Operation Safe Driver Week—an annual campaign conducted by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA)—will take place from July 7-13, 2024. This year’s focus will be on reckless, careless or dangerous driving.
Review the following guidance for further information on the purpose of Operation Safe Driver Week, this year’s focus and what motor carriers can do to prepare for the upcoming campaign.
The Purpose of Operation Safe Driver Week
Operation Safe Driver Week is an annual seven-day initiative created by the CVSA to help detect and prevent unsafe behaviors on the road among commercial drivers.
During this weeklong campaign, law enforcement agencies throughout North America typically participate in increased traffic safety enforcement, focusing on unsafe driving behaviors, such as:
- Reckless or aggressive driving
- Distracted driving
- Following too closely
- Improper lane changes
- Failure to obey traffic control devices
- Failure to use a seat belt
- Evidence of drunk or drugged driving
As usual, drivers found in violation of any safety regulations could be issued a warning or citation.
In addition to heightened traffic safety enforcement, Operation Safe Driver Week calls for increased education and awareness of safe driving practices. Law enforcement agencies, transportation safety officials and motor carriers are encouraged to take this time to provide commercial drivers with valuable resources on safe driving behaviors.
2024 Campaign Focus
Each year, the CVSA identifies a specific topic to address during Operation Safe Driver Week. This year’s campaign focuses on both commercial motor vehicle drivers and passenger vehicle drivers engaging in reckless, careless or dangerous driving practices.
Any person who drives a vehicle with willful or wanton disregard for the safety of others or property is engaging in reckless driving. Careless or dangerous driving is defined as operating a vehicle without due care, attention or reasonable consideration for other motorists or pedestrians.
Law enforcement agencies across the United States will participate in Operation Safe Driving Week. Speeding, distracted driving and drunk driving are all high-risk driving behaviors that will be targeted during the initiative.
What Motor Carriers Can Do
Motor carriers must prepare for Operation Safe Driver Week by educating their employees on safe driving behaviors and enforcing commercial driver regulatory compliance throughout their organizations.
Here are some simple reminders that motor carriers can share with their drivers in preparation for Operation Safe Driver Week:
- Follow all traffic laws.
- Wear your seat belt at all times.
- Obey all posted speed limits.
- Never use your cellphone while driving.
- Avoid driving when impaired by alcohol or drugs.
- Practice safe driving habits at all times.
- Maintain proper following distances from vehicles in front of you.
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