Drowsy driving is a silent threat on America's highways, and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is taking a huge step to stop it. In 2025, the FMCSA officially launched a nationwide campaign that is focused on reducing fatigue-related accidents among commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers.
At Americas Best Trucking, safety is not just a priority; it is the foundation of everything we do. That is why we are sharing important details of this initiative and what it means for you, your truck, and your time on the road.
Why the FMCSA is Sounding the Alarm
Each year, drowsy or fatigued driving contributes to thousands of accidents, many of them involving commercial trucks. According to the FMVSA, studies show that staying awake for 18 hours can impair your driving as much as a blood alcohol content of 0.08%.
That is why the new "Your Wake-Up Call" campaign is hitting the highways with this message:
"If you're tired, don't drive. It's that simple."
The Campaign Goals
· Raise awareness about the dangers of drowsy driving
· Promote proper rest and trip planning for CMV drivers
· Encourage the use of Hours-of-Service (HOS) regulations as a safety net, not just an inconvenience
· Partner with carriers and industry leaders to improve driver health and wellness programs
What To Expect
The campaign will include:
· PSAs and educational videos
· Billboards and signs in high-traffic freight corridors
· Outreach to truck stops, weigh stations, and trucking events
· Updated safety tips and downloadable resources on the FMCSA website
· Partnerships with trucking companies and dispatch agencies
If you drive for or partner with a company like Americas Best Trucking, you will likely see campaign materials integrated into safety meetings, dispatch reminders, and driver newsletters.
How to Protect Yourself from Fatigue Behind the Wheel
Here are a few tips to help you stay alert behind the wheel:
· Stick to your HOS regulations – they are in place for your safety, not just compliance.
· Schedule your drive times around your natural sleep patterns whenever possible.
· Watch for early signs of fatigue, such as heavy eyes, yawning, and drifting out of your lane.
· Take short naps (20-30 minutes) when needed.
· Avoid heavy meals before driving, and be sure to stay hydrated.
· Don't rely on caffeine or energy drinks to stay awake; they are short-term fixes, not a solution.
Americas Best Trucking's Commitment to Safety
As a trusted Landstar agent, Americas Best Trucking is fully aligned with the FMCSA's efforts to help promote safety while on the road. We encourage all our drivers and owner-operators to:
· Prioritize rest
· Speak up when you need a break
· Utilize support from dispatch that is based on your safety, not forced pressure
We are proud to operate under a non-forced dispatch model, giving you the control to rest when you need to, without risking your load, your paycheck, or your safety.
The FMCSA's campaign is a reminder that your safety, and the safety of others, depends on your ability to make smart, rested decisions when you're behind the wheel.
At Americas Best Trucking, we are here to support your journey every mile of the way. Whether you're running long-haul or local routes, let's work together to keep fatigue off the road and ensure every trip is a safe one.