Controversial Truck Speed Limiter Rule Faces Another Delay

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The controversial truck speed limiter rule from the federal government is facing yet another delay and is now expected to be published in May. Initially slated for mid-2023, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) postponed it to December 29 of the previous year. However, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation's latest report, it will take another five months or possibly longer.

The rule itself would mandate electronic speed governors in trucks weighing over 26,000 pounds, setting a maximum speed that is yet to be determined. Owner-operators argue that this would restrict driving flexibility and potentially lead to more accidents. On the other hand, safety groups and larger carriers, who often set their limits for safety and economic reasons, support a federal mandate.

In addition to the speed limiter rule, FMCSA has also delayed a proposed rule on autonomous trucking, now scheduled for March, and a rule on carrier safety fitness, set for June 2025, which comes after the comment period ended in October 2023.

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WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT FOR MY INDUSTRY?

Safety is a big deal, no doubt. Some reckon that these speed limiters could make things safer on the road, cutting down on accidents. But on the flip side, others, like owner-operators, say it might cramp their style and could even cause more problems.

The money side of things matters too. Trucking companies are watching this closely because if the rule kicks in, it could mean changes in how they run their show. Things like delivery schedules and fuel use might need a rethink. Rules and regulations change over time, right? Staying on top of what's new in the world of trucking rules is a must.

🔥 OUR HOT TAKE?

Sure, safety matters - of course! But this heavy-handed approach won't necessarily make the roads safer. The government still can't decide how slow they want these trucks to go, and they expect everyone to just follow suit. Owner-operators may be right to be furious. This rule could even lead to more accidents. Imagine being stuck behind one of these snails on the highway… It's a recipe for road rage. The government's obsession with speed limiters is like trying to cure a headache with a sledgehammer.

BUT… on the other hand, safety groups and the bigger trucking companies are all for it. They've already set their limits for safety and profit, and to be frank… it seems that they want to impose their one-size-fits-all solution on everyone else.

In the end, this speed limiter saga seems to have become a regulatory circus.