Press Release

HARRISBURG -- Trucks traveling through Washington and Allegheny counties are operating more safely as a result of recent inspections by enforcement officers with the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission’s (PUC) Bureau of Transportation and Safety.

Officers Paul Caliari and Jeffrey Longo placed 15 vehicles out of service during a three-day operation from March 30 to April 1 at I-70  in Claysville, Washington County, and I-79 in Bridgeville, Allegheny County.  The trucks were pulled from the road for a variety of safety violations, including worn brakes, broken tail lights and improperly secured loads.  Drivers were prohibited from taking their trucks back onto the highway until the problems were corrected.

Overall, PUC enforcement officers found 146 safety violations during inspections on 44 commercial vehicles, including 18-wheelers hauling general freight, hazardous materials and household goods.

“Over the past 12 years, serious vehicle and driver violations have declined to the point that placing a truck out of service is the exception not the rule,” said Don Wilson, Motor Carrier Safety Enforcement manager.

This inspection was coordinated and sponsored by Pennsylvania State Police and the Department of Transportation’s Motor Carrier Enforcement Division.  This was a special project in which officers in the PUC’s Pittsburgh District office participated.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission ensures safe, reliable and reasonably priced electric, natural gas, water, telephone and transportation service for Pennsylvania consumers, by regulating public utilities and by serving as responsible stewards of competition.

For recent news releases, Commissioner statements, or more information about the PUC, visit our Internet homepage:  http://puc.paonline.com