The operation ran from March 29 through April 3, targeting rural state roads in and around the Clayton area through a mix of patrol activity and temporary inspection sites.

“Strike Team officers, K9 officers, and transportation inspectors worked together to perform saturation patrols and establish temporary inspection sites on rural state roads throughout the Clayton area,” the report stated. “Everyone involved put in long days and countless hours to promote roadway safety and reduce commercial vehicle crashes impacting the flow of commerce in northeastern New Mexico.”

Enforcement Results From the Operation

Over the course of the week, officers and inspectors logged the following activity

• 698 commercial vehicle safety inspections
• 59 vehicles placed out of service
• 32 drivers placed out of service
• 175 cargo checks completed
• 286 moving violation citations issued
•  10 equipment violation citations issued
•  301 total CMV citations
• 285 transportation enforcement inspections
• 2 overweight violations
• 112 portable weight checks conducted

Increased Presence on Rural Routes

The operation focused on rural corridors where permanent inspection infrastructure is limited. By combining mobile inspection setups with active patrols, enforcement teams were able to cover a wider area and increase contact with commercial vehicles moving through the region.

Coordinated Enforcement Approach

Multiple units took part in the effort, bringing together inspection personnel, patrol officers, and K9 teams. This approach allowed enforcement to address both vehicle compliance and broader safety concerns during the same operation.

Ongoing Focus on Compliance and Safety

Operations like this are used to identify violations, remove unsafe vehicles or drivers from service when necessary, and maintain safer conditions across key freight routes. The volume of inspections and out-of-service orders reflects a concentrated enforcement window in northeastern New Mexico during that timeframe.

The post New Mexico CMV Enforcement Operation Brings High Inspection Volume to Clayton appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

These criteria are used by enforcement to determine whether a driver or vehicle poses an imminent hazard. If it does, that unit is placed out of service until the issue is corrected.

A total of 17 changes were approved for 2026. Here is the full breakdown.

Full List of 2026 Updates

• “Part I, Item 2. Operator’s/Chauffer’s License or Permit (Non-CDL) b. and c.” and “Part I, Item 3. Commercial Driver’s License, c. and d. Endorsements and Restrictions” were amended to separate endorsements and restrictions and clarify the violation codes.
• A note on intrastate restriction was added to “Part I, Item 3. Commercial Driver’s License, c. Endorsements and Restrictions.”
• “Part I, Item 8. Intoxicating Beverages, b. Be on Duty or Operate” was amended to state that when the driver has wine or beer with an alcohol content of 0.5% or more, or any distilled spirit, the driver is out of service.
• “Part I, Item 10. Driver’s Record of Duty Status – U.S., a. Property-Carrying Vehicles (6) and (7)” were amended to include situations where the inspector can determine actual driving or rest periods, even if records are false.
• A new out-of-service condition was added under “Part I, Item 10… (8)” for both property and passenger carriers when tampering makes it impossible to determine what events occurred.
• The reference to automatic onboard recording devices was removed from “Part I, Item 10… Footnote 6” due to regulatory changes.
• The note in “Part I, Item 11. Driver’s Record of Duty Status – Canada, h. No Daily Log” was moved to “i. No Previous 14 Days” for better alignment.
• Out-of-service conditions in “Part II, Item 1. Brake Systems” related to defective brakes and air brake hose or tubing were moved into the 20% defective brake threshold section. The term service gladhands was updated to service air connections.
• Hydraulic and electric brake lining measurement language was updated to better align with federal regulations.
• “Parking Brake” now reads “Parking or Emergency Brake” to reflect both functions.
• The ExTe Com90 securement system was added under cargo securement rules for logs.
• A new damage chart was added to the tiedown defect table for wire rope.
• A section specific to countersunk screws was added under upper coupler requirements, including kingpin.
• New language addresses missing pieces of rims, and the previous language about center holes between cracks was removed.
• “Part II, Item 14… Hubs (5)” was removed due to inconsistent enforcement.
• A new out-of-service condition applies when emergency exits are marked but do not include operating instructions.
• Language was added to clarify that missing placards for multiple divisions within the same class can result in an out-of-service condition.
• A new chart outlines seven types of federal out-of-service orders to improve enforcement clarity.

What This Means on the Road

These updates are not minor wording changes. They shape how inspections are handled and how quickly a situation can escalate into an out-of-service violation.

Areas like ELD accuracy, brake condition, and cargo securement continue to be a high focus. At the same time, clearer language around licensing, placards, and equipment standards removes some of the gray area that used to exist during inspections.

Staying Prepared

The full 2026 out-of-service criteria is available through the CVSA online store and as a mobile app.

