CVSA's Brake Safety Week 2024: Everything You Need to Know

What is CVSA's Brake Safety Week?

Brake Safety Week is an annual initiative organized by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) to emphasize the critical role of brake systems in commercial motor vehicle (CMV) safety. During this week, CVSA-certified inspectors conduct thorough vehicle inspections, focusing specifically on brake components and systems.

When is Brake Safety Week 2024?

Brake Safety Week 2024 is scheduled for August 25-31.

Why is Brake Safety Important?

Brake failures are a leading cause of commercial vehicle accidents. Proper brake maintenance is essential for preventing these accidents, protecting drivers, and ensuring public safety.

What to Expect During Brake Safety Week

CVSA-certified inspectors will be conducting routine CMV inspections throughout the week, with a particular emphasis on brake systems. This includes:

• Inspection of brake components: Inspectors will carefully examine brake linings, pads, drums, rotors, hoses, and other critical parts.

• Brake performance tests: Vehicles may undergo brake performance tests to assess stopping distances and efficiency.

• Out-of-service orders: Vehicles with critical brake issues will be placed out of service until repairs are made.

How Can You Prepare for Brake Safety Week?

To avoid potential issues during Brake Safety Week, it's crucial to prioritize brake maintenance:

• Conduct regular inspections: Perform thorough pre-trip inspections to identify any brake problems early on.

• Check brake components: Inspect brake linings, pads, drums, and rotors for wear, cracks, or other damage.

• Maintain proper air pressure: Ensure your air brake system is operating at the correct pressure.

• Address warning signs: Pay attention to any unusual noises, vibrations, or brake performance changes.

• Schedule necessary repairs: Fix any brake-related issues promptly.

Remember: Brake-related violations are the most common cause of out-of-service vehicle orders during roadside inspections. By investing time and resources into brake maintenance, you can significantly reduce the risk of being sidelined and ensure the safety of your drivers and the public.

For more information, visit the CVSA website: https://www.cvsa.org/

Would you like to know more about specific brake components or maintenance tips? Check out this flyer from CVSA!

CVSA's Operation Safe Driver Week: Everything You Need to Know

CVSA's Operation Safe Driver Week: Promoting Road Safety

Every year, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) holds Operation Safe Driver Week, a week-long campaign dedicated to improving road safety through education and enforcement. This initiative targets both commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers and passenger vehicle drivers.

Focus on Reckless Driving

This year's Operation Safe Driver Week, which takes place from July 7th to 13th, 2024, will focus on curbing reckless, careless, and dangerous driving behaviors. Law enforcement officers will be on the lookout for actions that disregard the safety of others on the road, such as speeding, distracted driving, and following too closely.

Collaborative Effort

The program is a collaborative effort between CVSA, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), state, provincial, and local law enforcement agencies, and the industry. By working together, they aim to significantly reduce the number of deaths and injuries caused by traffic crashes involving large trucks, buses, and passenger vehicles.

Last Year's Impact

Despite the challenges of the pandemic, Operation Safe Driver Week 2023 saw a significant impact. Law enforcement officers interacted with over 66,000 drivers, issuing warnings and citations to those engaging in unsafe behaviors. This highlights the program's effectiveness in raising awareness and encouraging safer driving practices.

Promoting Safety Throughout the Year

While Operation Safe Driver Week serves as an intensive enforcement period, the CVSA's commitment to road safety extends throughout the year. They offer a variety of resources and educational programs for both CMV and passenger vehicle drivers.

By participating in Operation Safe Driver Week and following safe driving practices year-round, we can all contribute to making our roads safer for everyone.

Key Dates for CVSA's 2024 Enforcement Initiatives

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) holds several key events throughout the year to promote commercial motor vehicle safety. Here's a quick rundown of CVSA's 2024 enforcement initiatives:

• International Roadcheck (May 14-16): This large-scale enforcement effort focuses on inspecting trucks and buses for safety violations.

• Operation Safe Driver Week (July 7-13): This week-long campaign targets unsafe driving behaviors by both commercial and passenger vehicle drivers.

• Brake Safety Week (August 25-31): During this week, inspectors will conduct thorough brake system checks on commercial vehicles. 

By being aware of these CVSA events, drivers and carriers can take proactive steps to ensure their vehicles are compliant and their drivers are operating safely.

For more information about these enforcement initiatives, check out CVSA.