WisDOT: ‘Operation Air Brake/Brake Safety Week’ strives to prevent large-truck crashes

For more information, contact:

Capt. Charles Lorentz, Wisconsin State Patrol

(608) 266-0305, charles.lorentz@dot.wi.gov

Intensified commercial motor vehicle enforcement begins Sunday, Sept. 12

To prevent large-truck crashes through rigorous law enforcement and effective traffic safety education, the Wisconsin State Patrol will participate in “Operation Air Brake/Brake Safety Week” sponsored by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) from Sunday, Sept. 12 to Saturday, Sept. 18.

The Wisconsin State Patrol and other law enforcement agencies throughout North America will intensify their inspection efforts during “Operation Air Brake/Brake Safety Week” to reduce the number of crashes caused by faulty braking systems on large trucks and other commercial motor vehicles.

According to CVSA, out of adjustment air brakes and brake system defects are the major reason for commercial motor vehicles being placed out of service. Under ideal conditions, the braking distance for commercial motor vehicles is twice as far as that for most cars and other smaller vehicles. Poorly adjusted or defective brakes increase the risk to the operator and occupants of the commercial motor vehicle as well as all other motorists on the road. During “Operation Air Brake/Brake Safety Week,” inspectors will examine braking systems and will also educate drivers, mechanics and commercial motor vehicle companies about the importance of proper brake inspection and maintenance.

A combination of rigorous law enforcement and effective education has helped improve commercial motor vehicle safety in Wisconsin. In 2009, large-truck crashes declined approximately 21 percent compared with 2008. In addition, large-truck crash fatalities declined nearly 12 percent, and serious injuries went down by more than 26 percent.