Operation Southern Shield 2015 was conducted February 24-26 on Interstate 10 and Interstate 19. The three-day operation aimed to reduce commercial vehicle collisions along I-10 from Tucson to the New Mexico State Line and I-19 from Tucson to the Mexican International Border.
Commercial Vehicle officers conducted truck inspections and inspected driver logs for proper documentation and possible over hours violations which lead to driver fatigue.
Operation Southern Shield 2015 resulted in 1171 commercial vehicles inspected, including 72 commercial vehicles that were carrying hazardous material. DPS Commercial Vehicle officers found a total of 2,068 vehicle violations and placed 168 commercial vehicles out of service.
Inspections of commercial vehicle drivers found 965 violations. As a result, a total of 132 drivers were placed out of service.
No collisions involving commercial vehicles occurred during Operation Southern Shield 2015.
Additionally, as part of Operation Southern Shield 2015, DPS Commercial Vehicle officers conducted several driver-safety courses. Officers conducted Driver Awareness Regulation Training (DART) at the Love’s Truck Stop in Benson and at the TTT Truck stop in Tucson. A total of 143 drivers participated in the training.
At Marana High School in Marana and Sahuaro High School in Tucson, officers presented “Share the Road” safety training. A total of 215 driver’s education students received this training.
Commercial Vehicle officers also teamed up with the Wal-Mart “Committed to Safety” team. They presented a safety awareness program and display at the Wal-Mart in Marana. During the event 350 customers received information and brochures with safe driving tips.
In talking about the success of Operation Southern Shield 2015 Capt. Walter Mercer, the commander of Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Southern District said, “The operation was a huge success. I want to emphasize that the operation was not solely about law and regulation enforcement but also to educate the commercial vehicle driver so that he/she can contribute to a safe driving environment on our interstates.”