THE Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) is calling for elimination of the mandatory 30-minute rest break demanded by US federal law in hours-of-service regulations
THE Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) is calling for elimination of the mandatory 30-minute rest break demanded by US federal law in hours-of-service regulations. Regulations imposed for safety, have had the reverse effect they say. Crash rates have increased since hours of work regulations have been in force, said the OOIDA.
OOIDA wants drivers to be allowed to take rest breaks once per 14-hour duty period for up to three consecutive hours as long as they are off duty, reports American Shipper.
These are some of the suggestions made to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, which has called for comments of restrictions imposed on how truckers deliver goods.
'For far too long the federal continues to burden trucking with a one-size-fits-all approach that punishes small businesses, stifles competition and over regulates the industry,' said OOIDA president Todd Spencer.
Independent truckers say regulations force them to be on the road when they are tired, during busy travel times and in adverse weather and road conditions.
'We believe that these changes, if implemented, will not only help the trucking industry and improve highway safety but can drive economic growth across the country, creating new opportunities and greater job satisfaction for millions,' Mr Spencer said.
