Why are Hours of Service Rules implemented?

The implementation of Hours of Service Rules primarily aims to keep fatigued drivers off the roadways. These regulations establish limits on the number of hours a driver can operate a commercial vehicle within a given timeframe, as well as mandatory rest periods, all designed to reduce the risk of accidents caused by driver fatigue. Fatigue can significantly impair a driver's alertness, reaction time, and overall judgment, which can lead to dangerous situations on the road. By enforcing these rules, the intention is to promote safer driving conditions for everyone on the road, ultimately protecting not only the drivers but also passengers and pedestrians.

Options focusing on streamlining delivery processes, ensuring vehicle maintenance, or enforcing speed limits, while important in their own contexts, do not address the direct issue of driver fatigue, which is the core concern the Hours of Service Rules are designed to mitigate.