LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — With the new year right around the corner, our city and roads are busier than ever, and safety is top of mind for all of us.
But now, a new, high-tech tool designed to make our highways safer is being used right here in Southern Nevada, and I got to see this cutting-edge technology in action and learn how it's helping protect you and making your commute safer.
Local News
Information you can use to plan your holiday travel
The Smart Roadside Inspection System
As we approach one of the busiest times of the year, Nevada State Police are stepping up their efforts to protect drivers from the dangers that are hidden on our roads.
This smart mobile system uses advanced technology that is designed to electronically screen commercial vehicles in a matter of seconds.
“Thermal imaging cameras, license plate readers, USDOT number and placard readers," said Tappan Cornmesser, a lieutenant with the Nevada State Police.
Lt. Cornmesser gave me a tour of this new roadside inspection system which detects trucks with faulty brakes or overloaded cargo to something much darker.
Abel: Human trafficking is a major issue here in our city. How will this help reduce that?
“We partner with Truckers Against Trafficking...we will detect heat anomalies. So, if a box trailer shows a temp difference up front, inspectors will flag it," Lt. Cornmesser said.
WATCH: Las Vegas is a hotspot for human trafficking, here's how to spot signs
I checked and found Las Vegas ranked second as the worst in the nation for sex trafficking. With more tourists coming to town for big events, the crime is only growing.
Along with targeting traffickers, this technology helps troopers spot trucks carrying dangerous loads or violating weight limits, allowing them to keep our roads and drivers safe and our infrastructure protected.
“Long term is, of course, to reduce accidents and fatal crashes, and human trafficking. Other states have seen a reduction in all of those parameters," Lt. Cornmesser said.
He said in four to five months, Northern Nevada will also be receiving a system just like this.
-
New bill aims to make extreme heat eligible for FEMA disaster funds
A new bill in Congress could classify extreme heat as a major disaster, unlocking FEMA funds for communities like Las Vegas where residents struggle with dangerous temperatures.
Private investors, high rates push homeownership out of reach for many locals
More than half of Clark County residents can't afford to buy homes as private investors and high interest rates create barriers for local buyers. New legislation aims to help.
New Henderson police chief takes over department after leadership shakeup
Henderson's new police chief is taking the reins after months of controversy and leadership turnover within the department.
Man suffers third-degree burns after falling asleep on concrete
Doctors warn concrete can reach 180 degrees during triple-digit temperatures, causing severe burns within seconds
New heat protections proposed for workers as Vegas temps soar into triple digits
OSHA is considering new rules requiring employers to provide water, shade and rest breaks for outdoor workers during extreme heat, while Nevada already has its own heat safety regulations in place.
From Vegas to Texas, doctor reflects on flood's toll on beloved hometown
A Las Vegas doctor with deep Texas roots watches as flooding devastates her hometown and threatens her brother's home in Georgetown.
