What is the main goal of DOT's roadside inspections?

The primary goal of DOT's roadside inspections is to enforce safety compliance. These inspections are critical for ensuring that vehicles and drivers adhere to safety standards and regulations established to protect public safety on the roads. By evaluating various aspects of a vehicle, including its mechanical condition and the driver's compliance with regulations (such as hours of service and licensing), DOT aims to prevent accidents caused by unsafe vehicles or irresponsible driving behavior.

The emphasis on safety compliance helps maintain a higher standard within the transportation industry and actively contributes to reducing the risks associated with commercial vehicle operations. This focus is vital, as the consequences of non-compliance can lead to serious accidents, injuries, and fatalities on the highways.

Gathering traffic data, inspecting vehicle aesthetics, and conducting driver interviews, while important in their own right, do not align with the primary mission of roadside inspections, which is primarily centered around ensuring that safety measures are being upheld.