FMCSA shows off new bus safety technology

October 15, 2010

New technology to improve the safety performance of buses was showcased this week by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

The FMCSA demonstrated the latest state-of-the-art technology to be used by law enforcement to conduct commercial motor vehicle safety inspections.

The new technology includes:

  • Wireless roadside inspection that can conduct up to 25 times more vehicle inspections a year than the current, in-person inspection process. It allows an inspector to obtain driver and carrier identity, vehicle condition and hours-of-service violations while the vehicle is traveling at highway speed.
  • Smart infrared inspection that detects brake, wheel and tire problems by comparing infrared thermal images of wheels as the vehicle enters a weigh station.
  • Performance-based brake testing that assesses a vehicle’s brake force and overall performance.