One of the important events on the trucking industry’s calendar is the mass inspection event aimed at commercial vehicles on the highways of the U.S., Canada and Mexico.
During the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s International Roadcheck scheduled for May 13-15, law enforcement inspectors will be on the lookout for violations pertaining to drivers and vehicles.
Last year, 48,761 inspections were conducted. A total of 9,345 vehicles and 2,290 drivers were placed out of service.
Each year, Roadcheck designates two areas of special emphasis; one for driver violations and the other for vehicle violations. During this year’s Roadcheck, drivers’ hours of service records will be closely examined. The focus for equipment will be on proper tire maintenance, as examiners conduct 37-step Level 1 inspections.
CVSA says, “The importance of proper tire maintenance cannot be overstated. Tire failure while in transit is a hazard to all motorists. It is also far more expensive and time consuming for motor carriers to repair an in-transit tire failure versus proactively maintaining tire health and addressing tire issues before the vehicle is on the road.”
During International Roadcheck, inspectors will check tires’ tread depth and proper inflation. They will also be on the lookout for tire damage, such as air leaks, tread separation, cuts, bulges, sidewall damage and improper repairs.
During the vehicle portion of the Level I Inspection, inspectors ensure a tractor-trailer’s various mechanical systems are compliant with applicable regulations including:
- brake systems
- cargo securement
- coupling devices
- driveline/driveshaft components
- driver’s seat
- fuel and exhaust systems
- Frames
- lighting devices
- steering mechanisms
- suspensions
- tires
- wheels
- rims
- hubs
- windshield wipers
Inspections of motorcoaches, passenger vans and other passenger-carrying vehicles also include the examination of emergency exits, seating, and electrical cables and systems in the engine and battery compartments.
A vehicle that successfully passes a Level I or V Inspection without any critical vehicle inspection item violations may receive a CVSA decal, which is valid for up to three months.
If out-of-service violations are found during an inspection, the vehicle will be restricted from operating until all out-of-service violations have been properly addressed.
