Drive a Truck? How to Stay in Compliance With Local and Federal Laws

On a typical day, you engage in many activities. It could be going to work or taking the kids to school. Amidst the many activities, driving your truck is not an exception. As a truck driver, there are many things to keep in mind. One of the essential aspects of observing includes local and federal laws. Traffic laws keep changing, and within a short time, you might breach a fundamental policy. That is why it is vital to understand how to comply with local and federal laws.

The Federal Motor Career Safety Administration

The Federal Motor Career Safety Administration (FMSA) works day and night to ensure truck drivers are safe and comply with federal laws. With a keen analysis of the trucking industry, the FMSA addressed significant hazards, including distracted driving, alcohol, and driver fatigue. FMSA has provided numerous mechanisms for helping drivers comply with federal laws. While many things can take a truck driver’s attention away, texting has become the most common among drivers. Federal laws prohibit texting while driving. During your first breach of the law, you can access one free pass without punishment. If you repeat the same offense within three years, you will not drive for 60 days. Repeating the same offense will result in 120 days of disqualification.

The United Nations Department of Transportation

The FMSA regulates fatigue driving by limiting the hours you can drive while carrying property. According to the rules, a truck driver carrying luggage should not go more than 11 hours. Drivers may not work more than 60 hours on duty. The United Nations Department of Transportation (DOT) also regulates the number of hours a driver can work on duty. These regulations are in place to ensure truck drivers are safe as well as other road users. The FMSA rules prohibit any driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Physical Exams

According to regulations, career companies should examine if their drivers are on drug and substance abuse. FMSA carries out a sweep every year to take intoxicated drivers off the road. DOT conducts a physical examination every year to ensure drivers are safe. As a truck driver getting a DOT physical is a top priority. With a DOT physical, you can know if you are fit for driving.

After examination, drivers can access medical certificates to confirm they are safe to operate a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV). The test entails general physical examination, urinalysis, vitals, vision, and hearing test. FMSA ensures a certified medical doctor carries out the medical examination. While trucking is an ongoing business, it’s vital to ensure you keep up with the federal rules and regulations. The FMSA ensures truck drivers comply with these policies.