NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NEBRASKA STATE PATROL
www.nsp.state.ne.us
CONTACT: DEB COLLINS 402-479-4985
May 6, 2008

Grand Island Surprise Truck Inspection Results

(Lincoln, NE)- The Nebraska State Patrol, with assistance from the Grand Island Police Department, conducted surprise commercial vehicle inspections today, Tuesday, May 06, 2008, in Grand Island.  The surprise inspections target commercial vehicles that might not travel outside the city or pass through weigh stations as part of their regular routes.

During the special enforcement effort, the Metropolitan Aggressive and Preventive Selective (MAPS) Team conducted 86 inspections, discovered 197 violations, and took 32 vehicles out of service (not allowed to continue on the road).  Vehicles are placed out of service for violations relating to bad brakes or tires, or other problems that pose immediate safety risks.  In addition, two drivers were taken out of service (not allowed to continue driving) each for No Commercial Drivers License (CDL).  Officers issued a total of $3,715.00 in fines.

“The MAPS Team ensures truck operators who rarely leave the city limits are maintaining their vehicles and abiding by safety regulations,” said Colonel Bryan Tuma, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol.  “While most truck owners and operators share our concern for safety, we know some think they can ignore safety standards as long as they avoid the weigh stations.  The MAPS Team extends our reach into cities and towns across the state.”

This was the third MAPS Team event of 2008.  Inspections have also been conducted in Lincoln and Omaha this summer.  More surprise inspections are planned throughout the spring and summer in cities and towns across Nebraska.

The MAPS Team is funded largely by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.  Troopers check for compliance with federal safety regulations and enforce laws pertaining to weight, size, registration, dyed fuel, and permits associated with commercial vehicles.  The MAPS Team was implemented in 1998 and consists of 36 troopers from the Nebraska State Patrol Carrier Enforcement Division.  An average 20-24 troopers work each MAPS event.

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