U.S. Electronic Logging Device Regulation to Impact Canadian Drivers
In December of 2015, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration announced the adoption of new regulations that would require all truckers to use electronic logging devices (ELDs) by 2017. These regulations not only impact U.S. truck drivers, but Canadian drivers who operate on U.S. roads as well.
The basic purpose of ELDs is to allow truckers to track their hours of service, automating the process and making it easier for safety inspectors to spot any violations. The new regulations do the following:
- Require all commercial truck and bus drivers to use ELDs to log their hours in lieu of paper books.
- Protect drivers from any harassment initiated by carriers as a result of information generated by ELDs.
- Set technology specifications for ELDs in order to give manufacturers knowledge of what a compliant device looks like.
- Establish supporting documents for hours of service, like shipping documents and fuel purchase receipts.
The adoption of the FMCSA’s ELD regulation has reignited Canadian outcry for similar mandates. For over a decade, Canadian trucking organizations have lobbied for the use of ELDs, and now argue that the new U.S. regulation justifies Canadian laws that are consistent with neighbouring countries.
And, while former Canadian Prime Minster Stephen Harper’s government had indicated its support of ELD regulations, no confirmed talks have taken place under Justin Trudeau’s new government. Regardless, in order to remain compliant, it’s important that all Canadian drivers operating in the United States review the new legislation and ensure that the proper ELD equipment is installed.
For more information, contact Adam Fowler at afowler@lloydsadd.com.