Catching up your log book

My advice is just to keep it legal. When you meet up with an inspector who decides to go over your logs very thoroughly, you will have nothing to worry about.

 

I used to have problems forgetting to change my duty status whe I would start driving. I got in the habit of laying my clipboard on the dash across the top of my steering wheel so I would have to pick it up before I pulled out and that would remind me to update.

A little off topic but it is what helps me keep current.

 

Out of context - you're still getting whacked, AND can still be placed out of service - that statute is to make sure you don't CONTINUE to drive without having your book current, having you make it current (including previous days, if need be) before continuing.

The only things in question here is whether you'll send a check or money order to pay the ticket, and how you'll deal with the CSA points.

 

My logbook is always up to date. I never take off without changing it. Its basically second nature to me.

 

I'm the same way, but it still doesn't mean you won't forget someday. That happened to me in IN. Had everything filled out and thought I was all set. Indiana gave me the red light, dot officer jumps up on the running board asks if my log is up to date and I said yes. He takes my log, tells me to park and they're going to do a driver only. No problem, no violations, take everything back to the truck, open the log to update my status and there I see it. When I started my day 45 minutes before, I forgot to start my grid. Sometimes they go by the letter of the law and sometimes the spirit. Before you take the chance, ask yourself, "Do I feel lucky today?"

 

At the end of the day, best thing is to be squared away. Just remember, no matter where ya go there ya are! Do it right get more miles!

 

Maintaining an up to date logbook thru last status change takes literally seconds...CYA takes seconds and can avoid hours of headaches...

Not saying this is you in any way, but if someone, anyone, finds they can't do that, quit, you're in over your head and probably borderline retarded...

 

Cutyards,

After reading some of the replys to your question...
I have been out of trucking for 7 years (due to work oversesas) but I drove OTR for 15 years prior to this and I can tell you that you do not want to play games with the DOT. Keep your logbook up to date as of the last change of duty status. Don't go over your hours. Always make sure your log, your truck, and your load are legal and if your logbook neat and easy to read you'll be just fine where the DOT is concerned. In the 15 years I drove (and I'm coming back because it's in my blood) I only had 1 time where I could have been busted BIG TIME in Calif. It was my fault and I was REAL lucky. I never took that chance again. Do not let your boss ramrod you into doing something that can get you into trouble with the DOT. And as Red Simpson's song goes... "And don't... fall asleep at the wheel".