Utah lawmakers seek to prevent trucks from using Interstate-70 during high traffic times

Peak periods of traffic continue to be a hot-button issue for many trucking companies and lawmakers. As a result, some states are proposing that tractor-trailers should be forbidden from using certain interstates during rush hour traffic in order to promote trucking safety.

For instance, Utah lawmakers are seeking ways to increase safety along Interstate 70. Trucking companies and skiers who are driving to and from resorts use the road, but the route has recently become dangerous for motorists as a whole, Summit Daily reports.

Summit County Commissioner Dan Gibbs recently announced a proposal that would bar tractor-trailers using the route during peak hours, which may allow for more tourism in the area.

"I just think we are at a breaking point on I-70," Gibbs told the news provider. "I have talked to people on the Front Range who tell me they used to come up here, and they do not anymore because the I-70 traffic is so bad."

In order to promote trucking safety, companies may consider enrolling their new drivers in online truck driver training courses.

According to the most recent progress report from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, nearly 74,000 injuries are attributed to large truck accidents in 2009.

By Anna Byrne 

Utah lawmakers seek to prevent trucks from using Interstate-70 during high traffic times

Thursday, March 10th, 2011