RMV Inspects School Vehicles in Hingham, Issues 18 Violations

 The MassDOT RMV teamed up with the Hingham Police  Department on Friday to perform surprise inspections of school transport vehicles at the   on Industrial Park Road.

According to the State Department of Transportation, the surprise compliance check resulted in 18 violations and two criminal complaints.

Registry inspectors and police officers stopped 62 vehicles.  Among the complaints filed- the driver of a South Shore Community Action Council van from Plymouth did not have a valid 7-D license, the DOT reported.  Driving without the required 7-D license carries a $500 fine.

Hingham Officers also issued citations for defective equipment such as bald tires and safety violations such as vehicle overloading and not ensuring that children are properly secured in car seats or seat belts.

Repeat offenders are called in for a hearing with RMV officers which could result in the suspension of their 7-D license.  According to the DOT, drivers of the so-called 7-D vehicles must undergo a criminal background check to apply for a special license. The 7-D vehicles, usually cargo vans and station wagons, must also undergo special inspections twice a year to ensure safety features are working properly.

According to the DOT,  inspections are routinely done throughout the year without prior notice. Earlier this month, the Registry teamed up with Brockton police to issue 17 citations town wide on buses, vans and station wagons carrying youngsters to Brockton elementary schools.