Possible Stupid Question HOS and the 30 minute break?

I'm getting back on the road, and haven't driven since the new regs ELDs came in. I know I need to take a 30 minute break at 8 hours, but not sure how that works?
Can I drive for 7 hours then take my 30? and then drive for 3.5 hours more?
Thanks

 

What does the regulations state?

 

Yes, but you'd have 4 hours of drive time available after that, so long as you have the hours available on your 14.

 

And remember it's a 1/2 hour break within 8 hiurs after you come on duty, not when you started driving.

 

And the 30 minute break is required EVERY 8 hrs, so if you take it before hour 6, you might have to take two of those beauties.....

 

I am a little embarrassed to admit that I don't know if it applies only to resuming of driving. For example, at 7th hour I arrive at the receiver and do unloading myself to get some work out for my body for additional 2 hours then I rest for 30 minutes in the sleeper awaiting the paperwork before leaving. Am I violating anything?

...

 

Heh, I can't tell if you're asking a trick question.

 

If you remain onduty after you arrived there after being onduty/driving for 7 hrs, yes you would be technically in violation.

 

If so there is a trap...you are stopped for a level 1 inspection at De Soto, IA scale at 7:35 minutes while on Duty. You were hoping to make it to exit 125 to rest at Love's but they give you 30 minute inspection....well you are over your 8 hours, compliments of IDOT.

Conclusion: Better take that 30 min ASAP.

 

All of the HOS limits only apply to driving time...which is why they state you "may not DRIVE" unless you've had such and such break, be it the 10 hr or 30 min. Even the 70/8 only applies to drive time.

For example, you can go on duty and drive for 7.5 hours, spend the next 3 hours on line 4 unloading, and you haven't violated anything because you haven't driven without the break. Rest for 30, and then you can drive right up to the 14th hour. Stop and go to line 4 for as long as you need to do your post trip, paperwork, perform any repairs, etc...even if it's another 6-8 hours or more...and then go off duty and/or sleeper for 10. As long as you still have hours available under your 70/8, you're free to start driving again as soon as that 10 is up. You can exceed the HOS on line 4 all you want. Just make sure you have the necessary break before you drive again.