ELD goes down mid-trip? Here’s exactly what to do.
Immediate Steps
- Note the malfunction in your ELD (if possible)
- Reconstruct logs for the current 24-hour period
- Continue trip using paper logs
- Notify carrier within 24 hours
Paper Log Requirements
During malfunction, you must:
- Maintain paper RODS (Record of Duty Status)
- Include all required information:
- Graph grid
- Driver info and signature
- Vehicle info
- Carrier info
- Shipping documents reference
The 8-Day Rule
Per FMCSA ELD rules:
- You have 8 days to repair or replace the ELD
- After 8 days, vehicle cannot be operated
What Constitutes a Malfunction?
- Device won’t power on
- GPS not recording location
- Engine connection lost
- Data transfer not working
- Screen unreadable
Documentation is Key
Keep records of:
- When malfunction occurred
- Steps taken to address it
- Repair receipts/documentation
- All paper logs during the period
Inspection Considerations
If inspected with malfunctioning ELD:
- Show paper logs
- Explain the situation
- Provide documentation of malfunction
- Officer may still cite based on circumstances
Stay prepared - keep blank paper logs in your truck!
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