If you’ve ever taken a long road trip across Florida, you’ve probably passed more than a few large trucks hauling cargo across the state. These drivers play a key role in moving goods, but they also have to follow strict rules that limit how long they can drive. These rules help reduce the risk of fatigue-related truck accidents, which are a serious concern on Florida’s highways.
Most truck drivers in Florida are covered by federal Hours of Service (HOS) regulations. These limits are set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and apply to drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) that travel between states. However, intrastate drivers (those who stay within Florida) may follow slightly different rules under state law.
Federal Driving Limits for Truck Drivers
The federal HOS rules are designed to protect both drivers and the public. They set limits on how many hours a truck driver can be on the road and how often they must rest.
Here’s what the federal rules typically allow:
- 11-hour driving limit: Drivers may drive for up to 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
- 14-hour window: Drivers have a 14-hour period in which they can complete their 11 hours of driving before they must rest again
- 30-minute break rule: After 8 hours of driving, drivers must take a 30-minute break
- 60/70-hour limit: Drivers may not exceed 60 hours on duty over 7 days, or 70 hours over 8 days, depending on their schedule
These rules apply to most long-haul truckers who operate across state lines, including those driving in and out of Florida.
Florida’s Intrastate Trucking Hours
Florida also has rules for truck drivers who operate only within state lines. While these rules are similar to federal law, there are a few key differences.
According to the Florida Administrative Code, intrastate drivers generally follow these guidelines:
- 12-hour driving limit after 10 hours off duty
- 16-hour on-duty window, which is slightly longer than the federal 14-hour window
- 70/80-hour on-duty limit in any 7/8 consecutive days
These intrastate rules apply only to certain drivers, including those who do not cross state lines or operate exclusively in Florida. However, many commercial carriers in the state choose to follow the stricter federal rules to maintain consistency.
The Importance of Driving Hour Limits
Fatigue is one of the leading causes of truck accidents, both in Florida and across the country. When a truck driver has been on the road for too long, their reaction time slows, judgment gets worse, and they may even fall asleep at the wheel.
That’s why these rules are necessary. By limiting the amount of time a truck driver can drive, regulators help reduce the chances of:
- Fatigue-related crashes
- Rear-end collisions
- Lane drift or swerving
- Rollovers from poor reflexes
When drivers or trucking companies break these rules, it puts everyone at risk. A single mistake can lead to devastating consequences.
Contact the Florida Truck Accident Lawyers at Shaked Law Firm, P.A. For More Help Today
If you were hurt in a crash involving a commercial truck, the driver’s hours behind the wheel could play a major role in your case. Violating HOS regulations is not just illegal; it’s often considered evidence of negligence. A lawyer can investigate logs, GPS data, and other records to find out whether the driver was following the law.
In Florida, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages if someone else’s careless actions caused your injuries.
For more information, contact a Florida 18-wheelers attorney at Shaked Law Firm, P.A.
Shaked Law Firm, P.A.
20900 NE 30th Ave STE 705
Aventura, FL 33180
(305) 937-0191
*Relocated across the street from Aventura Hospital.
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