Technology
Technology is supporting the role of the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Unit (CVEU) trooper in several ways.
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Using laptop computers during roadside inspections, the troopers are able to identify trucks that are being operated in an "out-of-service" condition. They can:
- Enter inspection data into the Safety and Fitness Electronic Recording—SAFER—database.
- Query the SAFER system and determine if a vehicle has been inspected within the past 60 days.
- View a copy of the previous inspection reports performed on the vehicle.
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Using hand-held scanning devices, troopers can get real-time license, registration status and/or identify a person wanted as a fugitive instantly.
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Using Weigh-In-Motion (WIM) devices, troopers can screen commercial vehicle traffic to determine immediately if a vehicle is overweight or over-dimension.
SAFER is a national information network making safety data electronically accessible by enforcement agencies nationwide. The system provides "Carrier Snapshots" which are a concise electronic record of a carrier's identifications, size, commodity being transported, safety record, safety rating (if available), crash information and a roadside out-of-service inspection summary.
The SAFER system is updated routinely. The following information can be obtained through the SAFER website:
- Carrier Safety Profiles, which contain the most current data in the Motor Carrier Management Information System (MCMIS).
- Carrier Snapshot Files, which are updated weekly.
- SAFESTAT data, which is updated bi-annually.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), of which SAFER is a part, uses the information recorded in the system to establish a safety rating for each carrier. In turn, the rating is used by the FMCSA to help determine if a carrier should receive a safety audit and by insurance companies to determine rates.
Motor carriers can access information relative to their current safety rating through the SAFER website.