DRIVERS are being warned they could be slapped with fines of up to $2,500 and have their cars seized on the spot as police launch a nationwide crackdown on dodgy motors.
Cops across the US, Canada and Mexico are set to launch a massive week-long crackdown on dodgy lorries and HGVs.
From August 24 to 30, thousands of commercial motors will be pulled over as part of Brake Safety Week — with inspectors zeroing in on faulty systems, cracked drums and worn-out rotors that could spell disaster on the roads.
Any truck found with dangerous defects will be slapped with an instant ban and taken off the highway until fixed.
Officials warn bits of broken brake parts can fly off and smash into other cars, risking injuries or even death.
As well as hands-on checks, some states will use high-tech brake testers to spot underperforming vehicles.
The data will feed into the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s report later this year, shining a light on just how many rigs are running with bad brakes.
The blitz isn’t just about busting drivers — inspectors will also hand out safety advice and resources to truckers, mechanics and fleet bosses in a bid to cut crashes and save lives.
Top tips
Maintaining your brakes isn’t just about ticking boxes – it’s crucial for your safety on the road.
Each year, the CVSA picks a focus area for inspections, so it pays to know what inspectors are watching.
Inspectors Check:
- Fluid leaks in the braking system
- Cracks, corrosion, or wear on brake components
- Brake lining thickness and even wear across axles
See the eight brake drum and rotor tips for drivers and operators to avoid violations.
Every trip should start with a detailed pre-trip inspection to catch small issues before they turn into costly violations – or worse, accidents.
Also, always have your documents on hand.
Be sure to carry:
- Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIRs)
- Brake repair history and maintenance logs
- Driver certifications, medical cards, and hours-of-service records
Don’t skip regular check-ups.
Routine maintenance not only keeps your vehicle safe, it saves money in the long run by avoiding unexpected repairs or hefty fines.
What is reckless driving?
Laws across the country are cracking down on careless drivers who endanger other people on the road. Here are some behaviors that are considered reckless driving:
- Speeding
- Street racing
- Aggressive driving/road rage
- Tailgating
- Driving under the influence
- Using a phone while driving
- Running red lights
- Inattentive driving
- Improperly changing lanes
- Not signaling
- Carrying too many passengers
- Weaving in and out of traffic
Results this year so far
April’s blitz proved just how vital the checks are.
Out of 4,569 trucks pulled over in a single day, a whopping 91.3% passed with no brake issues.
But shockingly, nearly 400 rigs (8.7%) had such dangerous faults they were slapped with an instant ban and taken off the road on the spot.
What if I’m charged?
If you’re facing charges, your lawyer may ask where you were driving and whether you knew your brakes were faulty.
Your driving history could also play a role in building your case.
Be prepared before heading to court for reckless driving.
If you’ve received more than a speeding ticket, it’s crucial to take the charges seriously and prepare your case carefully.
In Virginia, it’s a crime to drive a vehicle that isn’t under control or has “inadequate or improperly adjusted brakes” on any public highway.
Classified as reckless driving, this offense is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Penalties can include up to 12 months in jail and fines of up to $2,500.
A conviction also leaves a permanent criminal record, which can carry further consequences.
New September driving laws and rules
- Starting September 14, new speed cameras will be turned on in Florida and threaten with $100 fees
- On September 1, drivers in South Carolina will have to watch where they put their hands under a new hands-free law
- Also, on September 1, certain vehicles operating in Texas will have to get a special permit
- More drivers will be forced to get dozens of hours of training before getting their license under a new law
- And drivers have until September 30 to collect a $7,500 tax credit
