California Group Backs Data Recorders

The largest state trucking association has become the second carrier group to support the use of electronic on-board recorders to monitor compliance with hours of service regulations — with some caveats.

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In a policy statement approved June 30 by its board of directors, the 2,500-member California Trucking Association joined the Arkansas Trucking Association in conditionally backing the use of the controversial “black boxes.” The policy statement was made public July 12.

Both trucking groups want the mandate to kick in at the same time for carriers of all types and sizes. DOT wants recorders installed in trucks operating in long-haul and regional operations and gives carriers from two-and-a-half years and four-and-a-half years to install the recorders, depending on fleet size. The Arkansas group endorsed the use of recorders May 18.

CTA’s hours platform states that the data collected with the recorders should be used for hours-of-service enforcement only and not for enforcement of other laws or accident reconstruction. While DOT wants the recorders to monitor drivers’ work and rest hours, CTA says carriers should be allowed to install equipment that records information of use to drivers and carriers.

For the full story, see the July 17 print edition of Transport Topics. Subscribe today.