In Minnesota, the Department of Transportation is implementing a new parking system that tells truckers and dispatchers about vacant trucker parking spaces in Interstate rest areas.

Three rest areas along the I-94 corridor have been equipped with the system so far. The technology uses a network of cameras, in-cab messaging and electronic highway signs to notify truckers when there are spaces available to stop and rest. The information can also be found online so that dispatchers can see availabilities and notify drivers in real-time.

This new system could be a major game-changer when it comes to driver fatigue and HOS (Hours of Service) compliance. By knowing how many parking vacancies there are down the road, drivers and dispatchers can decide whether or not they should pull over and rest sooner, or continue driving with the knowledge that there will be a place to park before the work day is over.

Hopefully this new system, and more helpful initiatives like it, will improve working conditions for truckers in the future. Trucker parking is a small, but incredibly important and overlooked, piece of the puzzle. See the full story here:

MnDOT Launches New System to Help Truckers Find Parking Spaces