Truck Drivers Protest Mandated Electronic Logging Devices
Truck Drivers Protest Mandated Electronic Logging Devices

On December 18, a federal mandate requiring electronic logging devices (ELDs) in commercial trucks is scheduled to take effect. However, last Monday, truck drivers staged protests against the regulation at truck stops and state capitols around the country. These truckers and trucking companies are urging the Trump administration to delay the mandate.

What are Electronic Logging Devices?

ELDs are designed to automatically monitor the time truck drivers spend behind the wheel, in order to prevent drivers from going over their maximum driving hours. They would replace the paper logbooks many drivers use to log their driving hours, which are notorious for being falsified.

Most midsize and large trucking companies already use ELDs in their trucks. Most of the pushback against the regulation is coming from independent drivers and owner-operators. They cite the cost of the devices, along with the fact that they do not take into account delays, such as congestion from an accident, or an issue at a shipper or receiver. Because these drivers are paid by the mile rather than the hour, these delays can lose them money.

Fatigue Contributing to Truck Accidents

While the plight of these drivers is understandable, the rise in truck accidents in recent years cannot be ignored. Fatigue is frequently a factor in these crashes, including last year’s Desert Hot Springs tour bus crash, which killed 13 people. Investigators determined the truck driver who crashed into the tour bus had falsified his logbook. They also believe the tour bus driver may have dozed off behind the wheel.

It is not clear yet what the administration will do about the regulation. But if their track record on halting safety regulations is any indication, there is cause for concern.

“This reversal of policy away from safety is outrageous, but also sadly consistent with this administration’s hostile attitude toward consumer rights, voter rights and civil rights—continuing to put profits over people,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured in a truck accident and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, and Yucca Valley and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.

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