NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NEBRASKA STATE PATROL
www.nsp.state.ne.us
CONTACT: DEB COLLINS 402-479-4985
October 27, 2009

Lincoln Surprise Truck Inspection Results

(Lincoln, NE)- The Nebraska State Patrol, with assistance from Lincoln Police Department, conducted surprise commercial vehicle inspections today, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 in Lincoln.  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 87 inspections, discovered 279 violations, and took 35 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) for No commercial Driver’s License (CDL) (1), No Interlock Ignition Device (1).  Officers issued a total of $4,425 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 11th MAPS Team event of 2009.  Inspections have also been conducted in Omaha, Lincoln, Sarpy County, Columbus, Norfolk, Hastings, Kearney, Fremont, South Sioux City, and Grand Island 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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