ATA Cites Qualified Support of EOBR Rule

American Trucking Associations told the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration that while it supports the agency’s proposal to require electronic devices to record drivers’ hours of service, it also is urging FMCSA to address important device design and performance requirements.

ATA raised a number of “serious concerns about the supporting documents component of the proposal.” Specifically, it pointed out that FMCSA’s proposal to require devices such as electronic onboard recorders (EOBRs), did not meet requirements mandated by Congress.

“ATA supports FMCSA’s proposal to mandate electronic logging devices [but FMCSA] must address some of the device design and performance specifications which are critical to the success of such a mandate,” ATA said in comments filed Monday, when the comment period closed.

Such issues include a more secure driver identification and authentication process, and improved standards to ensure devices such as EOBRs are not prone to tampering or fraud, ATA said.

Overall trucking industry reaction to the proposed logging-device rule has been largely divided between drivers who don’t like the idea of a “robot” in the tractor cab and executives with large motor carriers who generally welcome the technology as a safety tool.

Many truck drivers who commented on the proposed EOBR and supporting documents rule viewed such devices as an example of “big government” getting into their business.

Some drivers said they could not afford the cost of installing EOBRs on their trucks, while others predicted the rule would cause drivers to leave the business. Several questioned the mandate at a time when fatal truck accidents are at an all time historical low.

Managers of large fleets said they believe EOBRs will make the highways safer and help ensure that their drivers aren’t fudging on their log books or driving while fatigued.

The rule will require nearly all interstate motor carriers to install EOBRs on their trucks within three years after it becomes final as soon as later this year.