Electronic logging device (ELD) regulations are designed to curb truck accidents caused by drowsy driving. However, some trucking companies are sidestepping these rules. To address this issue, The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has urged the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to implement tougher ELD rules.
The NTSB's recommendations come on the heels of a tragic December 2022 crash on I-64 in Virginia. A fatigued truck driver crashed into a bus and claimed the lives of three passengers. Before the crash occurred, the driver exceeded the FMCSA's 14-hour driving limit four times and surpassed the 11-hour limit three times.
Trucking company caught creating fake driver accounts in ELD system
After a 20-month investigation, the NTSB found that Illinois-based trucking company Triton Logistics Incorporated had been creating fictitious driver accounts in its ELD system. These fake accounts allowed truckers to keep driving beyond their federal hours-of-service (HOS) limits. This practice left drivers with little time to rest and recover.
Triton's management instructed its drivers to manipulate ELD logs whenever they went over their legal drive-time limits. The NTSB report explained how drivers would call the company's HOS department, which would log them into an alternate driver account. This backdoor maneuver allowed them to keep driving as though they had more hours left in their shifts.
How are federal regulators handling violations of ELD rules?
In the wake of the 2022 fatal truck accident, Triton was hit with a fine of $36,170 and handed a "conditional" safety rating. This rating means the company lacks adequate controls to ensure it follows safety standards. The company also received a citation for failing to conduct post-crash alcohol testing.
To prevent future tragedies, the NTSB has recommended that FMCSA revise ELD rules. One of the main suggestions is to require ELD providers to create an audit log that tracks important information, such as the time of driver logins, who logged in, and any changes made to driver accounts. By keeping a closer eye on this data, regulators can spot and prevent fraud.
The NTSB also advised that Virginia should offer new trucking companies safety guidance on HOS compliance, fatigue management, and vehicle maintenance. For Triton Logistics specifically, the board suggested implementing a more robust fatigue management program and using onboard video recorders to monitor drivers' behavior behind the wheel.
Additionally, the NTSB urged the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to complete performance standards for forward collision avoidance systems in commercial vehicles. The board also wants trucking companies to equip all trucks over 10,000 lbs. with onboard video recorders.
Why do drivers violate ELD rules?
Trucking companies aren't the only ones to blame for these violations. Drivers often feel financial pressure to push their limits. Since drivers are paid by the mile, they stand to earn more money by driving longer hours. This creates a dangerous financial incentive to keep driving even when they're fatigued.
Fatigued driving often leads to:
- Slower reaction time
- Poor judgment of speed, distances, and situations on the road
- Higher risk of drifting out of lanes, missing critical stops, or even falling asleep behind the wheel
- Microsleeps that cause momentary loss of vehicle control
Fight for your rightful compensation after an Indiana truck accident
Injured in a truck accident in Indiana? The impact extends far beyond your immediate injuries and damages. The trucking companies and their insurance teams may work tirelessly to minimize or deny your claim. However, the Indiana truck accident lawyers at Boughter Sinak, LLC are here to tip the scales in your favor. Our skilled attorneys are committed to securing the compensation you need to recover and rebuild your life.
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