Truck Safety Regulation, Inspection, and Enforcement in Virginia: A Report

About the report:

In response to a request from the Director of the Virginia Department of Transportation Safety an evaluation of the state and federal regulations, inspection programs and enforcement activities regarding truck safety was carried out. The purpose of the study was to assess the nature and scope of current regulatory activities; to compare and contrast state and federal approaches; and to ascertain whether or not a problem exists with state regulations, inspections, and enforcement and, if so, to suggest remedial measures. The study was carried out with guidance provided by a project advisory group consisting of representatives of the Department of Highways and Transportation, Division of Motor Vehicles, Department of State Police, Department of Health, Office of Energy and Emergency Services, State Corporation Commission, Port Authority, Division of Legislative Services, Office of the Attorney General, U. S. Bureau of Motor Carrier Safety, National Transportation Safety Board, and the Virginia Highway Users Association. The evaluation included a review of relevant literature, a questionnaire survey of other states, site visits and observations of SCC and BMCS on-road safety inspections, a review and comparison of state and federal laws and regulations, and an analysis of available data concerning truck accidents. Analysis of the information obtained led to the. Conclusion that some revisions to the regulatory provisions governing the trucking industry and the transportation of hazardous materials are warranted. Recommendations for the revision of Virginia's regulations and administrative programs are offered.

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