CVSA BRAKE SAFETY WEEK: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

The safe-driving initiative returns August 23-29, 2026, giving fleets, owner-operators and drivers another opportunity to prioritize brake maintenance and keep commercial vehicles operating safely.

This program is a long-running effort focused on keeping commercial vehicles safer across North America.

It brings attention to the importance of well-maintained brakes through inspections, driver education and awareness, while also collecting insights that help make our roads safer for everyone who uses them.

Brake-related violations continue to represent the largest category of vehicle out-of-service violations during roadside inspections.

According to CVSA data:

• Six of the top 20 vehicle violations are brake related.
• During last year's CVSA International Roadcheck, 23% of all vehicle out-of-service violations involved brake systems.
• Out-of-adjustment brakes and brake-system violations account for nearly half of all out-of-service violations issued to commercial vehicles.

Properly maintained brakes help preserve stopping distance and braking performance, improving safety for drivers and everyone sharing the road.

Certified inspectors will perform routine inspections focused on brake systems and components, with particular attention given to:

• Brake Drums
• Brake Rotors
• Brake Adjustment
• Brake-System Components
• Overall Brake Condition and Performance

Addressing wear and maintenance concerns before inspection week arrives can help minimize downtime and keep operations running smoothly.

CVSA Brake Safety Week is ultimately about one thing: promoting safer roads for everyone. By focusing on brake maintenance and addressing issues early, fleets and owner-operators can approach inspection week with confidence and continue doing what they do best; keeping goods moving across North America.

A little preparation today can go a long way toward helping ensure a safe, productive and successful week so read this checklist.