Common Violations

Gr Trucking | Concrete Recycling | Material Trucking | Sacramento

Regular drivers get tickets for things like speeding, parking in red zones, and failed equipment and truck drivers are subject to the same rules. The difference is truck drivers are subject to many more rules than the average driver. Those with a CDL have gone through the necessary training but that does not mean no violations are ever made. Today we are going to highlight three of the most common violations committed by truck drivers.

First, truck drivers need to pay attention to their hours of service and understand that they could get penalized for working too much. The FMCSA’s rules dictate how much driving a truck driver may perform. Drivers are required to take at least one 30 minute break every 8 hours. Drivers are not allowed to work more than 14 hour days and must take a 10 hour break before resuming. During those 14 hours, including breaks, drivers are not allowed to drive more than 11 hours.

Drivers also need to pay attention to how their truck is performing. The FMCSA has maintenance standards that ensure that trucks are safe to operate. Upkeep needs to be done with the utmost care to ensure they are safe and will not cause problems on the road. A truck that is not operating to these standards can be considered a safety hazard and can lead to big penalties as it puts other drivers at risk.

Lastly, driving is the number one task but part of the job is also knowing the loading rules. The nation-wide rules limit large trucks to a combined total weight of 80,000 pounds for interstate travel. Exceeding this weight can lead to trucks that are too heavy to stop or maneuver properly. Added strain on each axle and tire can increase the odds of breaking down and causing an accident. Drivers need to take the weight of their load seriously.

Truck drivers are subject to more rules than the regular driver and need to prioritize working around those rules to keep themselves and those around them safe while on the road. These violations are some of the most common so if you are a truck driver, pay attention and do not get caught with overworking, a poorly maintained truck, or carrying a load that is too heavy. It simply is not worth the risk of losing your CDL.