Recording Hours of Service
Some drivers still use pen and paper to record the number of hours they spend on the road; others have converted over to using electronic logging devices, which are much more efficient and accurate at capturing this data.
These electronic devices include:
- Electronic on-board recorders (EOBRs)
- Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs)
- Automatic on-board recording deviced (AOBRD)
The basic premise is that these devices capture a driver’s duty status accurately and automatically, at a minimum recording engine use, road speed, miles driven, the date and time of day.
These devices synchronize with a vehicle engine to automatically record driving time, for easier, more accurate hours of service recording.
FMCSA Publishes ELD Mandate
The FMCSA published a mandate in the December 16, 2015 Federal Register, requiring the use of ELDs by interstate drivers of commercial motor vehicles who currently use a driver’s record of duty status to record their hours of service.
The ELD rule is intended to help create a safer work environment for drivers, making it easier and faster to accurately track, manage and share records of duty status data.
What this Means to Accidents Involving Commercial Trucks
The FMCSA regulates drive time and rest periods and mandates that each individual driver maintain a detailed log of his or her hours of service. As we research and build your case, we will analyze this data. If a driver is out of compliance when an accident occurs, the data captured in these electronic and paper logs can be used to establish negligence and liability.
Receive a Free Evaluation from Experienced Truck Accident Attorneys
Truck accidents can leave you suffering from severe physical and emotional injuries. Nash & Franciskato, a Kansas City based personal injury law firm, represents those injured in trucking accidents. We will thoroughly investigate your accident and determine causation and liability using tools such as electronic logs to determine if the driver was out of compliance. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation evaluation of your case.