143 drivers put out of service during Oregon inspections

This inspection initiative was part of an ongoing ODOT Motor Carrier Transportation Division effort to reduce truck-at-fault crashes

The Trucker News Services

3/13/2009

SALEM, Ore. — One hundred forty three drivers were put out of service during a multi-day inspection operation the weekend of March 7-8.

More than 530 inspections were completed by Oregon Department of Transportation certified inspectors during operation held at the Woodburn and Hubbard weigh stations located on State Highway 99 and Interstate 5, respectively.

This inspection initiative was part of an ongoing ODOT Motor Carrier Transportation Division effort to reduce truck-at-fault crashes on Oregon highways through increased inspections and educational outreach.

 These inspections focused on commercial drivers and included checking drivers’ logbooks and qualifications to make sure they were complying with federal and state regulations, specifically, hours of service regulations. Under the regulations, drivers must take mandatory rest breaks after driving a specified number of hours.

“The purpose of this effort is to prevent crashes and to help drivers ensure they are getting enough rest to safely operate their vehicles,” said Howard Russell, ODOT Motor Carrier Safety manager. 

During the inspection operation, 143 drivers (or 27 percent) were placed out of service for safety violations. That rate is consistent with inspection events at other locations in Oregon over the last few years. The national driver out of service rate is about seven percent.

For this initiative, inspections are not random. Using several sorting tools, inspectors scrutinize the vehicle and driver. Driver behavior is carefully observed as the vehicle proceeds through the weigh station. Drivers who look inattentive or fatigued are routinely selected for an inspection. During the inspection, the driver is interviewed and supporting documentation is reviewed to verify the driver’s logbook.

In 2008, ODOT conducted six Hours of Service inspection events. Inspectors checked 4,893 drivers and placed almost 25 percent out of service for logbook, hours of service or other violations.

“Although the majority of trucks and drivers operating on Oregon’s highways are safe and professional, these inspections are important in helping identify those that are not and vital in helping keep Oregonians safe,” Russell said.

The Trucker Staff can be reached to comment on this article at editor@thetrucker.com.