On Friday at a news conference, a new technology directed at improving trucker safety was revealed. Specifically, the project aims to catch truck drivers who are in violation of the law.
Designed and funded by Kapsch TrafficCom of McLean, Virginia, the technology is currently undergoing a pilot program. Cameras, laser measuring devices, and roadway embedded scales are implemented to measure, weigh and gather information regarding semi truck traffic.
Whereas weigh stations are only open at certain times, this new technology will be working constantly. A similar technology is already in place in France and the Czech Republic.
According to Nwi Times, the initiation of the program was announced during a press conference, along with a demonstration at an I-94 weight station east of Chesterton, Indiana. Kapsch TrafficCom, INDOT, Indiana Department of Revenue, Indiana state Police and Purdue University unveiled the project details.
INDOT Commissioner Brandye Hendrickson stated that the program is a:
“21st Century approach to weight compliance and trucking safety.”
The technology has already begun collecting data as it was installed several weeks ago. Assessments of the data are to be turned over to the state during the fall; then the state will decide if it wants to incorporate the program into its interstates and roadways.
Officials hope to catch trucks that fail to meet compliance either with weight limits or certain certifications. Citations will be given and the state anticipates increased revenue.
Gary Langston, president of the Indiana Motor Truck Association, commented that safety is pivotal in the trucking industry since:
“The sound of trucks is the sound of commerce.”
Current law requires that inspector weighs a vehicle in person in order to issue a citation of an overweight vehicle. If the pilot program is a success, action will be required by Indiana legislators to allow the technology to cite overweight vehicles.
The pilot program is funded through Kapsch, but if the state wants to adopt the program, several funding options are available. The costs for the equipment and operation are not known at this point.
