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RALEIGH -- New federal regulations for truck drivers are expected to take effect in July. The new rules would limit how long truck drivers could be on the road. But they are also bringing up new concerns among drivers.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration will publish a final "Hours of Service" rule later this month. It stems from a December proposal that would reduce the daily hours a truck driver can be on the road.

Ray Ferguson, who has been driving trucks for 17 years, says he sees how it can protect drivers, but it can also hurt their income.

"In a way, it's good, and then you know in a way it takes the time away from the driver." said Ferguson

According to the FMCSA, the new rules would reduce their time on the road by one hour daily and reduce their total time on duty by up to three hours.

The state highway patrol hasn't necessarily seen an increase in accidents, but they say even one accident is too many.

"You realize when a commercial motor vehicle is involved in a crash, it's unforgiving,” said Sgt. Terry Siler of the state highway patrol. “It destroys a lot of property, sometimes it takes lives."

With random stops, state troopers can check the drivers' log books and know how long they've been driving. A violation under the proposed rule by the FMCSA could mean a fine of $2,750 for the driver and up to $11,000 for the company for each offense.

Drivers say with rising fuel prices and other factors they're already feeling the pinch and new limits could raise new concerns.

"You'll feel a difference you're going to see a difference and then you're going to be in a hurry to get from one place to another," said Ferguson. “You're against the clock.”

The state highway patrol says most companies are in compliance with current regulations. But new rules will mean safer roads for everyone driving through the state.

A final "Hours of Service" rule is expected to be published July 26.