The 2024 International Roadcheck took place from May 14-16 across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. During these three days, officers conducted 48,761 inspections. These inspections help keep roads safe by making sure trucks and drivers follow safety rules. Here’s a breakdown of the main findings from this year’s event and why they matter.
High Compliance, But Still Many Violations
According to the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA), 77% of trucks and 95.2% of drivers inspected had no serious issues. However, there were still a lot of problems found. A total of 13,567 vehicle violations and 2,714 driver violations were recorded. This led to 9,345 trucks and 2,290 drivers being taken off the road. Overall, 23% of vehicles and 4.8% of drivers were found to be unsafe to continue driving.
Vehicle Violations: Brakes Are a Major Concern
Of the inspections carried out, 40,458 were thorough checks of both vehicles and drivers. As a result, 9,299 vehicles were stopped from operating until their issues were fixed. The most common problem was defective brakes. Safe, working brakes are critical for drivers to control their trucks, especially in emergencies. When brakes fail, it puts everyone on the road at risk.
The CVSA’s Operation Airbrake works to reduce accidents caused by brake problems. This program focuses on educating drivers and mechanics about how important it is to keep brakes in good condition.
CVSA Decals Awarded for Safe Vehicles
Trucks that passed their inspections without any major issues were given a CVSA decal. These decals are valid for three months and show that the vehicle met safety standards. During the Roadcheck, inspectors gave out 17,395 decals. These trucks are typically not inspected again during that time, though it is still possible.
Special Focus: Tractor Protection Systems
Each year, the Roadcheck emphasizes specific areas for both vehicles and drivers. This year, the vehicle focus was on tractor protection systems (TPS). These systems help protect a truck’s air supply and stop air loss if the truck becomes disconnected from its trailer. Inspectors found 564 violations related to TPS systems.
Driver Violations: Hours-of-Service Still a Top Issue
Driver inspections focused on hours-of-service (HOS) rules. These rules are meant to prevent driver fatigue, which can lead to crashes. During the Roadcheck, 2,290 drivers were found to be in violation of these rules, with 870 of those drivers being taken off the road. Fatigue is a major concern in the trucking industry, and HOS rules are in place to help keep drivers and the public safe.
Alcohol and Controlled Substances: A Key Driver Focus
This year’s Roadcheck also placed a focus on alcohol and drug possession. Inspectors found 78 drivers with drugs and 26 with alcohol. In the U.S., 63 drivers were found to be driving despite being listed in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse, a database that tracks drivers with violations related to drugs and alcohol. These drivers were immediately taken off the road.
Seat Belt Violations: Still a Problem
Another issue found during the Roadcheck was seat belt usage. A total of 535 drivers were fined for not wearing their seat belts. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) says that about 14% of commercial drivers still do not use their seat belts. The FMCSA plans to conduct a survey to learn why some drivers continue to ignore this important safety measure.
Hazardous Materials Violations: Loading Issues
The inspection also focused on trucks carrying hazardous materials and dangerous goods. During the event, 163 violations were found in this category. The most common problem was with improper loading, which can lead to safety risks for the public and transport workers alike.
CVSA Roadcheck 2024 Inspection Levels and Findings
The 48,761 inspections were broken down into different levels:
- Level I (29,342 inspections): This is the most detailed inspection, checking both the driver’s credentials and the truck’s safety.
- LevelII (10,098 inspections): A walk-around inspection where the inspector checks the truck and driver without going under the vehicle.
- Level III (8,303 inspections): This focuses only on the driver’s paperwork, including hours-of-service and drug records.
- Level V (1,018 inspections): This is a vehicle-only inspection, with no driver involved.
Most inspections are Level I, but inspectors can choose another level depending on the situation.
CVSA Roadcheck 2024: Country-Specific Results
The results from the Roadcheck varied across North America.
United States: U.S. inspectors carried out 42,332 inspections. They found 11,675 vehicle violations and 2,619 driver violations. Brake issues were the most common vehicle problem, while hours-of-service violations were the top driver issue.
Canada: Canadian inspectors completed 5,411 inspections. They found 1,798 vehicle violations and 102 driver violations. Canada’s vehicle out-of-service rate was lower than in the U.S.
Mexico: Mexico focused on vehicle inspections only, with 1,018 conducted. Inspectors found 94 violations, with tires being the most common problem.
