FRANKFORT, Ky. (KT) – The Kentucky State Police (KSP) Commercial Vehicle Enforcement (CVE) division will take part this week in Operation SafeDRIVE (Distracted Reckless Impaired Visibility Enforcement), a national effort from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
The purpose of the enforcement effort is to save lives by reducing unsafe driving behaviors frequently contributing to passenger and commercial vehicle crashes. KSP’s CVE division will join this initiative from Tuesday, February 25, to Thursday, February 27.
Operation SafeDRIVE highlights hazardous interstate highway driving behaviors such as speeding, tailgating, failing to wear seat belts and driving under the influence. As part of the campaign, KSP Commercial Vehicle Inspectors will conduct inspections at scale facilities to ensure compliance with safety standards. These checks include reviewing hours of service, commercial driver’s licenses, medical certifications and vehicle credentials.
Officer Steven Douglas,East Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Spokesperson, emphasized the importance of the initiative in improving roadway safety. “We are proud to participate in Operation SafeDRIVE to ensure safer travel for everyone using Kentucky’s highways. By addressing risky driving behaviors, we aim to educate all motorists, whether behind the wheel of a passenger vehicle or a commercial motor vehicle, about the importance of responsibly sharing the road.”
KSP encourages all drivers to follow these tips for safer roadways:
–Avoid blind spots. Large trucks and buses have significant blind spots on all sides. Be mindful of these areas when driving near them.
–Pass carefully. Always ensure you can see the truck driver in their side mirror before passing. Use turn signals and make sure you can see the commercial vehicle in your rearview mirror before merging back into the lane.
–Do not cut off large vehicles. Large trucks require a longer stopping distance. Cutting them off can lead to dangerous situations.
–Maintain a safe following distance. Avoid tailgating commercial vehicles, as this puts you in their blind spot and limits your reaction time.
This initiative aligns with the FMCSA’s national “Our Roads, Our Safety” campaign, which educates all drivers on safe practices for sharing the road with large vehicles.
