Are There Sleep Laws For Truck Drivers?

Thursday, July 10, 2025

Are There Sleep Laws For Truck Drivers?

Written by Malman Law, reviewed by Steve J. Malman.

Yes. Federal Hours of Service (HOS) regulations require truck drivers to rest to reduce fatigue-related accidents. These laws are enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), limiting how long drivers can stay on the road without sleep. Many long-haul truckers rely on sleeper cabs, a key part of how truckers sleep in their trucks, to meet these federally mandated rest periods.

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When drivers violate the law and cause injuries in a drowsy driving crash, you should immediately speak with a Chicago truck accident attorney from Malman Law.

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Our Chicago-based legal team is prepared to advocate for those harmed in truck accidents, offering guidance on next steps and pursuing compensation through a no-cost consultation.

Understanding Sleep Laws for Truck Drivers

Truck drivers must comply with HOS rules that include:

• 11-hour daily driving limit after 10 hours off duty.
• 14-hour maximum on-duty window.
• 30-minute rest break after 8 hours of driving.
• 60/70-hour weekly driving limit.

These rules ensure drivers sleep efficiently and adequately use their rest areas, typically sleeper cabs. 

Where do truck drivers sleep?

They rest inside sleeper cabs—compartments behind the driver’s seat, designed like compact bedrooms. These often contain beds, storage, lighting, electrical outlets, and sometimes appliances like mini-fridges or microwaves. APUs (Auxiliary Power Units) allow heating, cooling, and other amenities without running the main engine. Many drivers personalize these spaces for added comfort with bedding, curtains, and noise reduction.

Regulations

The FMCSA’s HOS regulations are detailed in 49 CFR Part 395. These rules are designed to ensure drivers have adequate rest and prevent fatigue-related accidents. For a comprehensive overview, refer to the FMCSA’s Summary of Hours of Service Regulations.

USA Truck Accidents Due to Sleepy Truck Drivers

Drowsy driving is a significant factor in truck accidents across the United States. Fatigue impairs reaction times and decision-making abilities, increasing the risk of collisions. The FMCSA estimates that driver fatigue contributes to 13% of large truck crashes.

Understanding Sleep Laws for Truck Drivers

In order to keep trucks and their drivers safe on the road, The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has instituted regulations around shift times and limits for property and passenger-carrying drivers. In addition to the regulations around drive time spent behind the wheel, there are also specific instructions on how many hours a truck driver must spend in the sleeper berth of the truck.

Truck drivers are required to a 10-hour period of time in which they are off duty. During this period of time, they are required to spend at least ten total hours in the sleeper berth of the truck. These regulations are meant to keep truck drivers from falling asleep at the wheel and from causing serious accidents when they are driving. They are also put in place for the safety and health of the drivers. The penalty for ignoring the rules of the FMCSA includes hefty fines and potentially the suspension of the driver’s license.

Malman Law’s founder Attorney Steven Malman has over 30 years of experience handling personal injury, nursing home, medical malpractice, premises liability, construction and workers’ compensation cases.

STEVE J. MALMAN

Founding Attorney

If a Truck Driver Falls Asleep at the Wheel

If a truck driver falls asleep at the wheel, they can be held liable for any resulting accidents. Victims may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. It’s crucial to consult with a legal professional to understand your rights and options.

Tips for Not Sleeping Under the Wheel

To prevent drowsy driving, truck drivers should:

• Adhere strictly to HOS regulations.
• Utilize sleeper cabs for adequate rest.
• Avoid driving during peak fatigue hours (midnight to 6 a.m.).
• Maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated.
• Park in secure areas for uninterrupted rest.

Contact a Skilled Truck Driver Accident Lawyer Right Away

If you have been involved in an accident in which the truck driver potentially fell asleep at the wheel, it is important to understand your legal rights. At Malman Law, our team of experienced legal professionals can help you to understand your options in the event of a truck driver accident. To schedule a free initial consultation, contact us as soon as possible. We are here and ready to help.