Electronic Logging Devices Now Mandatory for Commercial Truck Drivers

Posted on behalf of Pfeifer Morgan & Stesiak

on January 21, 2016

. Updated on March 23, 2022

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The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has adopted a Final Rule which will require commercial truck drivers to use electronic logging devices. It is estimated that this Final Rule will save 26 lives and stop 562 injuries from taking place.

If you are looking for an experienced truck accident attorney in South Bend, contact Pfeifer, Morgan & Stesiak’s for qualified legal help. Our truck accident attorneys can help your claim and will work to hold the at-fault driver liable while helping you recover the compensation you deserve.  after a collision with a negligent truck driver

How Electronic Logs Work

With electronic logging technology on board, driving time is recorded automatically. This technology oversees the number of hours the truck’s engine is in operation, and tracks the vehicle’s movement as well as its location. All commercial truck drivers are required to switch from handwritten logs to electronic logs within two years.

Improving Roadway Safety

truck driver electronic logging devicesThis measure has been implemented to improve safety and prevent hours-of-service violations. When commercial drivers violate hours-of-service rules, fatigue is likely to occur, which is a major contributor to many accidents involving large trucks.

 

Improving the Trucking Industry

The Final Rule is expected to have a great positive impact on the trucking industry. The implementation of electronic logs may save the industry around $1 billion annually by reducing the amount of paperwork required.

These devices will automatically create support documents that aid trucking companies, such as logging fuel purchases and shipping documents. The measure also includes protection for truck drivers aimed at preventing harassment related to information recorded by the logging devices.

Electronic logs will also benefit law enforcement officers. These logs will be able to be reviewed more efficiently by officers, compared to logs written by hand.

Strengthening Accident Claims

Electronic logging devices will create verifiable records of a commercial driver’s on duty and off duty hours, which will help attorneys build stronger trucking accident cases.

Experienced Truck Accident Lawyers

Have you or a loved one been injured in a collision involving a commercial truck? You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. A South Bend personal injury lawyer from Pfeifer, Morgan & Stesiak will work diligently to get you the justice you deserve. Call today for a free consultation.

Call (574) 444-0741 today.

Pfeifer, Morgan & Stesiak

Serious Attorneys for Serious Cases