Knowing these updates before the next inspection can be the difference between rolling through or sitting until a violation is cleared. Staying organized, keeping equipment in check, and understanding how inspectors apply these rules all play into keeping operations moving.

For questions about the criteria, contact Kerri Wirachowsky, CVSA’s director of inspection programs, at kerri.wirachowsky@cvsa.org or call 202-998-1650.

The post CVSA 2026 Out of Service Criteria Now Active Across North America appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

From January 12 through January 16, the Indiana State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division partnered with the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance as part of the annual Human Trafficking Awareness Initiative. The initiative is taking place across North America during the same timeframe.

During the effort, Indiana State Police are engaging with commercial motor vehicle drivers during roadside inspections and other enforcement activities. Officers are distributing educational materials provided by TAT, formerly known as Truckers Against Trafficking, to increase awareness and help identify potential signs of trafficking.

Why Transportation Corridors Matter

Human trafficking, as defined by the United Nations, involves the exploitation of people through force, fraud, or deception for profit. Transportation corridors often intersect with locations where trafficking activity can occur, including truck stops, rest areas, and other high-traffic facilities.

Commercial drivers are frequently present in these environments, placing them in a unique position to notice situations that may otherwise go unseen. More than 40 percent of cases reported by truck drivers involve minors, underscoring the importance of awareness within the industry.

Part of a Broader Prevention Program

The Human Trafficking Awareness Initiative is one component of CVSA’s larger Human Trafficking Prevention Program. The program combines enforcement activity with education and outreach, aiming to reduce trafficking through consistent engagement across the commercial vehicle industry.

Training efforts tied to TAT continue to expand nationwide. Nearly 2.5 million trucking professionals have completed training through the organization, reflecting broad participation across carriers, drivers, and industry partners.

Awareness Beyond a Single Week

While the initiative is tied to a specific calendar window, participating agencies emphasize that awareness and reporting do not end when the week concludes. Materials distributed during inspections are intended to reinforce long-term recognition and encourage continued vigilance throughout the year.

The Indiana effort reflects how education, enforcement, and industry participation intersect in addressing human trafficking within the transportation network.

Source: WFFT

The post Human Trafficking Awareness Effort Brings Education to Indiana Truck Stops appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

While it may seem like just another enforcement blitz, this initiative carries serious implications for carriers and drivers, especially those already grappling with CSA scores or FMCSA oversight.

This year, the focus is on speeding, a leading cause of truck-related fatalities. According to NHTSA data, speeding contributes to nearly one-third of fatal crashes. But this week isn’t just about issuing tickets—it’s a chance for fleets to address unsafe practices before they spiral into costly compliance issues, higher insurance premiums, lost business, or even shutdowns.

What is CVSA Safe Driver Week?

CVSA Safe Driver Week is a coordinated effort across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico aimed at identifying and addressing unsafe driving behaviors in both commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operators and passenger drivers. During this week, law enforcement will issue warnings and citations for violations such as:

• Speeding, tailgating, and aggressive lane changes.
• Distracted driving, including mobile phone use.
• Seat belt infractions.
• Ignoring traffic control devices.

The overarching goal? To deter dangerous driving and hold operators accountable through roadside interventions. As CVSA emphasizes, the focus is on ensuring the safe operation of all commercial vehicles.

Why This Matters for Fleets and Drivers

It’s easy to dismiss Safe Driver Week as a temporary inconvenience, but it’s part of a much larger picture. These enforcement periods directly impact your FMCSA profile, shaping your safety reputation in the eyes of insurers, brokers, and shippers.

Every violation recorded during these blitzes contributes to your CSA scores, and repeated issues in areas like unsafe driving, HOS compliance, or vehicle maintenance can trigger a domino effect:

• Higher ISS Scores: The FMCSA’s Inspection Selection System (ISS) uses your safety performance to determine how often your fleet gets inspected. A high ISS score means more frequent stops, even if your trucks are running clean.
• Increased Inspections = More Violations: Each inspection creates an opportunity for additional write-ups, especially if past issues haven’t been addressed.
• Noncompliance Cycle: Once your BASIC scores hit the alert threshold, it becomes harder to secure top-tier freight or renew insurance policies, especially in today’s tough insurance market.

Building a Clean Inspection Strategy

Breaking the cycle of noncompliance starts with a proactive approach. Don’t wait until Safe Driver Week to act—make safety a daily priority. Here’s how:

1. Train Drivers Proactively: Educate your team on behaviors that trigger enforcement stops, like speeding or distracted driving.
2. Coach Respectful Interactions: Teach drivers how to handle roadside inspections professionally and accurately.
3. Leverage Safety Technology: Invest in tools like AI-enabled dashcams, driver scoring systems, and real-time coaching platforms to identify and correct unsafe behaviors before they lead to violations.

As CVSA officers focus on speeding, distracted driving, and seatbelt use this July, fleets equipped with AI-backed safety systems will have a significant advantage. These tools not only prevent accidents but also reduce the likelihood of citations. Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Beyond Safe Driver Week: Other CVSA Events to Watch

Safe Driver Week is just one of several CVSA initiatives designed to address specific compliance risks. Upcoming events include:

• Brake Safety Week (August 25–31, 2025): This annual campaign targets brake system violations, one of the most common out-of-service issues. Inspectors will focus on brake components, lining conditions, and air system integrity during Level I and IV inspections.

Each event is an opportunity to strengthen your compliance strategy. If you’re only learning about these blitzes a week in advance, you’re already behind. Smart fleets conduct year-round internal audits, mock inspections, and data reviews to stay ahead of the curve.

Why Out-of-Service Criteria Are Critical

The CVSA Out-of-Service (OOS) Criteria outlines violations that can immediately sideline a truck or driver until the issue is resolved. Updated annually, these criteria are essential for maintaining compliance. Building checklists around OOS standards can help fleets avoid costly downtime, legal trouble, and reputational damage.

The Hidden Costs of Neglecting Safety

Failing to prepare for enforcement events doesn’t just result in tickets—it can lead to:

• Skyrocketing insurance premiums or policy cancellations.
• Lost contracts with shippers and brokers who monitor CSA data.
• Downtime, repair expenses, and towing fees for out-of-service vehicles.
• Increased driver turnover due to unclear compliance structures.
• FMCSA audits or interventions.

In today’s competitive freight market, safety isn’t just about compliance—it’s about protecting your brand, revenue, and long-term survival.

Final Thoughts: Turning Enforcement into Opportunity

For fleet managers, owner-operators, and safety directors, events like Operation Safe Driver Week shouldn’t be seen as threats. Instead, view them as opportunities to improve.

Every clean inspection, every corrected behavior, and every investment in driver support brings you closer to lowering your ISS score, avoiding FMCSA intervention, and positioning your fleet as a top-tier carrier in a highly scrutinized industry.

Source: Freightwaves

The post Get Ready: CVSA Safe Driver Week is Approaching appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Streamlining Inspections with Innovative Technology

“We’re thrilled to announce this industry-first capability, starting with Nevada,” said Shay Demmons, CPO at Fleetworthy. “Our PreClear weigh station bypass customers can activate Expedited Inspection through their ELD, and once done, they’re set with Nevada and any new states as they come on board.”

The service is currently available at weigh stations in Nevada, supported by Geotab and Platform Science ELDs, with plans for expansion into additional states soon.

Redefining Roadside Inspection Efficiency

Expedited Inspection securely automates the transfer of fleet and vehicle registration data to pre-fill inspection forms. Additionally, the solution delivers a driver’s Electronic Record of Duty Status (eRODS) directly to enforcement officers, reducing manual data entry and accelerating inspection times. The process not only lowers driver stress but also minimizes time spent at inspection sites and decreases risks, particularly violations related to Hours of Service data, one of the most common violations.

According to Nevada Highway Patrol Lieutenant Tappan Cornmesser, “By partnering with Drivewyze by Fleetworthy on Expedited Inspection, we’re empowering our officers with tools that reduce manual tasks and speed up inspections. Automating the secure transfer of Hours of Service records and pre-filling inspection forms allows us to focus on enforcement rather than paperwork, saving time for drivers, boosting accuracy, and keeping commerce flowing.”

Aligning Technology with Fleet Performance

Fleetworthy is using its Drivewyze PreClear network, North America’s largest bypass network, to deliver additional value to fleets. Although random inspections still occur, Expedited Inspection offers significant benefits by automating traditionally time-consuming manual tasks, saving fleets and inspectors time, resources, and stress.

“Our focus is on fleet performance, which means providing top-tier safety, automation, and a better driver experience,” said Emilie Campbell, Senior Director of Partner Management at Platform Science. “By now offering Expedited Inspection in our ELD, we are continuing to be at the forefront of the next generation of compliance technology. We look forward to offering this new feature to our industry-leading customers who expect cutting-edge innovation and operational excellence from us.”

Demmons underlined the importance of this innovation to the transportation sector, stating, “By removing the manual handoff of HOS data and automating the inspection workflow, we’re helping fleets get back on the road faster while giving enforcement tools to keep highways safe.”

Fleetworthy’s Expedited Inspection is poised to redefine roadside compliance, creating smoother, more efficient processes for both drivers and inspectors.

Image Source: DriveWyze
Source: The Trucker

The post Fleetworthy Launches Expedited Inspection Service in Nevada appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

CVED’s mission primarily centers on monitoring trucks exceeding 10,000 lbs., ensuring that they adhere to federal and state laws crafted specifically for large commercial vehicles. The operation addressed unsafe practices and encouraged compliance for a safer highway environment.

Results of the Operation

The enforcement blitz produced significant findings of unsafe practices among commercial vehicle operators. These results included a variety of violations, inspections, and incidents:

• Speeding Violations: 47 total (15 tickets issued and 32 warnings given)
• Seatbelt Violations: 7 instances
• Other Violations: 43 reported cases
• Criminal Defendants: 2 individuals
• Truck Inspections Conducted:
  • 29 Level 3 inspections
  • 10 Level 2 inspections
  • 3 Level 1 inspections
• Total Violations Uncovered in Inspections: 126 infractions recorded

Key Focus Areas

The operation specifically targeted the ten major causes of commercial vehicle crashes. These included:

1. Following too closely
2. Disregarding traffic control devices
3. Unsafe or improper lane changes
4. Speeding or driving too fast for conditions
5. Failure to yield
6. Operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) while fatigued or ill
7. Seatbelt non-compliance in CMVs
8. Operating a CMV with a radar detector
9. Texting while driving
10. Using a handheld cellphone in a CMV

Advancing Compliance and Awareness

During the campaign, Sgt. Dale Turner emphasized the importance of the division’s ongoing work. “The Indiana State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division remains committed to ensuring commercial vehicles remain compliant with applicable laws and regulations. Focused efforts like this raise awareness and voluntary compliance with those laws and regulations,” Turner stated.

Why These Efforts Matter

These targeted enforcement measures are critical in improving highway safety by addressing crash-related behaviors at their root. By raising awareness and identifying violations, agencies like Indiana’s CVED ensure commercial vehicles operate in a way that prioritizes public safety.

Source: Truckers News
Image Source: WItz AMFM

The post Indiana State Police Discover 126 Violations in Targeted Enforcement Campaign appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

What’s New in the 2025 Out-of-Service Criteria?

Last year, CVSA’s voting members approved 15 key modifications to the out-of-service criteria. These adjustments are now active and will impact inspections across North America. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most notable changes:

• License Endorsements & Restrictions: Updates have been made to “Part I, Item 2. Operator’s/Chauffeur’s License or Permit (Non-CDL), B. Endorsements and Restrictions” and “Part I, Item 3. Commercial Driver’s License, c. Endorsements and Restrictions” to clarify Canada’s Transportation of Dangerous Goods Certificate requirements.
• Commercial Learner’s Permit: “Part I, Item 3. Commercial Driver’s License, b. Commercial Learner’s Permit (1)” now explicitly states that a supervising driver for a learner must be fully authorized to operate a commercial vehicle.
• Medical Certification Updates: In “Part I, Item 4. Driver Medical/Physical Requirements, b. Medical Certificate (3),” passenger-carrying and property-carrying vehicles are now included under the same out-of-service condition, removing property-carrying vehicles from a separate clause.
• Brake System Changes: A new out-of-service condition has been added for inoperative brakes caused by an unplugged electrical cable in “Part II, Item 1. Brake Systems, A. Defective Brakes, (7) Hydraulic and Electric Brakes, (H).” Additionally, language was added to address a disconnected service gladhand in “Part II, Item 1. Brake Systems, h. Air Brake Hose/Tubing.”
• Air Brake Hose & Tubing Adjustments: The previous out-of-service condition for crimped hoses and tubing, which restricts airflow, has been removed from “Part II, Item 1.” Brake Systems, h. Air Brake Hose/Tubing, (5).”
• Brake Hose and Line Markings: Language has been introduced to “Part II, Item 1. Brake Systems, h. Air Brake Hose/Tubing” and “Part II, Item 1. Brake Systems, o. Hydraulic Brakes (3)” to address cases where brake hoses or lines are marked for applications other than the specified brake system.
• Tractor Protection System: “Part II, Item 1. Brake Systems, l. Tractor Protection System” now requires both the primary and secondary systems to be below 20 psi, rather than just one.
• Cargo Securement Clarifications: Additional language has been included in “Part II, Item 2. Cargo Securement, a. General Securement” to clarify violations of regulation 392.9(a)(2).
• Lighting Device Updates: A new section has been added specifically for projecting load lamps under “Part II, Item 9. Lighting Devices (Headlamps, Tail Lamps, Stop Lamps, Turn Signals and Lamps/Flags on Projecting Loads), b. At Any Time – Day or Night.”
• Suspension System Adjustments: Clarifications regarding U-bolt bottom plates have been included in “Part II, Item 11. Suspensions, a. Axle Parts/Members (1).” A note and updated diagram have been added to “Part II, Item 11. Suspensions, d. Suspension Connecting Rod and Tracking Component Assembly (2).”
• Tire Regulations: Additional notes have been added to “Part II, Item 12. Tires, a. Any Tire on Any Front Steering Axle(s) of a Power Unit, (8)” and “b. All Tires Other Than Those Found on the Front Steering Axle(s) of a Power Unit (4)” regarding rubber mud flaps.
• Tire Leaks & Automatic Tire Inflation Systems (ATIS): In “Part II, Item 12. Tires, b. All Tires Other Than Those Found on the Front Steering Axle(s) of a Power Unit,” a new out-of-service condition has been introduced for tires without ATIS if a leak is present in the tread area. Meanwhile, leaks in the sidewall are now considered out of service, regardless of whether ATIS is used.
• Radial & Bias Tires Unified: Changes to “Part II, Item 12. Tires, b. All Tires Other Than Those Found on the Front Steering Axle(s) of a Power Unit, (6)-(7), (8)-(9)” eliminate separate out-of-service conditions for radial and bias tires, merging them into a single category.

What This Means for Drivers

These updates have been fully integrated into the North American Standard Inspection Program, impacting training materials, inspection procedures, operational policies, and training videos. Truck drivers should ensure they understand these changes to remain compliant during inspections.

For further details, truckers can contact CVSA Director of Inspection Programs Kerri Wirachowsky by calling 202-998-1650.

The post New CVSA Out-of-Service Criteria Now in Effect appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

What is the International Roadcheck?

The CVSA International Roadcheck is an annual initiative designed to enhance road safety. This large-scale operation involves thousands of commercial vehicles and drivers being inspected at weigh stations, inspection sites, and even through mobile units. These inspections focus on verifying adherence to safety regulations, with results collected and shared publicly during the summer.

Each year, the Roadcheck focuses on specific areas of compliance, and this year, the spotlight is on drivers’ records of duty status (RODS) and vehicle tire safety.

What to Expect During the Inspections

CVSA-certified inspectors will primarily conduct the North American Standard Level I Inspection, a comprehensive 37-step procedure. This process ensures compliance with both drivers’ operational requirements and vehicles’ mechanical standards. Additionally, inspectors may vary their approach depending on circumstances, such as weather, using less stringent Level II or Level III inspections if needed.

Spotlight on Driver Safety

For drivers, inspections will include a thorough review of essential documents and compliance checks. Here are some specific areas inspectors will evaluate:

• Licenses and Certificates: Inspectors will review the validity of your license, commercial driver’s license (CDL), medical examiner’s certificate, and skill performance certificate (if applicable).

• Record of Duty Status (RODS): Your hours of service and compliance with the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse (in the U.S.) will be closely examined.

• Physical Condition: Inspectors will check for proper seat belt use and signs of drug or alcohol impairment.

Violations in these areas may result in the driver being declared out of service until issues are corrected.

Spotlight on Tires and Vehicle Safety

Inspectors will pay close attention to a vehicle’s tires, as proper maintenance is critical to overall safety. Areas of inspection include:

• Tread Depth

• Inflation Levels

• Visible Damage such as bulges, cuts, or sidewall issues

• Air Leaks or Tread Separation

Beyond tires, the Level I Inspection also evaluates a vehicle’s brake systems, lights, windshield wipers, coupling devices, cargo securement, and more. Additional checks for passenger-carrying vehicles include emergency exits, seat conditions, and electrical systems.

What Happens After an Inspection?

Vehicles that pass Level I or V Inspections without any serious safety violations earn a CVSA decal, valid for three months.

However, if serious violations are discovered, fleet operators and drivers must address these issues before the vehicle can return to service. These violations are classified within the North American Standard Out-of-Service Criteria and must be corrected immediately.

Alternate Inspection Levels

When weather or other conditions make full inspections challenging, inspectors may conduct a Level II Walk-Around or Level III Driver Credential and Administrative Inspection instead. Note, however, that only Level I and V inspections qualify for a CVSA decal.

Source: Truckers News

Image: CVSA

The post Save the Date for CVSA’s 2025 International Roadcheck Event – May 13-15 appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.