Adverse Driving Conditions for Truckers

As a trucker, you know that driving can be challenging, especially during adverse weather conditions. Snow, rain, and ice can make driving more difficult and increase the risk of accidents on the road. But did you know that adverse driving conditions can also affect your logbook? In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at how adverse driving conditions impact your logbook and what you can do to stay compliant with the regulations.

What are adverse driving conditions?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) defines adverse driving conditions as "snow, sleet, fog, other adverse weather conditions, a highway covered with snow or ice, or unusual road and traffic conditions." These conditions can make driving more difficult and increase the risk of accidents on the road.

How do adverse driving conditions affect your logbook?

Under the hours-of-service (HOS) regulations, drivers are required to take a certain amount of rest between shifts. However, the regulations recognize that adverse driving conditions can make it difficult for drivers to find a safe place to park and rest.

If you encounter adverse driving conditions, you are allowed to extend your driving time or delay taking a rest break. According to the FMCSA, "if adverse driving conditions prevent the driver from reaching a safe place to stop, the driver may continue to drive to the nearest place to obtain rest that is safe and accessible."

However, if you choose to extend your driving time or delay taking a rest break due to adverse driving conditions, you must document the reason in your logbook. The logbook must show the date, time, and location of the adverse driving conditions and how they prevented you from finding a safe place to stop.

It's important to note that you cannot use adverse driving conditions as an excuse to violate the HOS regulations. If you choose to continue driving due to adverse driving conditions, you must still comply with the regulations as much as possible.

How can you stay compliant with the regulations during adverse driving conditions?

To stay compliant with the regulations during adverse driving conditions, it's important to plan ahead and be prepared for the weather. Check the weather forecast before you hit the road and plan your route accordingly. If you know you'll be driving through an area with adverse weather conditions, make sure you have the necessary equipment, such as snow chains or tire chains.

If you encounter adverse driving conditions, try to find a safe place to park and rest as soon as possible. If you cannot find a safe place to stop, document the reason in your logbook as soon as possible. Be sure to provide as much detail as possible, including the date, time, and location of the adverse driving conditions and how they prevented you from finding a safe place to stop.

Adverse driving conditions can make driving more difficult and increase the risk of accidents on the road. However, by staying prepared and documenting any delays or extensions in your logbook, you can stay compliant with the regulations and keep yourself and others on the road safe. Remember to always prioritize safety and make sure you're well-rested before getting back on the road.