Tractor-trailer Safety Becomes an Issue in Southbury

After a state police investigation revealed the tractor-trailer that rolled over in Southbury in May was operating with inadequate brakes, town officials requested tractor-trailer spot checks in the area of the accident.

At the direction of First Selectman Ed Edelson, the State Police Truck Squad conducted random spot checks on tractor-trailers traveling on Main Street North last month. 

Of the 20 trucks that were stopped by police, five were taken out of service for numerous violations including brake violations, weight violations and operating without proper licenses.

The tractor-trailer that rolled over in May was operating on six of ten deficient brakes and would have also been taken off the road.

“Although no one was injured on the rollover in May, it was only because of the fast-thinking of the driver that a serious accident involving injuries or fatalities did not happen,” said Edelson.

Edelson said he was troubled to learn of the findings of the state police investigation and will work with Sergeant O’Donnell, the Southbury Resident State Trooper, to generate ways to prevent similar situations in the future.

The First Selectman pointed to the current state of the economy as a possible cause for the insufficient safety conditions, but would not excuse any unsafe vehicles.

“In these tough economic times, it is not surprising that some businesses will cut corners on maintenance,” he said. “However, we must ensure that the many trucks that travel on Southbury streets are safe.”

Future tractor-trailer checks will be scheduled periodically throughout the town to continually monitor the safety off the vehicles.

“We want truckers to know that they are welcomed in Southbury if their vehicles are properly maintained”, said Edelson.