What do "hour of service" regulations govern?

"Hour of service" regulations are designed to ensure the safety of commercial drivers and other road users by governing the amount of time drivers can spend on the road and the required rest periods. These regulations specify the maximum driving time a driver can accumulate within a specific period and the minimum time they must rest before driving again. This is crucial to prevent fatigue, which can significantly impair a driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely.

The focus on driving time and required rest helps create a structured routine for drivers, promoting both their well-being and that of others on the road. The regulations are enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to maintain standards that protect public safety in the trucking industry.

The other options, while important aspects of trucking operations, do not fall under the purview of "hour of service." Truck maintenance relates to the mechanical upkeep of the vehicle, driver training pertains to the qualifications and education required for drivers, and road safety protocols encompass various regulations designed to enhance safety but do not specifically address driving time and rest requirements.