Georgia – A Model for Commercial Vehicle Safety

The state of Georgia is being praised by other states for recent efforts to reduce accidents involving trucks. Michigan is one of many states that have recently applauded the peach state for acknowledging the dangers and repercussions of the trucking industry on their local highways.

Governor Nathan Deal proposed that the state of Georgia employ 60 new enforcement officers who are solely dedicated to commercial motor vehicle inspections. This decision will help patrol areas known for being ‘accident-prone’ hot spots.

As Georgians, we are well aware of the major car accidents involving trucks on our highways. With the help of political figures and public support, the state has pushed for stricter guidelines and more frequent inspections.

States like Michigan are demanding a change, like Georgia, so the number of accidents and deaths can be avoided. They are looking to mirror the programs and ideals Georgia now has in place:

• The Georgia Targeting Aggressive Cars and Trucks Program (G-TACT) and Operation Safe Drive on I-95: This is a joint operation between Georgia law enforcement officers and their commercial vehicle enforcement counterparts in surrounding states that will educate drivers on how to decrease risky behavior and share the road safely with commercial trucks and buses. The program was funded with a grant from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

• Ongoing partnerships with the trucking lobby: Including Georgia Motor Trucking Association and the Georgia Motorcoach Operators Association.

• Compliance reviews and safety audits: On Georgia-based motor carriers by the Georgia Department of Public Safety’s Motor Carrier Compliance Division officers.

• Increased and concentrated patrols: To enforce speeding, distracted driving and seat belt violations.

• Enforcement to conduct Level 3 truck inspections: This type of inspection includes examination of the commercial driver’s license, medical examiner’s certificate, pre-trip inspection, driver’s record of duty status including hours of service, as well as seat belt, and hazardous materials/dangerous goods requirements.

With the help of these programs/guidelines and more officers, we can only hope other states can look to Georgia as a leader in the regulation/safety of trucks on our highways.

For more information, contact Kaine Law.