It’s time! Brake Safety Week started Sunday, August 20th, and will continue through the 26th. Inspectors are now on the roads pulling over commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) to look at brake systems and conduct full roadside inspections throughout the US, Canada, and Mexico.
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.
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Both Level I and Level V inspections will be performed during this safety event. Here’s what inspectors are looking at:
- Mechanical components of air brakes and steering axle air brakes
- Brake adjustments
- Antilock braking systems
- Air loss rate
- Low air pressure warning devices
- Tractor protection systems
- Leaks or cracks in any system components
Other than truck brakes, inspectors are also examining:
- Drivers’ licenses and medical examiner’s certificates
- Hours of service (HOS) and record of duty status (RODS)
- Evidence of drug or alcohol use or possession
- Seat belt use
- Vehicle inspection reports (if applicable)
- Cargo securement
- Other critical components such as coupling devices; driveline/driveshaft; exhaust and fuel systems; frames; lighting devices; steering mechanisms; suspensions; tires, wheels, rims, and hubs.
You’ll Want to Avoid These Major Driver File Violations & Fines
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.
Brake Safety Week 2022 Results
During Brake Safety Week 2022, 13% of the 38,117 inspected CMVs were placed out of service for brake-related violations, according to the CVSA.
Brakes aren’t only an issue during this week’s safety event, either. Brake system and brake adjustment violations accounted for more vehicle violations than any other vehicle violation category during the 2023 International Roadcheck, and they were the reason for 25% of all vehicle out-of-service conditions.
In addition to these alarming findings, the FMCSA has shared:
- “Brake systems” was the third most cited vehicle-related factor in fatal commercial vehicle and passenger vehicle crashes.
- Brake-related violations accounted for five out of the top 20 vehicle violations in 2021.
With this data in mind, it’s easy to see that some carriers 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 roads.
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.
How to Survive Brake Safety Week 2023
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:
- Conducting pre/post-trip inspections
- Wearing their seatbelts
- Maintaining their HOS logs
- Carrying their CDL and med card on their person
- Properly securing their cargo
- Driving sober and avoiding possession of alcohol/drugs
The Significance of DOT Compliance During Brake Safety Week
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 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!
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