TDOS driving towards safer commercial trucking
Working toward the goal of improved highway safety, the Tennessee Department of Safety (TDOS) will participate in Roadcheck 2004, a 72-hour inspection event aimed at increasing the safety of commercial vehicle traffic on the roadways.
During the 72-hour period from June 8-10, officers with the department’s Commercial Vehicle Enforcement division will conduct round-the-clock roadside inspections at each of the five interstate weigh stations along Tennessee’s highways. Officers will emphasize the inspection of cargo tanks, intermodal equipment as well as the use of safety belts.
“Commercial vehicle enforcement is a highly important, and daily, aspect of the department’s efforts to increase the safety and security for motorists traveling throughout the state,” said TDOS Commissioner Fred Phillips. “Our officers continuously conduct roadside inspections of trucks and buses to ensure commercial drivers are operating safely and their equipment is in proper working condition.”
During last year’s Roadcheck event in Tennessee officers inspected 655 commercial vehicles, which resulted in 103 vehicles and 58 drivers being placed out of service.
“We know that by combining enforcement with education we have a greater impact on highway safety, said THP Colonel Lynn Pitts. “Roadcheck 2004 provides us with another opportunity to practice this and let the commercial vehicle industry know that safety is achieved through properly maintaining equipment, adequately training drivers and always practicing safe driving habits.”