The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) is once again gearing up for its annual International Roadcheck Week, which is set to take place from May 16th to May 18th, 2023. This event, also known as the annual DOT Safety Blitz, is the largest targeted enforcement program on commercial vehicles in the world. During this period, commercial vehicles across North America are inspected closely by trained law enforcement personnel to ensure that they are compliant with safety regulations in an effort to improve safety on the highways and reduce the number of accidents involving commercial vehicles.

What will the CVSA put an emphasis on this year?

Each year, the CVSA selects a specific area of focus to ensure that commercial vehicles are meeting safety standards. This year, the emphasis will be on Anti-Lock Braking Systems (ABS) and Cargo Securement, in addition to the usual driver and vehicle safety compliance checks.

ABS

The focus on ABS is timely, given that they are a crucial safety feature that helps prevent wheel lock-up and skidding during braking, especially in adverse weather conditions. Commercial vehicles are often larger and heavier than passenger cars, making them more challenging to maneuver, and the braking system is a vital component in ensuring their safety on the road.

Cargo Securement

In addition to ABS, the CVSA will also be checking cargo securement. Cargo that is not adequately secured can cause accidents by falling off the vehicle or shifting during transport, leading to the loss of life or property. Proper cargo securement is critical to ensuring the safety of all road users.

What else will be looked at during a roadside inspection?

In addition to the focus on ABS and Cargo Securement, the Roadcheck will also concentrate on the usual areas of driver and vehicle safety compliance. During the inspection, commercial vehicles will be checked for compliance with federal regulations governing driver qualifications, hours of service, and vehicle maintenance and safety.

What do you get if you pass an inspection with no violations?

Vehicles that successfully pass a Level I or Level V Inspection without any critical vehicle inspection item violations may receive a CVSA decal, which is valid for three months. This decal indicates that the vehicle has undergone a thorough inspection and meets the safety standards required for commercial vehicles.

In conclusion, the International Roadcheck Week is an essential event that helps to improve the safety of our highways. This year's emphasis on ABS and Cargo Securement highlights the critical role that these components play in ensuring the safety of the vehicle and the driver. Commercial vehicle operators should take advantage of this opportunity to ensure that their vehicles and drivers are in compliance with federal regulations and receive the CVSA decal. By doing so, they can help to make our highways safer for everyone.