Prepare for roadside inspections during International Roadcheck May 17-19

Post Date - May 12, 2022

The International Roadcheck from the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) is just around the corner! Scheduled for May 17-19, 2022, this effort is the largest targeted enforcement program on commercial motor vehicles in the world, with nearly 15 trucks or buses inspected, on average, every minute across North America.

WHAT IS CVSA CHECKING FOR THIS YEAR?
Each year, CVSA focuses on a specific aspect of a roadside inspection. For 2022, law enforcement officers will focus on wheel ends and their importance in safe truck operations. Wheel-end components, specifically brakes and slack adjusters, support your commercial tuck’s heavy loads, maintain stability and control, and are critical for braking.

According to the CVSA, violations involving wheel end components historically account for about one quarter of the vehicle out-of-service violations discovered during International Roadcheck, and past International Roadcheck data routinely identified wheel end components as a top 10 vehicle violation. Vehicles that successfully pass a North American Standard Level I or Level V Inspection without any critical vehicle inspection item violations may receive a CVSA decal.

As part of Montgomery Transport’s focus on safety and our commitment to have only the best equipment on the road, we wanted to review what to expect on Level I or Level V roadside inspections.

OVERVIEW
Be organized -- DOT-certified inspectors suggest making your documents easy to inspect. Place all your documents in a binder or folder so the inspector can quickly go through everything at once. You’ll look organized and professional and will likely be on your way faster.

Keep your truck clean and know where everything is -- If your truck cab is a mess, the DOT inspector will notice and may see that as a sign you’re not keeping other things in order. A neat and orderly truck sends a signal that you take pride in your equipment and maintain it well.

Be patient with the process
We know you’re ready to get on the road and get your work done but be patient and courteous with inspectors – they’re just doing their job too. First, you’ll be asked to pull over. If you’re in a weigh station, they might have a designated inspection area. If not, you may be pulling off to the side of the road. Depending on the inspection level, you may need to exit the vehicle and receive further instruction from the inspector. If you pass the inspection, you can continue on your way. If you fail, you risk being given an “out of service” status, which means you can’t continue to work until the problems are resolved.

LEVEL I INSPECTIONS
A Level I inspection generally requires a review of your driver’s license, medical examiner’s certificate, driver’s record of duty/ELD status (hours of service), documentation of annual inspection, hazardous materials paperwork, and permit credentials.

The vehicle inspection includes brake, electrical, exhaust, and fuel systems (this is where the wheel ends will get a look!); cargo securement; coupling devices; driveline/driveshaft mechanisms; frames; hazardous materials compliance; lighting devices (headlights, taillights, turn signals, etc.); steering mechanisms; suspensions; tires (including hubs, rims, wheels); van and open-top trailer bodies; and windshield wiper operation.

LEVEL V: VEHICLE-ONLY INSPECTION
A Level V inspection includes all the items in a Level I North American Standard Inspection conducted at any location without needing a driver to be present.

In addition to focusing on driver safety, Montgomery Transport looks after driver satisfaction too! CDL-A flatbed truck drivers enjoy more home time, outstanding pay and bonuses and steady support. We offer CDL-A flatbed truck drivers weekly minimum pay, our new appreciation pay and loyalty program, excellent benefits, and top-of-the-line equipment. If you’re interested in learning more about Montgomery Transport’s career opportunities, connect with us today!