The trucking industry, like so many others, has been battered by the effects of COVID-19. And, because trucking is considered an essential service, drivers have been hit especially hard, working around-the-clock to meet the growing demand of delivering urgently needed goods throughout the country.
Today’s truck drivers must find a way to satisfy their increasing workloads while also preserving their health, as they man the front lines to handle supply chain disruptions and emergency delivery needs. It’s a delicate balancing act that needs to be addressed now and in the post-pandemic era.
So, what’s changed for the trucking industry since the pandemic struck in early 2020? In short, a lot.
Prior to COVID-19, commercial truckers had to observe stringent regulations enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). However, to deliver relief to businesses desperately in need of essential supplies during the outbreak, it became clear that certain trucking regulations needed to be modified, even if just temporarily.
With the economy taking a huge hit, emergency declarations were enacted by government officials, including the President of the United States, to ensure the timely transport of vital supplies like food, medical equipment and basic consumer provisions. One such declaration was the easing of Hours of Service (HOS) rules. Originally established to improve working conditions for America’s commercial truckers, these rules and regulations helped pave the way for greater safety on the nation’s roadways.
According to the FMCSA, Hours of Service refers to the maximum amount of time drivers are permitted to be on-duty including driving time. It also specifies the number and length of rest periods to help ensure that drivers stay awake and alert. In general, all carriers and drivers operating commercial motor vehicles must comply with HOS regulations.
