COLUMBUS (May 13, 2024) – The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) is gearing up for a 72-hour transportation safety event, International Roadcheck, set to take place from May 14th to May 16th. This initiative, spanning the United States, Mexico, and Canada, aims to bolster highway safety through rigorous enforcement measures.
Motor carrier enforcement officers will be deployed across Ohio’s roadways, collaborating with agencies such as the Ohio State Highway Patrol, to conduct comprehensive inspections of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). The focus of this year’s International Roadcheck will be on critical safety areas, particularly alcohol and controlled substance possession, as well as tractor protection systems designed to prevent malfunctions during emergencies.
“International Roadcheck is a vital reminder of the paramount importance of safe driving practices for motor carriers,” stated PUCO Chair Jenifer French. “Our inspectors are dedicated to upholding safety standards daily, and this event underscores their unwavering commitment to safeguarding all motorists in Ohio.”
Last year’s Roadcheck yielded significant findings, with 993 inspections conducted by PUCO and allied agencies. Among the 1,793 violations discovered, 353 were severe enough to warrant the immediate removal of either the driver or vehicle from service.
The prevalence of controlled substance and alcohol use among drivers remains a pressing concern, prompting thorough checks during inspections. Officers utilize the U.S. Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse, an online database, to identify drivers with previous violations, underscoring the imperative of mitigating risks posed by impaired driving.
Throughout International Roadcheck, PUCO inspectors will meticulously examine CMVs to ensure compliance with state and federal safety regulations. Vehicles and drivers found non-compliant will be subject to enforcement actions, including being declared out-of-service until requisite safety standards are met.
