Yes, there are trucking regulations pertaining to the number of hours a truck driver can drive per day, and these are regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These rules may help to avoid driver fatigue; truckers who drive while fatigued may increase the risk of big rig accidents in Atlanta and throughout Georgia.
Hours-of-Service Trucking Regulations
The following are four rules pertaining to the number of hours that a truck driver can operate a big rig carrying property:
- 11-Hour Driving Limit – can drive no more than 11 hours after being off duty for 10 straight hours;
- 14-Hour Driving Limit – drivers cannot drive past the 14th straight hour after going on duty after 10 straight hours off duty;
- 60/70-Hour On-Duty Limit – the driver is not allowed to drive after reaching 60 or 70 hours on duty over a seven- or eight-day period (the seven- or eight-day period may restart after 34 or more straight hours off duty); and
- Sleeper Berth Provision – the driver has to spend at least eight straight hours in a sleeper birth as well as two more straight hours either in a sleeper berth or off duty.
Consequences of Violating Trucking Regulations
One consequence of violating these regulations is that a driver may become sleepy at the wheel. This decreases the ability to react quickly and interferes with focus, which may increase the chance of a big rig accident in Atlanta.
Consulting with an Atlanta Truck Accident Attorney
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2010 there were 152 fatalities in crashes involving large trucks in the state of Georgia. But even accidents that don’t result in death can cause significant injuries and damage.
Whether you were injured in a big rig accident in Atlanta while traveling on a major interstate such as I-75 or I-85, or down main street, contact an attorney at the Shane Smith Law at (980) 246-2656. In addition, order our FREE injury book, which may help you avoid mistakes when filing a claim. We are here to help explain your rights and the impact of trucking regulations on your case.