Seasoned truckers know that the Commercial Safety Vehicle Alliance is the driving force behind safety in trucking. The CVSA has deemed July 9-15 as Operation Safe Driver Week to promote its mission to keep truckers safe.
What is Operation Safe Driver Week?
Operation Safe Driver Week is an annual effort to raise awareness for safe-driving habits. During Operation Safe Driver Week, law enforcement will look for unsafe driving behaviors and issue citations to offending drivers.
In 2023, Operation Safe Driver Week will place its focus on speeding.
How Many Drivers Are Affected by Operation Safe Driver Week?
Truckers across the US and Canada will be subject to increased traffic stops related to unsafe driving.
In 2022, over 35,000 commercial motor vehicles were stopped as part of Operation Safe Driver Week. Of those pulled over, 26,164 warnings and citations were administered.
What Qualifies as ‘Unsafe Behavior’?
Unsafe driving behavior includes any behavior that is reckless or dangerous in nature. Specific examples include:
- Speeding
- Passing or turning errors
- Poor lane changes
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Using a phone while driving
- Not wearing a seat belt
- Etc.
The Facts
Unsafe driving behaviors are a leading source of fatalities in the United States and Canada. For perspective,
- Speeding is responsible for more than 25% of traffic fatalities
- Speeding is the most common cause of crashes in commercial vehicles
- Speeding kills 25 motorists a day on average
- Distracted driving claimed more than 3,000 lives in 2019
- Nearly 50% of traffic-related deaths involve an individual not wearing a seat belt
- Every 52 minutes, a driver loses their life due to drunk driving
What Can Truckers Do to Prevent Being Stopped?
Like you would every other day, practice vigilant safety when hauling during Operation Safe Driver Week. Buckle your seat belt, use your blinker, keep your eyes on the road, and be aware of your surroundings while driving.
Though these tips seem intuitive, Operation Safe Driver Week can be the perfect opportunity to reevaluate your driving habits. Everyone slips up from time to time, but renewing your commitment to safety can save lives.
Be safe out there, truckers!
—
The England Carrier Services (ECS) division offers various services for carriers ranging from maintenance to support. As ECS members, carriers have access to nationwide discounts on fuel and tires from dedicated team members committed to finding the best price. ECS also provides factoring services with benefits such as same-day funding to a bank account or fuel card. These options allow carriers the freedom to focus on growing their business while saving time and money.