Commision unveils plans for automated inspections

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- New technology will allow truckers to bypass some Missouri inspection stations by the end of the year, the state Highways and Transportation Commission said Friday.

The new PrePass system, already used in 23 states, will allow trucks to be scanned electronically as they approach inspection stations in 19 locations around Missouri. Participation is voluntary.

When a truck with a special transponder in the windshield is within a mile of a PrePass inspection station, an electronic sensor detects its approach. A computer then checks whether the truck meets requirements on safety ratings, registration fees, fuel taxes and insurance.

If the paperwork is valid and up-to-date, the small black box affixed to the windshield flashes a green light telling the trucker to continue.

But if something is amiss, a red light flashes and the trucker pulls into the inspection station.

Currently, trucks have to stop at inspection stations to have the information verified.

As part of the system, weigh scales also will be installed in highway lanes so that trucks with transponders can be weighed before they pass.

The PrePass computer system downloads a truck's federal safety rating and the status of insurance and fuel tax payments, plus each truck's state registrations.