Every year, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance holds a 72-hour inspection spree of commercial motor vehicles called the International Roadcheck. Truckers in Louisiana should know that the 2020 roadcheck is set to take place from May 5 to 7, during which time they may be stopped at random for an inspection.
Most International Roadchecks take place the first week of June, but the CVSA says it has bumped up the date for this year because the weather will likely be more favorable for some jurisdictions in May. Most inspections will be Level I inspections: the most thorough of the eight North American Standard inspections established by the Department of Transportation.
Level I inspections are 37-point inspections that cover, on the vehicle’s side, things like the braking system, fuel system, tires, steering, suspension, exhaust systems and lights. Law enforcement will also be checking for proper cargo securement. The special focus of the 2020 roadcheck is on driver requirements. Drivers must, for example, carry a CDL, medical cards if applicable and records of duty status.
Over 12,000 trucks and 2,700 drivers were placed out of service during the 2019 roadcheck. The most commonly cited violations were the breaking of hours-of-service regulations and the carrying of the wrong class license.
The purpose of the roadcheck is to ensure that truckers are safe and responsible behind the wheel. When trucks are involved in motor vehicle crashes, the injuries tend to be more serious and even catastrophic. Fortunately, those injured at the hands of a clearly negligent truck driver can be eligible for compensation under personal injury law. Victims may hire a lawyer to assist in filing their claim against the trucking company and negotiating for a fair settlement.