Understanding and following Hours of Service (HOS) rules is critical for both drivers and motor carriers. This class will explore the most common HOS violations—such as falsified logs, failure to use an ELD when required, and out-of-date driver logs—and walk participants through what causes them and how to prevent them. These aren’t just paperwork errors. When drivers log incorrectly or operate beyond their hours, it creates real safety risks, exposes the company to liability, and can lead to steep penalties, including fines and CSA score hits.

But HOS compliance isn’t just the driver’s job. Dispatchers, planners, and compliance staff all have a role to play. We’ll talk about how unrealistic trip planning and poor communication can set drivers up for failure—and how proactive auditing and training can prevent issues before they happen. Participants will learn how to identify red flags in logs (like excessive personal conveyance use or suspiciously short inspections), how to build schedules that align with legal limits, and what to do when something goes wrong.

Finally, we’ll examine the bigger picture: what happens if your company faces a crash or a DOT audit. From litigation risk to insurance increases and customer loss, we’ll show why HOS compliance must be a company-wide effort. This class gives every department—from leadership to dispatch—the tools and knowledge to protect your fleet, your reputation, and your bottom line.

ONLY $39:

HANDOUT SAMPLE

Chapter 2 Handout (PDF)

WHAT IS COVERED IN THIS CLASS?

Introduction / Prologue

Chapter 1: A History Lesson – Where did the rules come from?

Chapter 2: The Great Divide – How and when to use duty statuses

Chapter 3: More Than Just Driving – Who needs an ELD and why

Chapter 4: Splitting Time – How to do an split sleeper status

Chapter 5: Eight Days a Week – How a driver’s day can work

Chapter 6: Exception to the Rules – who qualifies for driving exemptions

Chapter 7: Truth or Consequences – What happens if HOS rules are not followed

CONTACT SAM: 

sam@wattsmen.com

612.619.1180