Another MDOT initiative involves the use of weigh-in-motion station technology. These are unmanned virtual weigh stations that are able to weigh a tractor-trailer while it is in motion. One of these virtual weight stations is located on Hwy 51 near the Southaven, MS–Hernando, MS border.
The mobile monitoring van can set up on the side of any road and with the help of a thermal camera and a license plate-reading camera, monitor most equipment and administrative aspects of a passing truck. The thermal camera helps patrolmen check the trucks’ brake and exhaust systems. “The majority of what we do is check for the heat coming from the brakes,” said Sgt. Jason Rickman. Poorly adjusted brakes and brake failure in trucks are two of the top reasons for truck accidents on the Interstates, highways and other roadways.
Unfortunately, not all trucking companies and drivers adhere to the safety regulations as they should. MDOT is implementing this improvement to help reduce the number of trucks operating with violations, but unfortunately truck safety regulations will not always be followed. “This is like shooting fish in a barrel…” as Rickman states. “Trucks with some type of discrepancy [are] going to run secondary roads and miss the station.”
As Mississippi personal injury lawyers and trucking accident attorneys, we understand firsthand how important it is for minimum safety regulations to be followed. When important safety regulations are not followed, or worse purposely ignored by trucking companies, serious personal injury can occur. Victims are left with the burden of major medical bills, lost wages and long-term care costs, not to mention the enduring pain and suffering associated with serious injury.
“MDOT tests smart van” Tuesday, December 14, 2010
If you or someone you know has been injured as a result of a trucking accident, contact our firm. Helping injured people is what we do.
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