The critical importance of brake safety in commercial vehicles is the focus of Brake Safety Week, a nationwide campaign September 6-12.

The weeklong campaign provides the California Highway Patrol  an opportunity to educate drivers, mechanics, and others on the importance of proper brake inspection and maintenance. The CHP’s 51 Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Facilities (CVEF), located throughout the state, will participate with enforcement or educational activities. Educational events, such as information booths at rest areas and truck stops, are valuable ways for the CHP to enhance commercial vehicle safety.

“Whether you are behind the wheel of a big rig, city bus, or family car, safe and reliable brakes are fundamental to protecting everyone on our roads,” CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow said. “The ultimate goal of the Brake Safety Week campaign is to reduce the annual number of highway collisions caused by faulty braking systems on commercial vehicles and improve brake safety throughout California year-round.”

More than 1,000 CHP employees are dedicated to commercial vehicle enforcement. The CHP conducts an average of 500,000 commercial vehicle inspections each year. The inspections, conducted both on highway and off by the CHP, help ensure commercial vehicle owners and operators comply with state laws.

During Brake Safety Week last year, 9,989 vehicles were inspected and 1,514 were taken out of service. Brake-related violations are the most frequent reason for commercial vehicles to be taken out of service during roadside inspections by the CHP.