DOT Week 2024: What You Need to Know

Every year, from May to June, truck drivers and carriers in Canada, Mexico, and the U.S. go through audits to ensure they follow commercial vehicle rules. The audits, led by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Administration (CVSA), focus on promoting safety on international highways. The CVSA works with local inspectors and highway patrol to check vehicles at inspection stations, through patrols, and at temporary checkpoints. 

During a 72-hour period, truckers are inspected for their adherence to safety rules. While various aspects may be checked, the CVSA usually focuses on specific elements each year to streamline the process. When things run smoothly, law enforcement can inspect about 15 trucks every minute during this International Roadcheck.

International Roadchecks assess drivers in areas that may include any of the following:

• The mechanical health of their vehicle (brakes, engines, lights, steering functions, fuel systems, cargo securement)

• Driver credentials

• Hours of service (HOS) adherence and documentation

• Drug/Alcohol impairment

• Proper permitting (where applicable)

While trucks might undergo checks for various factors, the main focus of these inspections is usually narrowed down to one or two key areas each year. This targeted approach, concentrating on specific roadside inspection elements, aids the CVSA and its partners in streamlining compliance checks.

When is DOT Blitz Week in 2024?

This year, the “blitz week” will begin in the morning on Tuesday, May 14, and end in the evening on Thursday, May 16. The International Roadcheck will have two main focus areas this year. In 2024, the CSVA and its partners will primarily focus on inspecting the following:

• Tractor protection systems

• Alcohol and controlled substance protection

Tractor Protector System Inspection

Essential safety features such as the anti-bleed back valve, trailer supply valve, and trailer protection valve in tractor protector systems play a crucial role in ensuring safety. Regular evaluation, testing, and maintenance of these systems are extremely important. In the upcoming International Roadcheck's "vehicle" inspection phase, special emphasis will be placed on thoroughly examining these systems to verify they are in full working order.

Here is what drivers can expect during an inspection this year: 

• The officer will instruct them to release all brakes by pressing dash valves.

• They will need to remove the gladhands and allow air to escape.

• Air should stop leaking from the supply line with at least 20 psi remaining.

• Inspectors will look for any leaking air at the gladhand couplers on the trailer.

• Inspectors will request a full-service brake application from the driver.

• Inspectors will listen and feel for leaks from both air lines.
  

In addition, drivers should also expect to be assessed on general equipment maintenance like:

• Lights 

• Braking systems

• Hours of service (HOS) logs

• Permits (where applicable)

Alcohol and Controlled Substance Inspection

Law enforcement officials have consistently expressed worry about drug and alcohol impairment among truck drivers. In the last decade, the Drug and Alcohol Clearing House has been steadily expanding its roster of truck drivers restricted from operating due to violations related to drug/alcohol impairment and possession. While there are strict policies in place to prevent drug and alcohol possession and use while on duty, the ongoing increase in these violations year after year is a cause for concern.

Here is what to expect during the alcohol and controlled substance inspection:

• Inspectors will observe the driver for signs of alcohol or controlled substance use or impairment.

• Inspectors will examine the cab and trailer for alcohol or controlled substances.

• Inspectors will conduct a query in the DACH.
  

Conclusion

In a nutshell, as DOT Blitz Week of 2024 approaches, it's crucial for the trucking industry to prioritize safety. This event shines a spotlight on important aspects like vehicle checks, driver hours, and qualifications. By staying informed and implementing strong safety measures, we can all play a part in making our roads safer. Let's use DOT Blitz Week as a chance to show our commitment to safety and make a positive impact on the trucking community. Safe travels ahead!