3 Changes to Trucking Rules for COVID-19
Federal and state governments have made numerous changes to their rules for truckers to facilitate deliveries of goods to alleviate critical shortages. However, this could pose more dangers to drivers on the road, and it may not relieve trucking companies of the liability that they would face in the event of an accident. While the drivers are doing the best they can while operating under extreme stress, they are more prone to accidents, even though commercial trucking activity is operating at only 83% of its normal level due to the coronavirus.1. CDL Waivers
The federal government has made it easier for drivers to have their CDL renewed. Ordinarily, they would need to take an exam to earn a new commercial driver's license. However, the government has recognized the difficulty of administering exams during this time when truckers are critically needed, and it is difficult to have someone in the cab of the truck administering the exam. The government has automatically extended all CDLs that expire on or after March 1, 2020. These licenses are extended right now through the end of June. Those who have expired commercial learners' permits do not need to take a test for the renewal of their permit. In addition, CDL examiners can now administer tests from outside the cab of the truck. They can even administer testing online or virtually. They do not need to be physically sitting next to the driver when giving the exam. However, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has urged states to supervise these exams as closely as possible, perhaps by having examiners follow the truck closely during the examination. It is the states that have the responsibility to conduct CDL tests. However, state agencies are struggling with a lack of employees right now as people stay home and some state employees are sickened. State offices are closed, and it is too risky to open up some of these offices right now. States will still be able to administer knowledge tests, and the federal government now allows third parties to give these tests and has waived certain training requirements for them.2. Weight Limits Have Been Suspended
States have also given waivers or changed rules for trucks that are over the maximum allowable weight limits. This waiver extends to trucks that are transporting COVID-19 relief supplies. Each state has a different definition of what constitutes relief supplies. Heavier trucks present more of a danger for drivers on the road. There is more of a likelihood that auto drivers will suffer serious injury if they are involved in an accident with that truck. Pennsylvania has issued its own rules that have permitted trucks with higher weights on the road. In Pennsylvania, the state suspended the weight limits for certain trucks participating in hauling COVID-19 relief supplies. The definition in the state order includes trucks that are restocking food and fuel. This category encompasses many of the trucks that are on the road. Other categories of trucks will still need to comply with the relevant weight limits. These changes are a reflection of the fact that regulators must weigh the public interest against the need to regulate. Here, the government has determined that the need for COVID-19 supplies temporarily outweighs the safety needs of drivers on the road.3. Rest Requirements Have Been Relaxed

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