Can you drive after you have reached 70 hours of working or driving in an 8 day period?

**Can You Drive After You Have Reached 70 Hours of Working or Driving in an 8 Day Period?**

In short, the answer is no. According to federal regulations, once a driver has worked or driven for a total of 70 hours in an 8-day period, they are not allowed to drive until they have taken a mandatory 34-hour break. This rule, known as the 70-hour rule, is in place to prevent drivers from becoming fatigued and posing a danger to themselves and others on the road. This regulation applies to all drivers who operate a commercial motor vehicle, including truck drivers and bus drivers.

**Frequently Asked Questions**

1. What happens if a driver exceeds the 70-hour limit?

If a driver exceeds the 70-hour limit within an 8-day period, they are not permitted to drive until they have taken a mandatory 34-hour break. This rule is strictly enforced by the Department of Transportation to ensure the safety of all drivers on the road.

2. Can a driver split the 34-hour break into two periods?

No, the 34-hour break must be taken all at once. It cannot be split into two separate periods of time. This is to ensure that drivers have adequate time to rest and recover from their long hours of work or driving.

3. Are there any exceptions to the 70-hour rule?

There are certain exemptions to the 70-hour rule, such as when a driver operates a vehicle within a 150-air mile radius of their normal work reporting location and is able to return to that location within 12 hours. However, these exemptions are limited and must be carefully followed.

4. How is the 8-day period calculated?

The 8-day period is a rolling period that is not tied to a specific week. It is calculated by adding up the total number of hours worked or driven over the past 8 days, including the current day.

5. What are the consequences of violating the 70-hour rule?

Violating the 70-hour rule can result in serious penalties for both the driver and the company they work for. This can include fines, suspension of driving privileges, and potential legal action.

6. How does the 34-hour break work?

The 34-hour break must include two periods between 1:00 AM and 5:00 AM. It must also be taken in addition to the 10-hour off-duty period required after driving for 11 hours.

7. Is it the driver’s responsibility to track their hours?

Yes, drivers are required to keep accurate records of their hours worked and driven. This can be done through electronic logging devices or paper logbooks, and must be available for inspection by law enforcement at all times.

8. What can drivers do during the 34-hour break?

During the 34-hour break, drivers are free to do as they choose, as long as they are not performing any work-related duties. It is a time for rest and relaxation to ensure they are well-rested before returning to the road.

9. Can the 70-hour rule be waived in emergency situations?

In certain emergency situations, such as natural disasters or public health emergencies, the 70-hour rule may be temporarily waived to allow for increased flexibility in delivering essential goods and services.

10. Are there any additional state-specific regulations?

Some states have adopted their own regulations that go above and beyond the federal requirements. It is important for drivers to familiarize themselves with both federal and state-specific regulations to ensure compliance.

11. How does the 70-hour rule impact scheduling for drivers?

The 70-hour rule can significantly impact the scheduling of drivers, as it requires careful planning to ensure that drivers do not exceed their hours within an 8-day period. This often requires coordination between drivers and their dispatchers.

12. What resources are available to help drivers understand the 70-hour rule?

There are a number of resources available to help drivers and companies understand and comply with the 70-hour rule, including training materials, online resources, and industry-specific publications. It is important for drivers to stay informed and up to date on all regulations.

By understanding and adhering to the 70-hour rule, drivers can help ensure the safety of themselves and others on the road, while also avoiding potential penalties for non-compliance. It is essential for all drivers to be aware of their working hours and to take the necessary breaks to prevent fatigue and promote road safety.