NTSB Says Parking Shortage Problem Could Grow Worse With Hours Reform

WASHINGTON — The National Transportation Safety Board said the federal government can alter the hours of service to require more time off for truckers, but drivers will not be able to stop and sleep unless a solution is found for the shortage of parking spaces for commercial vehicles in some areas.

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In a report issued May 17, the board called for elimination of some states’ rest area time limits, more shipper involvement in truck parking issues, a removal of the federal ban on private rest facilities on Interstate roads and creation of a guide for truckers on places to sleep.

NTSB Chairman James E. Hall said he was encouraged at the end of April, when the Department of Transportation released its long-awaited revisions to the rules governing how long truckers can work. However, he acknowledged that “it would be irresponsible of DOT and of this board if we didn’t at the same time closely look at rest areas and the availability of places for drivers to sleep.”

David Osiecki, vice president of safety policy for American Trucking Associations, said the proposed rules could actually make the parking situation worse.

For the full story, see the May 22 print edition of Transport Topics. Subscribe today.