The CVSA’s program, Operation Safe Driver is held every year in partnership with the FMCSA, state, provincial and local law enforcement. Its objective is to reduce the number of deaths and injuries from crashes involving large trucks, buses and cars. Enforcement activities are held throughout Canada, the US and Mexico during the week long blitz that occurs each year in October.
This year, Operation Safe Driver is happening from Sunday, October 18th to Saturday, October 24th. In particular, enforcement officials will be increasing commercial vehicle and non-commercial vehicle traffic enforcement, safety belt enforcement, driver roadside inspections and driver regulatory compliance. Education will also feature widely in next week’s blitz, with awareness and safety programs being featured.
Here are some statistics from last year’s Operation Safe Driver Week:
- Law enforcement officers pulled over 59,080 commercial vehicle drivers & car drivers for unsafe driving
- 4,337 law enforcement officials were present at over 1,549 locations across the US and Canada
- Top 5 warnings & citations issued to CMV drivers:
- Speeding
- Failure to use a seat belt
- Failure to obey traffic control devices
- Improper lane changes
- Following too closely
- Top 5 warnings & citations issued to car drivers:
- Speeding
- Failure to use a seat belt
- Failure to obey traffic control devices
- Possession/use/under the influence of alcohol
- Following too closely
Make sure you are prepared for the blitz! Here are some tips from the CVSA for professional drivers:
- Buckle Up!
- Prepare for your drive beforehand: adjust mirrors lights and directions before hitting the road
- Drive safely
- Avoid distractions
- Never text or email while driving
- Don’t multi-task while behind the wheel.
- Be aware of other drivers
- Avoid aggressive driving
- Only make safe and necessary lane changes
- Allow yourself plenty of time
- Don’t tailgate
- Get enough sleep
- Never drive under the influence
For more information on the CVSA’s Operation Safe Driver week, including free material downloads and statistics, visit www.cvsa.org/osd. Safe driving!
