4 minute read
Georgia MCCD Implements Driving Simulator Program
By Lt. Stephen Burnham, Administrative Services Assistant Director, Motor Carrier Compliance Division, Georgia Department of Public Safety
In 2019, the Georgia Motor Carrier Compliance Division (MCCD) started with an ambitious goal to implement a driving simulator program as part of its safety outreach and educational efforts. The initiative was one aspect of its broader mission to enhance highway safety for commercial motor vehicles (CMV), their operators and the general motoring public while operating on Georgia’s roadways. During the program's initial planning and developmental phase, MCCD established an additional committed goal to use this program to reach youth drivers.
Through a comprehensive selection and procurement process, the Georgia Department of Public Safety (DPS) elected to invest financial resources and give life to the program by acquiring a new truck-tractor and a 53’ custom trailer in spring 2021. Housed within the trailer are six simulators that display realistic graphics, enhanced interactive gaming steering wheels and foot pedals. Two primary objectives were established by the Georgia DPS and put into action when the program was unveiled:
OBJECTIVE 1
Provide realistic, hands-on training to non-commercial vehicle drivers to help them better understand the challenges and limitations CMV operators face on a day-to-day basis. Essentially, let them see the road through the eyes of a CMV driver. Does a CMV driver need more distance to stop? Does a CMV need more space to make a turn safely? Is there a difference in the blind spots of a passenger car versus a big truck? Through the simulator program, non-CMV drivers learn that the answer to each of these questions is a resounding “yes.” Creating a safe training environment where non-CMV drivers can experience these challenges firsthand can significantly improve their understanding of how to share the road with CMVs safely.
OBJECTIVE 2
Reach the youth driving population at school and other educational affiliated events. Per a report in the U.S. Department of Transportation National Roadway Safety Strategy, crashes are the leading cause of death for teenagers in America. Youth driving education is crucial for developing safe and responsible young drivers. By simulating real-world driving scenarios, the simulator improves youth driving skills and awareness, ultimately reducing the risk of crashes. The variety of different driving scenarios allows students to practice and make mistakes without real-world consequences, giving them an opportunity to improve and build their driving confidence. Drivers developing their driving skills through the simulator can experience scenarios both in a CMV and a passenger vehicle.
MCCD has partnered with a host of organizations, schools and government agencies to raise CMV safety awareness and provide training. Since the implementation of the program, the driving simulator has proven to be a significant resource for the department’s safety and outreach initiatives. In summary, the driving simulator program is a forward-thinking initiative aimed at improving highway safety in Georgia. By offering non-commercial drivers a firsthand experience of the challenges CMV operators face, the program enhances understanding and promotes safe driving behaviors. Targeting younger drivers ensures that these crucial safety lessons are learned early, contributing to a safer driving environment for everyone on the road.
This initiative highlights the department’s dedication to fostering a culture of safety and awareness among all drivers traveling the state. This proactive effort highlights the Georgia Department of Public Safety’s commitment to creating safer roadways for everyone through innovative, non-traditional law enforcement methods and driver engagement.
If you have any questions, we can be reached at (770) 624-7700. To request the driving simulator in Georgia, visit dps.georgia.gov/form/request-a-driving-simulator.
