Local CHP Cracking Down on Commercial Vehicles Breaking the Law

Commercial drivers passing through the Pass area and into the desert Wednesday should be aware that California Highway Patrol officers are looking for scofflaws.

Extra officers will patrol the Coachella Valley and Banning Pass Wednesday through Friday, watching for speeding, tailgating and failure to use "hands-free" cell phone technology. Officers will also inspect vehicles for mechanical problems, targeting brakes, wheels and steering systems, CHP Officer Mike Radford said.

"Mechanical defects are at times a contributing factor to collisions involving commercial vehicles," he said.

Drivers of commercial vehicles are required to stay to the right unless passing and are prohibited from going faster than 55 mph.

— City News Service.