Nashville, Tennessee --- The Tennessee Department of Safety is participating in Roadcheck 2006, a 72-hour commercial vehicle inspection marathon. The goals of Roadcheck 2006 are to increase commercial truck and bus safety and security and to reduce the number of crashes involving commercial trucks and motor vehicles. The event, which takes place simultaneously across North America, will run from June 6-8.

During the 72-hour period, State Troopers will conduct round-the-clock roadside inspections at all nine weigh stations along Tennessee highways. They will also stop trucks for inspections at random points along the roads. Inspectors will be checking bus and cargo tank vehicles in a continuing effort to increase security. They will also concentrate on safety belt usage among commercial vehicle drivers. The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) estimates only about 54% of truck drivers nationally adhere to the federal law requiring them to wear a safety belt. Due to increased enforcement of the law in Tennessee during 2005, that number is estimated to be 77%.

"Tennessee conducts a high number of commercial vehicle inspections on a regular basis, and countless lives are saved because of it," stated Interim Department of Safety Commissioner Gerald Nicely. "We are pleased to participate in Roadcheck 2006 which helps draw attention to the importance of these inspections and raises public awareness about them."

In 2005, State Troopers conducted 68,262 inspections resulting in 5,689 vehicles and 4,558 drivers being placed out of service.

"Commercial vehicle inspection is a priority of the Tennessee Highway Patrol," says Colonel Mike Walker. "This event is a great opportunity for us to educate the public, as well as to remind citizens and the trucking industry that Tennessee is serious about commercial vehicle safety."

The Tennessee Department of Safety's mission is (www.tennessee.gov/safety) to ensure the safety and general welfare of the public. The department encompasses the Tennessee Highway Patrol, Office of Homeland Security and Driver License Services. General areas of responsibility include law enforcement, safety education, motorist services and terrorism prevention.