. For instance, if a driver starts work at 8 a.m., they must stop driving by 10 p.m., regardless of breaks.
- 30-minute break requirement: After eight hours of driving, drivers must take a 30-minute break, which can include time on duty but not driving.
- 60/70-hour limit: Drivers can work up to 60 hours over seven days or 70 hours over eight days. After reaching this limit, they must rest for at least 34 hours before driving again.
These rules apply to truckers crossing state lines, while Florida-specific regulations may apply to those driving within the state.
Florida-Specific Regulations
While Florida generally follows federal HOS guidelines, it allows some exceptions. Intrastate drivers, or those driving only within Florida, may be subject to different or additional rules.
For example, Florida provides exceptions for certain drivers, like those operating agricultural or emergency vehicles, especially during harvest times or emergencies. It’s essential for truck drivers and companies to know these details to avoid penalties.
Why Hours of Service Rules Are Important
Hours of Service (HOS) regulations play a vital role in reducing accidents by addressing driver fatigue, a leading cause of truck crashes. Fatigued drivers are more prone to slower reaction times, increased errors, and, in severe cases, falling asleep behind the wheel. By limiting driving hours and mandating rest breaks, these rules are designed to prevent such risks and promote safer roads.
HOS compliance is especially important in the aftermath of a truck accident. If a truck driver or their employer violated these regulations, it could significantly influence liability in a personal injury case. Such violations may serve as clear evidence of negligence, making it easier to establish fault and hold the responsible parties accountable.
What Happens if Hours of Service Rules Are Violated?
Breaking HOS rules can lead to serious consequences for both drivers and trucking companies. The FMCSA and Florida authorities may issue fines, suspend drivers, or even revoke a trucking company’s license for repeated or severe violations. For drivers, these violations can harm their records and may lead to job loss.
If an accident involves a truck driver who broke HOS rules, that violation can be used as evidence in a personal injury claim. This could strengthen a victim’s case and increase the truck driver or company’s liability.
What To Do if You’re in a Truck Accident
If you’re in an accident involving a truck, it’s helpful to know if HOS violations were involved. Here are a few steps to take:
- Document the scene: Take photos, get witness contact information, and make note of any signs of driver fatigue.
- Seek medical attention: Truck accidents can cause serious injuries, and medical records will help support any claim.
- Consult a lawyer: An experienced attorney can investigate whether HOS rules were broken and advise on your options for seeking compensation.
An attorney can also access records, like driver logs and electronic logging device (ELD) data, to see if the driver followed HOS regulations.
Keeping Florida Roads Safe
Hours of Service rules are essential for reducing the risk of truck accidents and keeping Florida roads safer. Whether you’re a driver, company, or accident victim, understanding these rules can help ensure safer driving and guide your decisions after an accident.
Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer at Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law Today
For more information, please contact Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law to schedule a free consultation. We have five convenient locations in Florida, including Orlando, Palm Bay, Melbourne, Cocoa, and Titusville. If you’re injured in Melbourne, Don’t hesitate to contact our Melbourne truck accident attorney.
Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law – Orlando, FL Office
964 Lake Baldwin Ln Ste. 200
Orlando, FL 32814
Phone: (407) 801-3000
Hours: Open 24/7
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Orlando, FL.
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 28.5593579,-81.3271749
Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law – Palm Bay, FL Office
4620 Lipscomb Street N.E Suite #3K
Palm Bay, FL 32905
Phone: (321) 677-5964
Hours: Open 24/7
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Palm Bay, FL.
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 28.039083,-80.6083109
Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law – Melbourne, FL Office
1600 W Eau Gallie Blvd #205j
Melbourne, FL 32935
Phone: (321) 450-7134
Hours: Open 24/7
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Melbourne, FL.
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 28.1289147,-80.6461588
Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law – Cocoa, FL Office
717 S Cocoa Blvd STE 203
Cocoa, FL 32922
(321) 449-8042
Hours: Open 24/7
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Cocoa, FL.
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 28.3511613,-80.7312948
Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law – Titusville, FL Office
4527 S Hopkins Ave Suite B
Titusville, FL 32780
Phone: (407) 801-3000
Hours: Open 24/7
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Titusville, FL.
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 28.5584923,-80.8010051