Annual ‘Roadcheck’ to focus on CMV steering, suspension systems

Greenbelt, MD — Inspectors across North America will examine braking systems, lights, tires and other components on commercial trucks and buses June 4-6 during the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s annual International Roadcheck.

This year’s 72-hour enforcement and safety outreach event will place special emphasis on steering and suspension systems.

“Steering and suspension are safety critical systems for any commercial motor vehicle,” CVSA President Jay Thompson said in a March 25 press release. “Not only do they support the heavy loads carried by trucks and buses, but they also help maintain stability and control under acceleration and braking, keeping the vehicle safely on the road.

“Furthermore, they keep tires in alignment, reducing chances of uneven tire wear and possible tire failure, and they maximize the contact between the tires and the road to provide steering stability and good handling.”

Last year’s event resulted in 67,603 inspections, which identified 11,910 vehicles and 2,666 drivers with out-of-service conditions.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration participates in the Roadcheck, along with the Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators, Transport Canada, and the Ministry of Communications and Transportation in Mexico.