What Are Hours of Service Rules for Truck Drivers in Florida?

JAMES D. PAYER | November 4, 2024 | Truck Accident Lawyer Near Me Orlando

Commercial truck drivers have a lot of responsibility on the road. Semi-trucks and other large commercial vehicles can cause catastrophic accidents. Therefore, truck drivers must use extreme care when operating large trucks. They must be alert and focused on driving to avoid accidents.

State and federal laws limit the number of hours a truck driver can operate a vehicle. The purpose is to ensure the drivers receive adequate rest to reduce the risk of fatigued and drowsy driving truck accidents. Florida has specific laws for truck drivers who operate exclusively within the state. Otherwise, federal hours of service rules apply.

How Many Hours Can a Truck Driver Drive in Florida?

Intrastate trucking means that the truck is only operated within the state. Florida Motor Vehicles Code §316.302 governs the hours of service for intrastate trucking. According to the code, the requirements for Florida truck drivers are:

• A truck driver may drive for up to 12 hours after taking ten straight hours off duty.
• A break must be taken after coming on duty after ten straight hours off duty.
• A truck driver is limited to a maximum of 70 hours in a seven-day period and 80 hours in an eight-day period.
• A driver must take at least 34 hours off duty at the end of a 7/8 day period.

Again, the above rules apply to truck drivers operating only within Florida. If they transport loads outside of Florida or haul hazardous materials requiring a placard on the truck, they must follow federal hours of service rules.

What Are the Federal Hours of Service Rules for Florida Interstate Truck Drivers?

A truck driver who transports loads outside of the state has different hours of service. The FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) sets the hours of service for interstate trucking. The rules are similar but differ in some ways. 

The federal hours of service rules are:

• A maximum of 11 hours of driving is permitted after taking 10 straight hours off duty.
• A break must be taken after coming on duty for 14 hours after taking 10 straight hours off duty.
• A maximum of 60 hours of driving is permitted in a seven-day period and 700 hours of driving in an eight-day period.
• Drivers must take at least 34 straight hours off duty to end the seven or eight-day period.

Federal rules permit truck drivers to extend the 14-hour driving limit if they encounter adverse driving conditions. They may extend the 14-hour period by two hours.

What Are the Rest Periods for Commercial Truck Drivers?

Obtaining sufficient rest and sleep is essential for operating a commercial truck safely. The law requires truck drivers to take at least 30 minutes of uninterrupted break time after driving for eight straight hours. They may not drive during the 30-minute break.

Truck drivers must have a 10-hour rest period after driving their daily limit. They can split the 10 hours if they spend at least two hours off duty and a minimum of seven hours in the sleeper berth. This sleeper berth exception must still add up to at least 10 hours off duty.

Fatigued and Drowsy Truck Driving Accidents Cause Devastating Injuries

Accident victims in truck accidents often suffer multiple catastrophic injuries. Common truck accident injuries include:

• Crushing injuries
• Severe burns
• Fractured, crushed, and broken bones
• Amputations and loss of limbs
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Internal organ damage
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Nerve damage
• Soft tissue injuries
• Neck and back injuries

A victim’s injuries may result in life-altering impairments and disabilities. As a result, they may be entitled to substantial compensation for their injuries and damages.

What Damages Can I Receive for a Truck Accident Claim in Florida?

Florida personal injury laws provide for economic and non-economic damages, including:

• Scarring and disfigurement
• Impairments and disabilities
• Lost wages and benefits
• Diminished earning capacity
• Loss of enjoyment of life and quality of life
• Medical bills and expenses
• Long-term personal and nursing care
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress and mental anguish
• Out-of-pocket expenses
• Rehabilitative care and therapy

One or more parties may be liable for the damages caused by a truck accident. The truck driver, trucking company, other motorists, loaders, shippers, mechanics, and other parties may share the liability for a truck accident claim.

Contact Our Orlando [Truck Accident Law Firm For Help Today

If you’ve been injured in an accident in Orlando, Florida, and need legal help, contact our experienced truck accident lawyers at Payer Law Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today.

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