1 Dies In Train, Big Rig Crash

Michigan among states targeting unsafe truckers
Michigan troopers are joining federal, state officers in the U.S. and Canada to crack down on unsafe truckers
The Trucker News Services
10/23/2007
LANSING, Mich. — This week, Michigan State Police (MSP) motor carrier officers are joining federal and state enforcement officers from across the country and Canada in a new effort to address commercial vehicle driver behaviors that increase the likelihood of a crash.
During the week-long enforcement effort, known as Operation Safe Driver, MSP motor carrier officers will focus on identifying and stopping commercial motor vehicle drivers who engage in dangerous driving practices such as following too close, speeding and improper lane use. Additionally, officers will ensure commercial vehicle drivers are in compliance with the driver qualification and hours of service regulations.
MSP motor carrier officers will participate in the operation through a variety of enforcement methods including enforcement at weigh stations, rest areas and during mobile patrols. “Unsafe driving behavior is a major contributing factor in commercial vehicle traffic crashes,” said Captain Robert R. Powers, Jr., MSP Traffic Safety Division commander. “Focusing on drivers with dangerous driving practices will make the roads safer for everyone.”
The operation is sponsored by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
For more information, contact Lt. David Ford, MSP Traffic Safety Division, at (517) 336-6449.

 

I always shake my head when I read stuff like this. Why target just one group? Troopers should be alert to ALL unsafe driving practices, regardless of the vehicle!

 

I agree Ducks 9.5 out of 10 its the car who is driving unsafe. I will admit I do a few unsafe things BUT when I am around trucks I give them room and make sure to let them know what I am going to do. But I guess its easier to target trucks cuz they are the monsters on the road and law enforcement has more ways to stop a truck than a car.

 

Well, part of me is happy to see this, although I do agree with your "car is at fault" quote.
But, a truck speeding/tailgating is a MUCH more dangerous situation thatn your 4 wheeler, IMO. And there's no excuse on the trucker's part either.
It burns me to no end to see a slow car/RV passing a slow truck, and then a supertrucker comes flying up to within INCHES off the 4-wheeler's back bumper. Come on, what are you thinking?? What's gonna happen if Granpa looks in his mirror and sees nothing but headlights and a Peterbilt emblem, and locks 'em up? And, rightfully, who's at fault in that situation.
Sure, 4-wheelers do some stupid stuff, but isn't it up to us expect and accomodate for their mistakes? After all, most of us drive more in a month than most 4-wheeler do in a year. We live out here, we see the dangers as well as the consequences every day. And, like it or not, we're the ones that are gonna be held to higher standards by the courts, the police, as well as the general public, when it comes to our driving habits.
Now, let me put my soapbox away...