Annual Trooper in a Truck campaign, July 14-18

Drivers on Wisconsin’s highways may notice something different next week– State Patrol troopers riding along with semitruck and bus drivers. It is all part of the annual Trooper in a Truck enforcement and education initiative. Through a partnership with the Wisconsin Motor Carriers Association (WMCA), Wisconsin State Patrol troopers use the higher vantage point to spot dangerous driving behaviors, especially near commercial motor vehicles (CMV). Trooper in a truck will take place on highways across the state on July 14-18.

“We’re grateful for the partnerships that support Trooper in a Truck and strengthen our goal of zero preventable deaths on Wisconsin’s roads,” Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan said. “Safe roads rely on everyone to do their part and drive responsibly.”

Troopers will be looking for risky driving behaviors, including distracted driving, speeding, following too closely and seatbelt violations. When an officer identifies a violation from the truck or bus, they will radio to patrol cars in the area for appropriate enforcement action.

“This initiative has been incredibly effective in past years,” WMCA President Dan Johnson said. “It’s about using creative partnerships and shared resources to make our roads safer for everyone.”

Trooper in a Truck is part of Operation Safe Driver Week, a nationwide awareness and enforcement initiative aimed at improving driving behaviors of passenger vehicle and CMV drivers. 

Drivers can expect to see Trooper in a Truck enforcement in the following areas:

·       July 14, 2025: Hudson 

·       July 15, 2025: Waukesha 

·       July 16, 2025: Madison 

·       July 17, 2025: Green Bay 

·       July 18, 2025:  Wausau

State Patrol troopers and inspectors work regularly to enforce traffic laws to reduce crashes involving CMVs, including enforcement details in areas with safety challenges. During this detail, officers will be on high alert for any dangerous driving occurring in the vicinity of the CMV.