Understanding the new 30-minute break rule

摘要

Roughly two years in the making, the new federal hours-of-service rules are scheduled to go into effect on Sept. 29. They could provide drivers with a lot more flexibility - and productivity - if applied correctly. In particular, the changes to the 30-minute break rule could have a big impact on regional and long-haul drivers. Before using the new rule, however, drivers must understand how and when it applies and how to implement it properly. Under the current rule, a 30-minute rest break is required in order to drive a commercial motor vehicle after going eight consecutive hours without a break. Drivers must be off duty and/or in a sleeper berth for their breaks. Under the new rule, a 30-minute break from driving is only required after accumulating eight hours of driving time, if the driver will continue to drive after the break. As a result of the change, a break will be needed only by those who drive a commercial motor vehicle more than eight hours per workday. Fewer drivers, therefore, will need the break to remain in compliance, which could reduce violations.