Every year, over 2,000 carriers come to a screeching stop—and we do mean a screeching stop—as inspectors pull worn brakes from off the road in CVSA’s annual Brake Safety Week.
Unlike the International Roadcheck and Operation Safe Driver Week, Brake Safety Week is not required to be announced, often catching some carriers off guard. This year, we know exactly when the initiative is taking place… and it’s right around the corner.
To save you from becoming part of the 15% of out-of-service violations related to this initiative, here’s everything you need to know to be ready for CVSA Brake Safety Week 2026.
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When is CVSA Brake Safety Week 2026?
CVSA Brake Safety Week 2026 will take place August 23 – 29.
Throughout the weeklong initiative, inspectors will be conducting impromptu evaluations of brake health across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
What is the Emphasis of the 2026 CVSA Brake Safety Week?
In 2026, inspectors will pay special attention to the health of brake drums and air disc brake rotors. Additionally, Level IV inspections will be administered.
Straight from the CVSA’s website, inspectors will be placing scrutiny on the following areas:
- Inspect visible portions of the drum or rotor as part of your pre- and post-trip inspections.
- Look for signs of cracked or broken pieces in the friction surface of the rotor.
- Look for cracks that run through to the outer portion of the drum or missing pieces, where visible.
- On disc brakes, pay attention to the condition of the rotor. Heavily rusted rotors across the entire friction surface indicate an inoperative brake.
- If the rotor is grooved, indicating metal-to-metal contact, that means the brake pads are worn, and the shoe is making contact with the rotor.
- Ensure the rotor is not worn to the extent that the center vents are exposed.
- Make sure all repairs are consistent with the brake manufacturer’s requirements and guidelines.
- Note any issues in your driver vehicle inspection reports and report them to the motor carrier.
Image and criteria courtesy of the CVSA.
How to Prepare for CVSA Brake Safety Week 2026
To ensure you are adequately prepared for CVSA Brake Safety Week 2026, take these steps before setting out:
- Perform routine preventive maintenance, with a focus on brake pad and air disk brake health.
- Inspect drums and rotors closely. If there is any sign of wear, consider immediate repairs.
- Prepare for a roadside stop. Ensure your paperwork is in order in the event of a spontaneous stop.
What Else is Being Inspected?
Although brakes are the primary focus of the inspection, inspectors may also evaluate tire condition.
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The 2026 CVSA Brake Safety Week is an effective initiative for enforcing brake safety, but for unprepared carriers, it can result in substantial costs if carriers are placed out of service.
To avoid hold-ups, be prepared, anticipate an inspection, and don new trailer tires.
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