Many traffic rules are different in every jurisdiction. While most states adopt similar traffic laws, the exact rules of the road change from one state to the next. One group of drivers is subject to federal traffic regulations in addition to baseline state traffic rules.
Professionals with commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) can operate semi-trucks and other large vehicles. They can therefore potentially cause some of the worst crashes possible. Federal traffic regulations that apply to those with CDLs can help limit the risk of major semi-truck crashes.
What are some of the unique rules that apply to commercial drivers but not those operating passenger vehicles?
Stricter alcohol limits
Most people know that it is illegal to drive while drunk. They ask a friend to drive if they feel buzzed or if they believe they may be over the legal limit for their blood alcohol concentration (BAC). For most drivers, the BAC limit that applies is 0.08%. Commercial drivers in control of semi-trucks and similar vehicles are subject to a much stricter standard. The BAC limit that applies to those operating commercial vehicles is 0.04%. Any commercial driver who exceeds that limit is at risk of drunk driving charges and the loss of their CDL.
Hours of Service rules
Fatigued driving can be just as dangerous as drunk driving. Motorists who go too long without adequate rest can make bad choices in traffic. They may have difficulty reacting quickly to changing circumstances. They may even fall asleep while driving. The federal Hours of Service rules limit the length of each shift and how many hours a professional can operate a semi-truck without a break. They are also subject to an overall limit on a rolling seven-day or eight-day basis. In theory, fastidious compliance with Hours of Service rules should limit the likelihood of exhausted or fatigued drivers causing crashes.
A federal no-text rule
Most states have adopted laws against texting while driving, but the regulations are different in every jurisdiction. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has adopted a no-text rule that applies to commercial drivers regardless of location. Semi-truck drivers should not manually handle mobile phones and other digital devices while operating commercial trucks. Repeat violations of the no-text rule may put a driver at risk of losing their eligibility for their CDL.
Many semi-truck collisions occur because drivers do not follow traffic regulations. Filing an insurance claim or even a lawsuit can lead to compensation for those affected by crashes involving semi-trucks.
