A Couple of Questions

I found this in a FMCSA Handout:

You may also use the sleeper berth in a different way to get the "equivalent of at least 10 consecutive hours off duty." To do this, two rest periods are required. You must spend at least one of the two required rest periods in your sleeper berth. The required rest period in the sleeper berth must be at least 8 consecutive hours (but less than 10 consecutive hours). This rest period will not count as part of the 14 hours. The other, separate, rest period must be at least 2 consecutive hours (but less than 10 consecutive hours). This rest period may be spent in the sleeper berth, off duty, or sleeper berth and off duty combined. It [FONT=LCHEJ H+ Times,Times][FONT=LCHEJ H+ Times,Times]will [/FONT][/FONT]count as part of the 14 hours (unless you spend at least 8 consecutive hours in the sleeper berth). It does not matter which rest period you take first. After you complete your second required rest period, you will have a new point on the clock from which to calculate your hours available. This new "calculation point" will be at the time you completed your first required rest period.

So according to this you can split the 8/2 anyway. It doesn't say anything about the 8 being first..So you could take the 2 at like your 5 hour drive then finish your 11 and take the 8... Or take the 8 first and extend your 14....[FONT=LCFLB B+ Times,Times][FONT=LCFLB B+ Times,Times]
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So just to clarify.... It is not required to stop every 3 hours and inspect your vehicle, however it may be something that is required by your company? I am still confused on this issue.... Although I have no doubt that if I take a pit stop or something I will do a quick walk around, but I am used to driving 10 hours without even stopping so if I am on a roll like that I would hate to have to stop if its not required.....

James


EDIT: The only thing I have been able to find on this issue is if it is very hot, to stop every 2 hours or 100 miles and inspect the tires. So I will call the En-Route inspections rule BUNK....

Thanks everyone for your help