“Over the course of six weeks, these drivers will help us make sure the study plans, training materials, and data collection tools are clear, practical, and ready for broader rollout,” FMCSA said.

About the Pilot Programs

This short pre-testing phase supports the development of the Flexible Sleeper Berth and Split Duty Period pilot programs. Both are part of the U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy’s Pro-Trucker Package.

The pilots aim to test alternatives to current HOS rules. The goal is to improve working conditions and flexibility for truck drivers while keeping safety levels equal to or higher than existing standards.

FMCSA is partnering with the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute (VTTI) to design and conduct these pilot programs. Driver feedback during this pre-test will help identify any issues with training materials or data collection before the broader rollout.

Who FMCSA Needs

The Agency is seeking:

• Nine drivers currently using split sleeper berth schedules (“8/2” or “7/3”) who are willing to test new split options (“6/4” and “5/5”) for six weeks.
• Nine drivers who drive up to the end of their 14-hour on-duty window and are interested in testing a new option to “pause” that window for 30 minutes minimum and up to 3 hours maximum by taking an extra break either:
  • off-duty or in the sleeper berth at any location, or
  • on-duty (not driving) at a pickup or delivery location.

Apply to Participate

Drivers interested in the pre-test can complete the online screening forms here:

• Flexible Sleeper Berth Online Screening Questionnaire
• Split Duty Period Online Screening Questionnaire

This is a unique opportunity for professional truck drivers to provide input on HOS rules and help shape programs designed to make OTR trucking safer and more flexible.

Source: The Trucker

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