CHP: Never Put the Brakes On Safety

Defective brake systems in commercial vehicles constitute a major reason why these vehicles are placed out of service, the California Patrol Highway reported as part of Brake Safety Awareness Week.

Brake Safety Awareness Week, from Sept. 8 – 14, promotes commercial vehicle brake safety. 

More than 1,000 CHP employees are dedicated to commercial vehicle enforcement, and the department operates 51 Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Facilities throughout the state, according to CHP Officer Art Montiel.

The CHP conducts an average of more than 500,000 commercial vehicle inspections annually.

These vehicle inspections, conducted both on-highway and off by the CHP, help ensure commercial vehicle owners and operators are in compliance with state law.

“Our goal is to reduce the number and severity of highway collisions caused by faulty brake systems on commercial vehicles,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow. “Proper brake inspections, maintenance, and operation are the responsibility of drivers and mechanics.”

This year’s week-long, grant-funded effort provides an increased focus on commercial vehicle operation safety and involves both enforcement and education.

In addition to roadside inspections of trucks and buses, the CHP will educate drivers, mechanics, and others on the importance of proper brake inspection maintenance. Grant funding is use to increase resources for the weeklong event.

“The purpose is to improve commercial vehicle brake safety throughout California,” said Farrow. “Our goal is to educate everyone on the importance of this issue so that we can all travel safely on the roadways.”