Minneapolis, Minnesota — The Minnesota State Patrol announced today that it will install 15 new Tire Anomaly and Classification Systems (TACS) from International Road Dynamics at its Virtual Weigh Station sites, a move set to boost tire safety on state highways.

Commercial trucks are expected to keep tires properly inflated and free of defects under FMCSA regulations, yet roadside inspections often miss problems that develop while a vehicle is in motion. By integrating TACS into the existing weigh‑in‑motion network, the patrol can detect flats, missing or under‑inflated tires at highway and ramp speeds, before a driver reaches a stop bar. The technology promises to reduce blow‑outs, improve fuel economy, and keep freight moving safely.

The partnership delivers a complete suite of in‑road sensors, roadside electronics, and a workstation interface that feeds directly into MnDOT’s Virtual Weigh Station software. The system reads tire data as a truck passes, transmits the information to the weigh station, and displays the results on a graphical user interface for operators. Officers can then track any vehicle flagged for a tire anomaly in real time and dispatch mobile enforcement units downstream to issue citations or suspend the truck until the issue is corrected.

What This Means for Drivers

CDL‑A drivers and owner‑operators will find that tire checks are no longer limited to stop‑line inspections. The new system will flag problems while a truck is still moving, allowing fleets to address issues before a driver is pulled over. If a vehicle is identified with a tire defect, the driver may receive a citation and a temporary suspension of service, compelling immediate repair or replacement. Owner‑operators who keep their trucks in good shape will avoid costly penalties, while OTR truck drivers will benefit from smoother, safer highway runs. The real‑time alerts also give fleet managers a clearer picture of vehicle health, helping them schedule preventive maintenance more effectively.

Industry Reaction

Carriers across the state have welcomed the upgrade, noting that early detection of tire problems can cut downtime and repair costs. Trucking companies hiring new drivers now see an added layer of safety compliance, which can be highlighted in recruiting materials. Industry groups have praised the initiative as a proactive step toward meeting FMCSA’s ongoing emphasis on vehicle safety and driver accountability.

Key Points

• 15 TACS units from International Road Dynamics will be deployed at Minnesota Virtual Weigh Stations.
• The system reads tire data at highway and ramp speeds, transmitting results to a web‑based interface.
• Mobile enforcement teams can issue citations or suspend trucks with unsafe tires on the spot.
• The upgrade supports FMCSA regulations and improves overall freight safety on Minnesota roads.

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