A new Department of Transportation rule took effect Jan. 4
requiring truck drivers to take 10 consecutive hours off after driving
11 hours.
The rule also requires truckers to take at least 34 consecutive
hours off after being on duty for 60 hours in a seven-consecutive-day
period or 70 hours off after being on duty in an eight-consecutive-day
period.
State and federal enforcement officials said they would wage an
aggressive two-month campaign to make certain all truck drivers were
educated about the new requirements, but would enforce egregious
violations.
"This new rule combines the best scientific research and
real-world analysis to prevent driver fatigue," said Federal Motor
Carrier Safety Administration Administrator Annette M. Sandberg.
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