Several fleet executives have come forward saying that the most recent HOS rule changes have slashed driver productivity, and makes it difficult to recruit and retain drivers.
“The hours-of-service changes could not have come at a worse time,” said Dave Geyer, senior vice-president/general manager of Schneider’s van truckload division, based in San Diego, CA. “We now need more drivers to do the same amount of work, but regulations, economic conditions and demographics are working against us in terms of recruiting new drivers. Those who do answer the call deserve an attractive wage and good benefits, but we’re being restricted in the number of miles we can give them and the ongoing challenges that come with sharply rising operating costs.”
This is stems from a largely from drivers who say that the mandated 30 minute break does not make them safer, and is cutting into their take home pay. Drivers running local or regional routes are not affected by these changes, it is the long haul drivers that are raising these questions. But despite these issues, fleets have been expanding and upgrading their equipment, most likely in an attempt to attract new drivers.
