Clarification on sleeper berth rules

Discussion in 'Trucking Industry Regulations' started by TICC, Nov 29, 2019.

  1. TICC

    TICC Bobtail Member

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    Is it legal/DOT compliant for a company to call while a driver is sleeping and in the middle of their sleeper berth, to wake them up and have them do non-driving work (example: trailer has frozen brakes and they want the driver to take a torch to them to fix it.)? Also, calling in the middle of sleeper berth to discuss loads for the next day?
    Confused on this as it was my understanding sleeper berth you are not to be disturbed.
    Any information is appreciated.
     
  2. kemosabi49

    kemosabi49 Trucker Forum STAFF Staff Member

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    Yes they can call you but if they want you to do work related to the truck, you can tell them "Ok. But I will log myself On Duty and then start my break all over again when I'm done". Or if they make a habit out of it, tell them you are too tired to drive because they didn't let you get proper rest.
     
    gentleroger and Bean Jr. Thank this.
  3. JoeTruck

    JoeTruck Heavy Load Member

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    Find another job. After ten hours they can call you.
    Make sure you blead the water out and don't set the trailer when its cold.
     
  4. Bean Jr.

    Bean Jr. Road Train Member

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    Speaking on the phone does not interrupt sleeper berth Screenshot_20191129-091517_Chrome.jpg
     
    ZVar Thanks this.
  5. Accidental Trucker

    Accidental Trucker Road Train Member

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    How can they call you if your phone is on silent?
     
  6. TICC

    TICC Bobtail Member

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    Thank you for the clarification everyone.
     
  7. ZVar

    ZVar Road Train Member

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    And as for the fixing brakes... From FMCSA part 395.2

    On-duty time means all time from the time a driver begins to work or is required to be in readiness to work until the time the driver is relieved from work and all responsibility for performing work. On-duty time shall include:
    (2) All time inspecting, servicing, or conditioning any commercial motor vehicle at any time;

    My suggestion is put the phone on do not disturb, let the wife's calls in but everything else makes no noise. You can respond in the morning....
     
  8. d281833

    d281833 Heavy Load Member

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    Turn it off or DND
     
  9. Judge

    Judge Road Train Member

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    Click the quarter moon symbol, puts it on night mode, shows calls/text makes no noise, or just turn it down, when you get up, you can call back.
     
  10. Cabinover101

    Cabinover101 Heavy Load Member

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    We should be able to call the FHWA officials in the middle of the night ~ just sayin