This year’s focus area is brake lining/pad violations, which repeatedly prove to be top contributors to violations and out-of-service orders, according to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) data.
34% of driver violations can be prevented with Foley’s MVR Monitoring
Level I and Level V inspections will be performed during this safety event. Here’s what inspectors are looking at:
Other than truck brakes, inspectors are also examining:
A CVSA decal will be given to all inspected vehicles that do not have any critical violations found during Level I or V Inspections.
On the other hand, if vehicles with critical vehicle inspection item violations are found, they may be placed out of service if they meet the North American Standard Out-of-Service Criteria. These vehicles may not be operated until the violations are addressed.
During Brake Safety Week 2023, 12.6% of the 18,875 inspected CMVs were placed out of service for brake-related violations, according to the CVSA.
In addition to these alarming findings, the FMCSA has shared:
With this data in mind, it’s easy to see that some companies simply don’t prioritize regular vehicle maintenance and repairs. This can put their drivers’ safety at risk and potentially contribute to fatal accidents involving other drivers on the roadways.
You don’t have to add to these statistics; your company can survive Brake Safety Week without any violations — if you’re prepared, that is.
While this year’s safety event is already underway, it’s not too late to inspect your CMVs before your employees take to the streets. If anything seems out of order or needs to be fixed, avoid using the vehicles in question until all necessary repairs are made.
You should always follow this protocol during everyday business operations — not just during Brake Safety Week. You are the one who is responsible for the safety of your company’s vehicles and employees!
Reminding your drivers to operate their CMVs compliantly also goes a long way. Make sure your drivers are doing the following to help avoid failing a Level I inspection:
Last but certainly not least, you must ensure you are compliant in all other required areas to avoid fines and out-of-service orders. Maintaining your driver qualification files as well as performing and documenting required drug and alcohol tests and Clearinghouse queries goes a long way with the DOT.
If you’re struggling with managing your DOT compliance requirements, need help with DOT recordkeeping, or simply need your compliance questions answered, Foley is here to help.
Our DOT compliance software solution, Dash, is an all-in-one program that addresses your unique compliance concerns. Get a free software demo today so next year’s Brake Safety Week is a breeze!