Did your truck check out? June 4-6, 2013, the CVSA conducted Roadcheck 2013, the largest targeted safety enforcement and outreach event in the world. Over a 72-hour period, approximately 10,000 CVSA and FMCSA-certified inspectors at 2,500 locations across North America performed truck and bus inspections aimed at motor carrier, vehicle, driver and cargo safety. In 2013, the organization issued approximately 30,500 CVSA decals to trucks and buses that were violation-free in the critical inspection areas. In preparation for 2014, to receive a CVSA decal, proper maintenance and routine safety checks can ensure you get one at your next roadside inspection.
The CVSA recommends the following tips to keep your truck or bus safe and help you avoid violations:
1) Wear a seatbelt. It sounds simple, but close to 900 seatbelt violations were issued at Roadcheck 2013. Buckling up will help you avoid unnecessary violations and, more importantly, help you stay safe.
2) Inspect your brakes. One of the biggest factors in commercial truck and bus crashes is insufficient brake maintenance. Brake system-related violations are also one of the top reasons a vehicle is placed out of service. Be sure to do the following when examining your brakes:
- Check for missing, non-functioning, loose, contaminated or cracked parts on the brake system.
- Check for audible air leaks around brake components and lines.
- Check brake adjustment and measure pushrod travel.
Ask your Kenworth service advisor for additional information on brake maintenance and safety.
3) Check your lighting. Look at all required lamps for proper color, operation, mounting and visibility. Consider replacing any cracked or broken lights with all-makes TRP LED lights for an energy-efficient and durable option. TRP LED lights don’t contain filament and have a high-impact polycarbonate lens for greater nighttime visibility.
4) Pre-inspect your vehicle. Check for any load securement issues and make sure your mirrors are clean and adjusted properly.