Independence Day Safety

As we approach the Independence Day weekend, it's important to take a moment to reflect on what this holiday truly means, and to ensure the safety and security of our communities. With celebrations, road travel, and potential risks to be mindful of, it's crucial to be prepared and informed. Read our latest Safety Bulletin to freshen up on some essential reminders to consider as we gear up for the 4th of July holiday weekend. Read the full Safety Bulletin and subscribe to receive all future Safety Bulletins directly to your inbox.

During this Independence Day weekend, please take a moment to honor America and all we are. Also, remember our military servicemen and women who protect our freedom across the globe and fight for those who do not have the liberty our great country provides. Let us never forget those who have sacrificed before us to protect the United States and the values we hold dear.

Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over

Law enforcement will be extra vigilant about impaired driving during the holiday to keep families safe this Independence Day. Remember, drinking and driving is never okay. Plan for a sober driver if you're going to July 4th parties. If you're hosting, provide nonalcoholic drinks for designated drivers and make sure those who drink have a safe ride home. With ride-share services' availability, there's no excuse for driving impaired. The average cost of a DUI arrest is approximately $13,500, and driving under the influence of prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and marijuana can also result in a DUI.

Have you prepared your terminal facility for the 4th of July holiday?

During the holidays, thieves often target truck terminals and dealerships because they know these places may need better monitoring. To keep your trucks and valuable items safe, here are some essential things to keep in mind:

1. If your trucks don't have anti-theft devices or locking caps, tell your drivers not to fill up the trucks at the end of the day.

2. Make sure all your security alarms and cameras are working. Walk around your lot to check that the security fencing is in good condition and move items like pallets and tires away from the fence so they can't be used to climb over it.

3. Check your security lighting to make sure it's working correctly. Sometimes, lights can be blocked by vehicles or trees, providing cover for thieves.

4. Consider blocking the entrance and exits to the lot so that trucks cannot be stolen.

5. have your management team check the terminal randomly throughout the holiday weekend.

6. Please inform the local police of your holiday hours so they can monitor your location.

By taking these precautions, you can help prevent thieves from targeting your facility and disrupting your business.

Help Your Fleet Drivers Avoid Rear-end Collisions

It is common for drivers to tailgate when they are in a rush, but this practice is not advisable. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, rear-end collisions account for roughly 29% of all accidents in the United States. By not maintaining a sufficient following distance, drivers reduce their reaction time in emergencies, such as when the vehicle in front suddenly brakes to avoid an obstacle. The risk of a collision is further heightened when tailgating is combined with speeding or distracted driving.

A good rule of thumb to gauge the following distance

Your fleet drivers can avoid rear-end crashes by slowing down, maintaining a safe distance, and not tailgating. They can use the 3-second rule to determine proper following distance by choosing a fixed point and ensuring they don't reach it before counting to three.

Prepare your drivers before they take the wheel

Keep in mind:

- Use the 3-second rule for dry and straight roads.

- Adjust for wet or icy conditions.

- Ensure proper vehicle maintenance.

- Avoid distracted driving activities.

Beware - We are now in the busiest time of year for Road Construction

Drivers need to be especially cautious of construction zones this summer. States are making a concentrated effort to raise awareness of the dangers in these zones. Here are some safety tips you can share with your drivers regarding construction zones:

- Slow down and be alert when approaching a "construction zone"

- Get into the correct lane well in advance

- Be cautious of other motorists racing to get ahead of slowing traffic where traffic is merging into a single-lane

- Avoid using your phone; even hands-free devices are distracting

- Pay attention to warning signs

- Be alert for the actions of other drivers

- Pay close attention to construction equipment and workers

- Watch speed limits and avoid tailgating

- Watch for construction vehicles entering and exiting the road

- Turn your headlights on as you approach a work zone

CVSA's Operation Safe Driver Week Is Scheduled for July 7-13

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) has announced that July 7-13 is Operation Safe Driver Week. It's a time when law enforcement in Canada, Mexico, and the U.S. focus on promoting safe driving. They'll be looking out for unsafe behaviors like speeding, not paying attention while driving, following too closely, and driving under the influence. This year, they're especially focusing on reckless, careless, or dangerous driving. They'll be taking action, which could mean giving warnings or tickets to drivers who are not driving safely.

CVSA's Brake Safety Week Scheduled for Aug. 25-31

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) has set the dates for this year's Brake Safety Week to be from August 25th to 31st. Brake Safety Week is focused on making sure that big trucks and their drivers are following safety rules for their brakes. It's a way to make sure that trucks on the roads are safe and follow all the rules. It's also a time when information is collected to help improve brake safety in the future.

Inspection and Enforcement

During Brake Safety Week, CVSA-certified inspectors will be conducting routine commercial motor vehicle inspections, with a specific focus on brake systems and components. Any commercial motor vehicles found to have brake-related out-of-service violations will be taken off the road until the violations are rectified.

This year, the emphasis during the inspections will be on the condition of brake linings and pads. It's important to note that issues with brake linings and pads may lead to vehicle violations and impact a motor carrier's safety rating.

Additionally, it's worth mentioning that some jurisdictions will be using performance-based brake testers (PBBTs) during Brake Safety Week. PBBTs are machines that evaluate a vehicle's braking performance.