The ban of cell phones is but the first of a series of anticipated regulations. It provides for penalties for both the driver and the company. The Hours of Service final regulations are to be issued by the end of December. They were to be issued in July, then October, then November. When issued, they will frame the work day for commercial drivers and change the operations of many companies. When the regulations are released, check here for a summary.
Future regulations will address driver physical examinations. It is anticipated that examiners will have be pass an test to ensure their knowledge of the requirements and procedures. Examinations are anticipated to being limited to those performed by accredited examiners. Also, it is anticipated that examiners will submit the results to a database. Not only will the database provide for an analysis by examiners (is this doctor passing everyone?), but also identify drivers who fail an exam, but pass a second exam by a second examiner shortly after the first exam.
The road ahead is paved with yet more regulation. We will keep working to keep you up to date.
