Truckers Gain Reprieve From Drive-Time Rules for Storm Help

Requirements on truckers’ service hours were temporarily waived for those providing assistance in several states related to two storm systems, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration said Aug. 24.

Emergency Declaration No. 2020-04, which took effect Aug. 24, covers truck drivers in Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas, which were affected by the tropical storm systems Laura and Marco that developed into hurricanes.

The measure granted regulatory relief for truckers bringing supplies, goods, equipment, and fuel to those states. Truckers transporting people into or out of the states and providing related emergency services also were covered.

Drivers requesting immediate rest must be granted at least 10 consecutive hours of off-duty time before returning to their terminal or usual reporting location. After drivers return, they must be relieved of all duties and responsibilities and given at least 10 hours of off-duty time if they haul property, or eight hours off duty if they transport passengers, the administration said.

Truckers’ hours-of-service requirements were temporarily suspended in the spring for tornado-related help in Tennessee and last fall for help in several states related to Hurricane Dorian.