What do the Hours of Service (HOS) rules primarily regulate?

The Hours of Service (HOS) rules are designed to ensure safe transportation by regulating the number of hours that drivers can operate commercial vehicles. Specifically, these regulations determine how long drivers can be on duty, how long they must take breaks, and how much rest they must have between shifts. This is crucial for preventing fatigue, which can lead to accidents and pose risks to both drivers and other road users.

By limiting the number of consecutive driving hours and mandating rest periods, the HOS rules aim to manage driver fatigue effectively and promote safety in the transportation industry. While they may touch on aspects like rest periods and overall conditions, the core focus is the regulation of operational hours for drivers.