For more information, contact:
Lieutenant Patricia Hansen, DSP/Motor Carrier Enforcement
(608) 266-0094, Patricia.Hansen@dot.wi.gov
Intensified commercial motor vehicle enforcement begins Sunday, Sept. 11
Using rigorous law enforcement and effective traffic safety education, the Wisconsin State Patrol, in partnership with county and municipal agencies trained in commercial motor vehicle inspections, will strive to prevent large-truck crashes by participating in “Operation Air Brake/Brake Safety Week,” sponsored by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA), from Sunday, Sept. 11 to Saturday, Sept. 17.
The Wisconsin State Patrol and other law enforcement agencies throughout North America will intensify their inspection efforts during the week to identify faulty braking systems on large trucks and other commercial motor vehicles.
In addition to examining braking systems, State Patrol inspectors will also educate drivers, mechanics and commercial motor vehicle companies about the importance of checking brakes routinely and properly maintaining them.
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. Even in 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.
Combining rigorous law enforcement with effective safety education has helped improve commercial motor vehicle safety in Wisconsin during the last 10 years. In 2010, large truck crashes declined approximately 36 percent compared with 2000. Moreover, large-truck crash fatalities dropped from 112 in 2000 to 56 in 2010, which was a 50 percent reduction.
