NCJ Number
122536
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 37 Issue: 11 Dated: (November 1989) Pages: 24-26
Date Published
1989
Length
3 pages
Annotation
In 1987, the Nassau County Police Department (New York) formally established the Motor Carrier Safety Unit to focus on vehicles transporting dangerous cargo.
Abstract
The unit contains one sergeant and ten police officers under the command of the Department's Highway Patrol Bureau. Enforcement efforts target poorly maintained or overweight vehicles with particular emphasis on "out-of-service" violations and improper transportation of hazardous materials. The deregulation of the trucking industry in 1981 has caused some companies to cut corners to increase their competitive edge, resulting in shortcuts in three general areas: drivers, vehicles, and dangerous cargo. Even the best equipped and maintained vehicles can pose a serious hazard in the hands of a reckless or unlicensed operator. Many companies are unscrupulous about safety and maintenance, especially involving steering and brakes. Hazardous materials are being transported without proper placards, blocked and braced improperly, transported together with incompatible substances and leaking from vehicles. Members of the Unit, who are already experienced Highway Patrol officers, receive a training regime including Hazardous Materials Compliance and Enforcement, Roadside Tank Inspection School, and Brake Inspection School. In addition, the Unit maintains an open policy with the media and liaison with the transportation industry.