easy HOS/logbook question
 

I changed to a different type of logbook the other day and I noticed something in the recap section where you total the driving and on duty not driving for the last 7 days.

What if I reset 3 days ago? Do I still include the hours prior to the reset?

You keep the hours listed in the recap for the last eight days. After a restart you only include the hours after the restart when you calculate hours available to work.

I would make sure and note the restart on your log at the time you made it.

yes that's what I've been doing. Thanks

DOT doesn't require a recap...so do it however you want 8)

yep, dot man told me that they do not look at your recap, they figure it themselves..

You don't have to fill out the recap but you do have to forward the last eight days onto the current log sheet. Yes GMAN you're right I always list the restart on the log sheet for the day off and make sure to put the time the 34 hours expires so I don't accidently go on duty too early when I go back to work.

That is the very definition of a recap, and is not required. The only thing that is required on the current log sheet is the activity that is happening that day. Nothing from the prior 8 days is required.

This is one of the biggest problems in our industry. I have been told by a DOT officer here in Virginia to get my current log page filled out or he would write me up. He said the recap (the one on the inside cover of the logbook) was optional but he had to see the forwarded hours on the current sheet. No two people (officers) will give you the same answer. The regulations are DOT but each state adds their own take and special rules and each officer interprets the regulations differently. Its pretty bad when the law cannot even figure out what they are enforcing. I am stating that if you complete the page fully filling in all blanks your azz will be covered.

Not all logbooks have the recap on the inside cover. Not all logbooks even have the recap on each individual log page. They are most certainly not required by the FMCSA.

If the officer needs to know what you did the past 8 days, then he can look at the logs he has right in front of him. I'm sure he has a calculator, or can add 8 numbers in his head. If he can't, then loan him yours.

The company I pull for, however, requires that the recap be filled out. This is company policy, though, and doesn't reflect any FMCSA regulation.

Yes, it is frustrating, but when push comes to shove, it isn't up to the officer to interpret the regulations. They are there to enforce the regulations, and the courts are there to interpret them. The driver, however, gets stuck inbetween. Over time, the FMCSA comes up with interpretations to their own rules, based upon issues that arise.

Can't disagree with that. :wink: