Operation Safe Driver Week—an annual campaign conducted by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA)—will take place from July 12-18. This year’s focus will be on speeding.
The Purpose of Operation Safe Driver Week
Operation Safe Driver Week is an annual, seven-day initiative created by the CVSA to help detect and prevent unsafe behaviors on the road among commercial drivers.
During this week-long campaign, law enforcement agencies throughout North America typically participate in increased traffic safety enforcement—focusing on topics such as wearing seat belts, avoiding distracted driving risks, conducting roadside inspections and maintaining commercial driver regulatory compliance. As usual, drivers found in violation of any safety regulations could be issued a warning or citation.
Apart from heightened traffic safety enforcement, Operation Safe Driver Week also calls for increased education and awareness of safe driving practices. Law enforcement agencies, transportation safety officials and motor carriers are encouraged to take this time to provide commercial drivers with valuable resources on safe driving behaviors.
2020 Campaign Focus
Each year, the CVSA identifies a specific topic to focus on during Operation Safe Driver Week. This year’s campaign is focused on speeding.
The CVSA’s reasoning for selecting this topic is due to the recent spike in average speeds on roadways across the United States. In fact, recent data found that the average speeds on interstate highways, state highways and expressways within five of the country’s largest metropolitan areas increased by as much as 75% between the months of January and April this year.
Such a spike is likely linked to a decrease in the number of vehicles on the road in the midst of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, according to the Governors Highway Safety Association. In other words, less traffic might be encouraging commercial drivers to disregard important safety regulations, including speed limits.
What Motor Carriers Can Do
It’s crucial for motor carriers to prepare for Operation Safe Driver Week by educating their employees on safe driving behaviors and enforcing commercial driver regulatory compliance throughout their organization.
Here are some simple reminders that motor carriers can share with their drivers in preparation for Operation Safe Driver Week:
- Follow all traffic laws.
- Wear your seat belt at all times.
- Obey all posted speed limits.
- Never use your cellphone while driving.
- Avoid driving when impaired by alcohol or drugs.
- Practice safe driving habits at all times.
Be Sure your team is prepared. Download The Motor Carrier’s Guide to Roadside Inspections, a 27-page overview with guidance on preparation and best practices.
For additional industry-specific guidance and resources, contact us today.
