In March 2018, Brian Babin, a member of the House Transportation Infrastructure Committee introduced the Responsible and Effective Standards for Truckers or REST Act. Under the REST Act, truck drivers are legally permitted to take one rest break per shift for up to three consecutive hours.
Even with the REST Act, truck drivers often drive for extended periods of time and can quickly become fatigued. If you are hurt due to a tired or negligent truck driver, you should reach out to a highly skilled truck accident lawyer at Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C.. Call us today at (312) 236-2900 to schedule a free case consultation.
As stated earlier, under the REST Act, truck drivers will be allowed to take a single rest break per shift for up to three hours. This off-duty period would not be counted toward their 14-hour duty allowance. Additionally, it will not extend the allowable drive limits.
Under this new act, truck drivers will still be mandated to log 10 consecutive hours off duty before they begin their next work shift. The 30-minute rest break requirement will be eliminated. The purpose of the REST Act is to improve highway safety and provide truck drivers with additional flexibility.
Babin explains that the current hours of service requirements have not led to improved highway safety. Instead, the amount of truck accidents has increased since the introduction of these requirements. The enforcement of the REST Act would alter hours of service regulations to allow truckers up to three hours to relax. They will now be able to take a break whenever they feel it is appropriate so they can stay away from inclement weather conditions, congestion, and other road conditions that lead to unsafe roadways.
Truck drivers have mixed feelings when it comes to the Rest Act. Some are upset about it because they do not like the idea of having to follow additional regulations. However, others see it as greater freedom and flexibility and the chance to improve the safety of the highways. Since the act is still new, it is too soon to determine how it will impact truckers.
All truck drivers must adhere to the REST Act. If you are the victim in a crash that was caused by a truck driver who did not take a rest break during their shift, they will be held liable for any damages they may have caused.
It is their responsibility to take a break if they are fatigued, aware of adverse weather conditions, or any other hazards that may inhibit their ability to drive safely. A truck accident lawyer can help you prove liability in this situation and increase your chances of collecting the full and fair compensation you may be entitled to.
If you’ve been hurt as the result of a truck driver’s negligent actions, reach out to a truck accident lawyer at Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C.. We’ll investigate your case and determine whether the REST Act was disregarded and led to your damages.
Contact us at (312) 236-2900 to get started with your case during a free legal consultation.
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