Truck drivers in Florida may be familiar with Brake Safety Week, the roadside brake inspection spree held every year by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance. The CVSA has scheduled the 2020 event for August 23 to 29, so truckers should make sure beforehand that their brake system is up to specifications.

It goes without saying that bad brakes increase the risk for an accident. However, inspectors will be focusing especially on the brake hoses and tubing because if these are damaged, leaking, inflexible or not attached properly, they will affect the entire brake system. Those rigs that commit brake violations will be placed out-of-service.

Brake Safety Week in 2019 resulted in 13.5% of all inspected trucks being issued OOS orders. Even more startling is what happened during the CVSA’s 2019 International Roadcheck. During this other inspection spree, 45.1% of all OOS violations were related to the brake system and adjustment.

Truckers most likely understand that some fleets are more safety-minded than others. If they are wondering what fleets are the best in terms of safety practices, equipment and benefits, they could look into the results of the annual “Best Fleets to Drive For” contest. They may even participate in 2020’s contest. The contest is held by the Truckload Carriers Association.

If truck collisions are caused by the negligence of a truck driver, then the trucking company may find itself facing a claim from the victims. If the driver is an independent owner-operator, a claim could be filed against that driver’s insurance provider. Whatever their situation is like, victims may want a lawyer to help with the claim while they focus on recovering. Crash investigators and medical experts may come in to gather proof against the defendant and determine the extent of injuries. The lawyer may handle negotiations.

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