The annual CVSA Brake Safety Week is approaching quickly, August 24 – 30. Here’s what you need to know to be prepared.

CVSA Brake Safety Week 2025: What You Need to Know

Posted & filed under Carrier Connection.

The CVSA Brake Safety Week saves lives… but it can get you sidelined if you’re not careful.

The annual CVSA Brake Safety Week is approaching quickly, August 24 – 30. Following a surprise Brake Safety Day in April, inspectors sidelined nearly 9% of all carriers inspected, while 25% were cited with violations.

Here’s what you need to know to be prepared.

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      CVSA Brake Safety Week 2025 Emphasis

      The additional inspections may be frustrating to some, but they come for a good reason: 30% of all commercial truck accidents result from brake failures. Ultimately, inspectors are trying to save lives.

      To promote safety, this year’s Brake Safety Week will emphasize brake drum and rotor health.

      Inspectors will be looking for the following:

      Brake Drums

      • Cracks or visible damage
      • Missing or busted pieces
      • Holes from damage or rust penetration
      • Cracking from heat damage

       

      Brake Rotors

      • Damage to friction surfaces
      • Prevalent rust across friction surfaces
      • Grooves indicating metal-on-metal contact
      • Exposed vents indicating wear

      Although drums and rotors will constitute most of the inspection, inspectors will also be evaluating the condition of the following:

      • Brake hose and tubing issues
      • Steering axle brake violations
      • Air loss tests
      • Worn brake lines
      • Inoperable tractor protection systems
      • Low-air warning device failures

       

      Pre-Trip Checklist

      To prepare for the annual Brake Safety Week, the CVSA recommends conducting a pre-trip inspection for your safety and compliance:

      • Visually inspect drums and rotors for any visible damage.
      • Assess friction surfaces for cracks or missing pieces.
      • Evaluate friction surfaces for heavy rusting.
      • Check for deep grooves that appear when metal-to-metal contact occurs.
      • Ensure center vents are not exposed.
      • Review manufacturer specifications to promote compliance.

      Proper brake safety saves time, money, and lives. Though the Brake Safety Week can be cumbersome, it is a valuable opportunity to review your brakes’ health and stay safe on the road.

       

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