How to Prepare for the CVSA International Roadcheck 2021

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) is holding the 2021 International Roadcheck for May 4th – May 6th. During these next three days, DOT inspectors will be stopping motor vehicles throughout the United States, Mexico, and Canada. This inspection is not to slow drivers down but instead to be proactive and ensure the safety of all drivers and trucks.

These inspections may be a little intimidating to new owner-operators. But these checks occur each year and are no different they any other inspection you may encounter during the rest of the year. The only difference between the regular inspection and the International Roadcheck has many inspectors out on the road are collecting data for violations. Whether you are a senior driver or a new owner-operator, you must be prepared and perform a pre-trip inspection before hitting the road.

CVSA Roadcheck Focus for 2021

Each year, the CVSA focuses on the International Roadcheck – and this year, the focus will be hours of service and lighting. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) noted that these were the two main violations during the 2020 inspection. Below are some things to ensure you are ready to get on the road and avoid any roadside violations:

Watch Your Hours of Service

When you are out on the road, you must ensure that you stay compliant with your hours of service by using your Electronic Logging Device (ELD). Your ELD will help keep track of your hours and can easily provide this report to any law enforcement officer when requested. Using your ELD can get you back on the road faster and reduce any violations.

Take Care of Any Maintenance Issues

Before hitting the road, it is best to ensure your truck is running its best. Preventive maintenance on all power units and trailers can help give you peace of mind when being stopped for an inspection. Some things you should check before getting out on the road include:

  • Exhaust systems

  • Frames

  • Fuel systems

  • Lightening devices

  • Steering mechanisms

  • Suspension

  • Tires

  • Windshield wipers

  • Van and open-top trailer bodies

  • Emergency exits

  • Electrical cables/systems in the engine and battery

  • Seating

Driver Documents

You must have all your documents in order before hitting the road. Inspectors can request to see different documents. If you do not have these readily available, you will receive a violation. Depending on the severity of the violation, you can receive an out-of-service sticker. This will put you off the road until you can provide these documents. Main documents that you should have on hand include:

  • Valid driver’s license and/or CDL

  • Medical Examiner’s Certificate

  • Skill Performance Evaluation Certificate

  • Driver’s record of duty status

  • Hours of service log

  • Prior vehicle inspections

  • Bills of landing if you are loaded

Safety and being compliant is not just solely the job of the driver. Still, it takes the whole fleet and organization. To prevent violations and out-of-service stickers, it is important to complete a pre-trip inspection before hitting the road. Drivers should pay close attention to the CVSA’s main focus and other parts of their truck that may be faulty. Completing a daily pre-trip inspection helps ensure you continue to run smoothly and get you back on the road quickly.

CVSA International Roadcheck Inspection 2021

CVSA International Roadcheck Inspection 2021

The 2021 International Roadcheck inspection for commercial motor vehicles is quickly approaching. This year, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) will hold its annual Roadcheck inspection from May 4th – May 6th, 2021. Each year the CVSA inspections have a direct focus. This year, the focus will be vehicle lighting and hours-of-service compliance.

The CVSA will have inspectors across North America to organize inspections on commercial motor vehicles. Inspectors will also ensure that drivers follow their vehicle maintenance and driver readiness standards that go in line with the annual inspection program.

Before hitting the road, ensure you check your hours-of-service documentation and ensure all lighting is properly working.

Inspectors Will Also Conduct a North American Standard Level I Inspection

The CVSA inspection will also include the North American Standard Level I Inspection along with checking hours-of-service and vehicle lighting. The North American Standard Level I Inspection includes checking the following:

  • Brakes

  • Fuel systems

  • Cargo securement

  • Seat belts

  • Steering mechanisms

  • Tires

  • And more

COVID-19 Protocols Will Stay in Place

Many may wonder how inspectors will keep themselves and drivers safe while performing these inspections. The CVSA inspectors and law enforcement understand we are still in a Global Pandemic and will follow all COVID-19 safety protocols. The CVSA also understands the importance of transporting COVID-19 vaccinations. In this case, drivers transporting the COVID-19 vaccine will not be held up for inspection unless the inspector notices an obvious and serious violation that could cause danger to the driver or others on the road.

Are You Ready?

Not only should your vehicle be ready in case you are stopped for an inspection, but it is advised that this checklist be done before hitting the road each time. By following this checklist, you not only keep yourself safe but others on the road. Also, this can help limit downtime on the road.

  • Do a complete walk-around your truck – By doing so, you are making yourself aware of any damages or anything that could be out of place. While walking around your truck, check any brackets, doors, windows, and weather stripping.

  • Check all running lights – This can include lights, lenses, and headlights to ensure no cracking or fogging could impair your vision.

  • Check the engine compartment – When checking the engine compartment, check the water pump, radiator, air compressor pump, and power steering pump to ensure there are no cracks and nothing is damaged.

  • Check all tires – If you notice low pressure, be sure to air up the tire before hitting the road. Also, inspect the tire for any cracks, lumps, nails, or abrasions.

  • Check the brake system – ensure your brake pads and drums are in proper working order.

  • Inspect the inside of your truck – this will include the windshield, mirrors, defroster, wipers, hazard lights, turn signals, and gauges.

  • Test the truck's horn – Be sure the horn is in good working order in the case of an emergency.

The CVSA International Roadcheck is just right around the corner. Now is the time to do a full inspection of your truck to ensure you will not receive any violations. Continue checking back for updated tips for the CVSA International Roadcheck.

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