Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) Carrier Enforcement Division, with the assistance of the Kearney Police Department, conducted surprise commercial vehicle inspections today, June 28, in Kearney and the surrounding area. The surprise inspections target commercial vehicles that might not travel outside the city or pass through weight stations as part of their regular routes.

During the special enforcement effort, the Metropolitan Aggressive and Prevention Selective (MAPS) Team conducted 62 vehicle inspections, discovered 210 violations of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and state law, and took 26 vehicles out of service (not allowed to return to the road). Vehicles are placed out of service for a variety of reasons relating to bad brakes or tires, or other problems that post immediate safety risks. Troopers also placed four drivers out of service for no license (1), no CDL (2), and arrested on a warrant (1). Troopers also issued $2,925 in citations.

This week, the NSP MAPS Team conducted operations in Grand Island, Hastings, and Kearney. During the three days of operations, troopers conducted 146 commercial vehicle inspections, discovered 552 violations, and took 73 vehicles out of service. The team also placed eight drivers out of service and issued $8,800 in fines.

The MAPS Team has conducted surprise inspections in six communities so far this year, with more scheduled over the next several months in cities and towns across Nebraska.

The MAPS Team in funded largely by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Troopers check for compliance with federal safety regulations and enforce laws pertaining to weight, size, registration, dyed fuels, and permits associated with commercial vehicles. The MAPS Team was implemented in 1998 and consists of troopers from the Nebraska State Patrol Carrier Enforcement Division. On average, 20-24 troopers work each MAPS event.

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 Contact: Cody Thomas - Public Relations Director                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               402-479-4985                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             cody.thomas@nebraska.gov