If you feel like all your local law enforcement seem to be hitting the road at once in mid-July, it’s not a coordinated police vacation: It’s Operation Safe Driver Week.
The CVSA’s annual “Operation Safe Driver Week” is just around the corner, bringing a renewed emphasis on driver safety and an increase in roadside scrutiny. Despite the initiative reducing sketchy driving, some carriers may be caught off guard by the increase in officer-driver engagement.
Here’s everything you need to know about Operation Safe Driver Week.
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What is Operation Safe Driver Week?
Since 2007, the CVSA has enacted Operation Safe Driver Week as a companion to the CVSA Roadcheck. While the Roadcheck emphasizes equipment compliance, Operation Safe Driver Week encourages better driver behavior.
In 2026, Operation Safe Driver Week will be held July 12 – 18.
Operation Save Driver Week seeks to curb a massive, disturbing problem: 94% of all traffic crashes are attributable to driver behavior. By increasing driver and officer engagement, the CVSA hopes to taper reckless driving throughout the week.
What is the Emphasis of Operation Safe Driver Week 2026
In 2026, officers will place an especial emphasis on these risky behaviors during Operation Safe Driver Week:
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Following too closely
- Failure to wear a seatbelt
- Unsafe lane changes
- Fatigued or drowsy driving
- Impaired driving
- Disregarding traffic signals
In 2025, over 1564 citations and warnings were administered for speeding alone.
Why It Matters and How to Prepare
A citation given during Operation Safe Drive Week can be a major ding to your CSA score.
A healthy CSA score plays a key role in determining your insurance premiums, your standing with the FMCSA, and your appeal to shippers and brokers.
To prepare for Operation Safe Driver Week, it’s vital to keep a few things in mind:
- Abide by the speed limit. Not only is this your basic obligation as a motorist, but it can also lower your fuel bill by hundreds of dollars.
- Put the phone away. Your life is worth more than a delayed reply. Silence your phone when on the road.
- Buckle up every time. These are the most cost-effective and life-saving three seconds of your day.
- Manage your stopping distance. Federal regulations require a minimum following distance of 3 seconds, but for a semi-truck, stopping takes even longer.
- Don’t drive drowsy. Fatigued driving is impaired driving. Get adequate rest before setting out—your eyelids and fellow drivers will thank you.
Prepare Your Equipment
A brief traffic stop can quickly evolve into a full roadside inspection if your equipment looks shabby.
FMCSA officers often look to tires first. Before you set out for Operation Safe Driver Week, replace your tires for the best chance of a seamless stop.
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The 2026 Operation Safe Driver Week aims to deter reckless driving. While the CVSA works to curb dangerous behavior, carriers must stay moving.
This July 12 – 18 and always, drive safely, truckers.