Lansing, MI - Motor carrier officers from the Michigan State Police, Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division (MSP/CVED) will be conducting inspections at weigh station facilities and in rest area locations throughout the state with a focus on brake hose/tubing chafing and defective equipment violations.
This enforcement operation is part of the annual Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) International Brake Safety Week and will take place throughout North America Aug. 20-26.
Lives are saved each day as a result of commercial motor vehicle roadside inspections. It is anticipated that more than 65,000 drivers of large truck and buses will be inspected during this one-week North American operation.
The vehicle inspection includes checking brake systems, cargo securement, coupling devices, driveline/driveshaft components, frames, fuel systems, lighting devices, steering mechanisms, suspensions, tires, van and open-top trailer bodies, wheels, and electrical systems. Drivers are asked to provide their operating credentials and hours-of-service documentation. Inspectors will also be attentive to apparent alcohol and/or drug impairment.
Brake safety awareness, education and outreach are major elements of the Brake Safety Week campaign. This transparency aims to remind drivers and motor carriers to take proactive steps to ensure their commercial motor vehicles are safe and compliant with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. Improperly installed or poorly maintained brake systems can reduce the braking capacity and stopping distance of trucks or buses, which poses a serious safety risk.