2024 International Roadcheck Results: Key Insights on Vehicle and Driver Compliance

The 2024 International Roadcheck, conducted over three days from May 14-16, produced eye-opening results that offer an in-depth look into vehicle and driver compliance in the commercial trucking industry. This annual event, organized by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA), saw the participation of law enforcement agencies across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, all working together to ensure commercial vehicles meet safety standards. This year’s focus was on brake system and hours-of-service violations, two critical areas affecting both road safety and driver performance.

The Scope of the 2024 International Roadcheck

Over the course of the event, more than 48,000 commercial vehicle inspections were conducted, with results that underscore the need for ongoing attention to vehicle maintenance and regulatory compliance. As in previous years, the inspections were conducted at fixed sites, weigh stations, and designated inspection areas, as well as during mobile patrols.

Of all the inspections performed, about 23% of vehicles and 4.8% of drivers were placed out of service for various violations. While this percentage may seem alarming, it aligns with similar trends from previous years, underscoring the recurring challenges within the trucking industry, especially in the areas of vehicle maintenance and driver compliance with hours-of-service (HOS) regulations.

Top Violations Leading to Out-of-Service Orders

The results of the 2024 Roadcheck revealed some telling statistics. Among the vehicles inspected in the United States, 7,930 vehicles were placed out of service. The top violations included:

• Brake Systems: Accounting for over 26% of out-of-service orders, brake system defects continue to be a leading cause of safety concerns. Brake violations, such as worn pads, cracked drums, or misaligned systems, pose a significant danger on the road. In many cases, these violations are preventable through routine maintenance checks, highlighting the importance of regular vehicle inspections.
• Tire and Wheel Violations: Tires were the second most common reason vehicles were placed out of service. With defects ranging from tread depth issues to improper inflation and damaged sidewalls, tire-related problems accounted for a considerable portion of the violations.
• Lighting Devices: Properly functioning lighting systems are critical for visibility and signaling on the road. During the inspections, lighting defects such as broken or non-functioning headlights, taillights, and turn signals were frequently cited, contributing to a large number of out-of-service orders.
• Cargo Securement: Cargo securement violations were another key issue, involving improperly secured loads that risked shifting or falling, posing hazards to other road users. Ensuring that all cargo is adequately secured is a basic yet essential requirement for any commercial vehicle operator.

Driver Compliance Issues

Although vehicle defects garnered significant attention, driver-related violations also played a pivotal role in this year’s Roadcheck results. A total of 4.8% of drivers inspected were placed out of service, and the primary reasons included hours-of-service (HOS) violations and issues related to improper documentation.

• Hours-of-Service (HOS) Violations: HOS compliance remains one of the most critical issues within the trucking industry, with violations often stemming from drivers exceeding the legally allowed driving time. Overworked and fatigued drivers are more prone to accidents, making HOS adherence vital for road safety.
• Driver Qualification Issues: Improper documentation, such as expired licenses, medical certificates, or missing records, also led to out-of-service orders. Ensuring that drivers maintain up-to-date paperwork is a relatively simple yet often overlooked step that can prevent out-of-service orders and costly delays.

International Participation and Comparison

This year’s Roadcheck also saw extensive participation from Canada and Mexico, adding an international layer to the inspection effort. While each country faces its own unique regulatory challenges, the focus on brake systems, tires, and lighting defects remained consistent across borders.

In Canada, the out-of-service rates were slightly lower, reflecting the region’s ongoing commitment to stringent vehicle safety standards. However, similar issues with brake systems and cargo securement were prevalent. Mexico, on the other hand, showed a greater focus on improving driver compliance and vehicle maintenance, with a particular emphasis on addressing cross-border transportation challenges.

The Importance of Regular Maintenance and Training

The 2024 Roadcheck results point to the ongoing need for regular vehicle maintenance and driver training. Many of the violations that resulted in out-of-service orders could have been avoided through proactive vehicle inspections and routine upkeep. For drivers, staying compliant with HOS regulations and ensuring proper documentation can make a significant difference in avoiding out-of-service orders.

CVSA President Maj. Chris Nordloh emphasized that these inspections are critical in identifying and removing unsafe vehicles and drivers from the road. He highlighted that the success of the International Roadcheck lies not only in enforcement but also in educating drivers and carriers about the importance of compliance.

“Routine maintenance and attention to detail are key to preventing these violations,” Nordloh said. “By taking the time to address issues before they become larger problems, carriers can improve safety outcomes for everyone on the road.”

Looking Ahead: Improving Compliance in the Trucking Industry

As the commercial trucking industry continues to evolve, ensuring compliance with vehicle safety standards and hours-of-service regulations will remain a priority. Initiatives like the International Roadcheck play a crucial role in maintaining road safety and fostering a culture of accountability among carriers and drivers.

The data gathered from these inspections will be used to inform future policy decisions and regulatory changes. For carriers, the takeaway is clear: investing in regular maintenance and driver education is not just about avoiding fines or out-of-service orders—it’s about ensuring the safety of all road users.

In summary, the 2024 International Roadcheck results highlight the importance of ongoing efforts to improve vehicle safety and driver compliance in the commercial trucking industry. With nearly one in four vehicles inspected being placed out of service, it’s evident that there is still work to be done to ensure the highest standards of safety on the road.

Conclusion: A Call to Action for Trucking Companies and Drivers

The results of the 2024 International Roadcheck serve as a reminder that safety and compliance are paramount in the trucking industry. Carriers and drivers must take proactive steps to maintain their vehicles and follow regulations, ensuring the safety of themselves and others on the road. By focusing on regular maintenance, proper cargo securement, and adherence to hours-of-service rules, the industry can reduce violations and enhance overall road safety.