Operation Safe Driver Week—an annual campaign conducted by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA)—will take place July 11-17. Operation Safe Driver Week is an annual, seven-day initiative created by the CVSA to help detect and prevent unsafe behaviors on the road among commercial drivers. During this weeklong campaign, law enforcement agencies throughout North America participate in increased traffic safety enforcement—focusing on risky behaviors like reckless or aggressive driving, distracted driving, tailgating, improper lane changes, failure to obey traffic control devices, failure to use seat belts, and evidence of drunk or drugged driving,
Each year, the CVSA identifies a specific topic to focus on during Operation Safe Driver Week. This year’s campaign is focused on speeding due to the recent spike in average speeds on roadways across the United States. Despite a decrease in roadway travel last year due to COVID-19, traffic fatalities increased nationally. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), there was a 24% increase in the estimated rate of fatalities on the roads last year compared to the previous 12-month period, even though miles driven dropped 13%. This increase in fatalities is the highest the NSC has seen in the last 96 years in its year-over-year review.
Motor carriers must prepare for Operation Safe Driver Week by educating their employees on safe driving behaviors and enforcing commercial driver regulatory compliance throughout their organizations. Here are some simple reminders that motor carriers can share with their drivers in preparation for Operation Safe Driver Week:
- Follow all traffic laws.
- Wear your seat belt at all times.
- Obey all posted speed limits.
- Never use your cellphone while driving.
- Never drive while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
- Practice safe driving habits at all times.
For additional industry-specific guidance and resources, contact us today.
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