Truckers Prepare Motorists for Busy Memorial Day Drive

WHAT:

The Minnesota Trucking Association (MTA) Safety Council will be reaching out to motorists one week before the Memorial Day drive to discuss safe driving practices around big trucks.  A part of a larger safety initiative, the MTA will give motorists an opportunity to climb inside the cab of a semi truck to view the blind spots from the truck driver's perspective.  Passenger cars will be strategically parked in the blind spots to simulate actual road conditions.  Media will be allowed inside the truck to experience the restricted sight lines of a commercial truck driver.  Complimentary refreshments and snacks will be available to truck drivers as well as the general public.

A similar safety event just took place at Coon Rapids High School on Monday, May 16.  Details and video of that event can be seen at www.mntruck.org/str.html.

WHEN:

Friday, May 20

9:00am – 1:00pm

WHERE:

I-94 St. Croix Rest Area (2.76mi west of St. Croix River)

I-94 Fuller Lake Rest Area (1.0mi west of E. Stearns County Line)

I-35 Albert Lea Rest Area (8.0mi south of Albert Lea)

WHY:

To inform and educate the driving public about safe driving practices around big trucks.