Brake Safety Week Aims to Prevent Serious Risks that Cause Crashes

LANSING, MICH. Motor carrier officers from the Michigan State Police, Commercial Vehicle Enforcement
Division (MSP/CVED) will be conducting safety inspections at weigh station facilities and in rest area
locations throughout the state August 25 – 31. This enforcement operation is part of the annual Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) International Brake Safety Week.

“Every day, lives are saved as a result of commercial motor vehicle roadside safety inspections,” said Col.
James F. Grady II, director of the MSP. “Across North America, it is anticipated that more than 65,000 large truck and bus inspections will be conducted during this one-week enforcement operation.”
The inspections will focus on defective equipment violations. 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 will also be asked to provide their operating credentials and hours- of-service documentation. Inspectors will also be attentive to alcohol and/or drug impairment.

“Brake safety awareness, education and outreach to commercial drivers are major elements of International Brake Safety Week,” said MC Insp. Patrick Morris of MSP/CVED. “This transparency aims to remind driversand 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.”