Truck Driving Rules – How Long Can a Driver Stay Behind the Wheel in Canada?

Truck Driving Rules – How Long Can a Driver Stay Behind the Wheel in Canada?

Truck drivers in Canada are crucial to the country’s growth and survival. The country lacks reliable train and railway networks, so it relies heavily on trucks and roads for goods transport. Also, trucks and trailers are responsible for the transportation of goods across Canada. Everything, including consumer goods, dairy products, fresh produce, industrial materials, and livestock, is transported through these vehicles.

Truck leasing companies, like Alberta Truck Lease, are essential in providing truck drivers the opportunity to contribute to the industry. However, the maximum consecutive hours a truck driver can spend behind the wheel are regulated by the Canadian Government. If you want to know more about the time a truck driver can spend behind the wheel in Canada, make sure to read to the end:

How Many Hours Can a Truck Driver Spend Behind the Wheel? The Rules of Engagement

In Canada, there are strict rules about how long a driver can drive a commercial vehicle. Also, these rules apply to truck drivers in both interprovincial and international commutes. Keeping in mind that Canada has some of the longest truck routes, these rules and regulations make sense for driver and road safety.

The key provisions of the Canadian hours of service rules are as follows:

  • Maximum Daily Driving Time: Any driver can drive for a maximum of 13 hours per day.
  • Mandatory Daily Off-duty Time: All drivers are required to take at least 10 consecutive hours off-duty every day. This is mandatory and must be documented.
  • Cycle Limit: A cycle is a period of 14 days. So, having accumulated 70 on-duty hours in a cycle, drivers must take a break.
  • Weekly Off-duty Time: All truck drivers must take at least 24 consecutive hours off-duty every week. Also, this can be extended to 36 consecutive hours off-duty every second week.
  • Rest Break Rule: Truck drivers in Canada must take breaks of at least 30 minutes after driving for 5 hours. This applies to city, intercity, and interprovincial routes.

These rules are in place to ensure that commercial truck drivers have high levels of energy gained through property resting and breaks. Also, this helps to reduce the risk of accidents caused by driver fatigue. To promote safe driving practices, all truck drivers and their employers must abide by these rules. Failure to comply can result in penalties and fines.

What Should Truck Drivers in Canada Be Concerned About?

Canada has some of the longest truck routes. The country’s geography and transportation systems play a vital role in it having long trucking routes. The lack of trains and railway networks encourages truck drivers to transport all the heavy loads. Also, truck driving is quite a lucrative industry in Canada. So, the government is obliged to put some rules and regulations in place.

The number of hours truck drivers can drive is regulated in Canada. These practices ensure the needs of the transportation industry are met while promoting the safety and well-being of drivers. Also, by following truck driving rules, the safety of others on the road can be enhanced as well. Top concerns for truck drivers in Canada include:

Fatigue

Extended periods of driving lead to fatigue. Also, fatigue reduces a truck driver’s ability to focus, react quickly, and make sound decisions. So, when driving with fatigue, truck drivers are more likely to make mistakes and make mistakes.

Health Concerns

Spending long hours behind the wheel of a large truck can also result in various health issues. Some concerning conditions include obesity, heart disease, and musculoskeletal problems. Additionally, drivers may be exposed to pollution and other health hazards.

Mental Health Concerns

Long-haul truck drivers spend days in isolation. When on longer interprovince and possibly international routes, they can be separated from their families and loved ones for weeks. This gives rise to anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Also, it must be managed well.

Compliance

Non-compliance with regulations regarding maximum driving hours can result in fines and penalties. Also, these fines can be applied to both the driver and their employer company.

Managing Productivity

Longer driving hours can lead to burnout, decreased job satisfaction, and turnover. So, the short-term increased productivity by putting truck drivers behind the week for longer will be a downing factor going forward.

How Can Truck Drivers in Canada Reduce Fatigue?

Get Enough Rest: Sleep routines contribute to stress and fatigue in many ways. Quality sleep of 7-8 hours every night is necessary for truckers. Also, a regular sleep schedule is necessary for a healthy body.

Take Regular Breaks: Regular breaks can help prevent fatigue keeping truck drivers focused. Take a 10–15-minute break every couple of hours. Stretch, walk around, or do some light exercise in this time.

Stay Hydrated: Canada has a cold climate. So, many truck drivers will ignore the importance of staying hydrated. When you are dehydrated, there will be health concerns. So, drink plenty of fluids.

Pay Attention to Your Diet: Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein are much more effective than greasy meals when it comes to managing fatigue. Keep your diet balanced for the best results.

Maintain an Active Lifestyle: An active lifestyle helps manage stress and fatigue more efficiently. Be involved in an active lifestyle. Walk, jog, and exercise in the gym, or do whatever you want to stay active.

Take Regular Naps: Short 20-30 minutes naps can increase productivity and energy levels. Take regular naps during the day when resting.

Manage Stress Properly: Manage your stress properly. Deep breathing, meditation, or listening to calming music usually help. Plan work and private life efficiently. Stress can promote fatigue.

Looking for the Best Truck Leasing Solution in Alberta?

Alberta Truck Lease is one of the best truck and trailer leasing and financing companies in the province. We provide the best opportunities for truck drivers to own their dream vehicles. Our optimized payment plans are available tailored to your requirements. Also, we have some of the most advanced trucks available for all preferences. Our trucks have advanced features, allowing drivers to stay stress and fatigue-free. Call us now to find out more about how you can own a truck in Alberta.

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