CHP press release re:NEVER PUT THE BRAKES ON SAFETY

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Defective brake systems in commercial vehicles constitute a major
reason why these vehicles are placed out of service. As a member of the Commercial Vehicle
Safety Alliance (CVSA), the California Highway Patrol (CHP) will observe Brake Safety
Awareness Week, September 8 – 14, 2013, to promote commercial vehicle brake safety.
With more than 1,000 CHP employees dedicated to commercial vehicle enforcement, the
department operates 51 Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Facilities throughout the state. On
average, the CHP conducts more than 500,000 commercial vehicle inspections annually. These
vehicle inspections, conducted both on-highway and off by the CHP, help ensure commercial
vehicle owners and operators are in compliance with state law.


“Our goal is to reduce the number and severity of highway collisions caused by faulty brake
systems on commercial vehicles,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow. “Proper brake
inspections, maintenance, and operation are the responsibility of drivers and mechanics.”
This year’s week-long, grant-funded effort provides an increased focus on commercial vehicle
operation safety and involves both enforcement and education. In addition to roadside
inspections of trucks and buses, the CHP will educate drivers, mechanics, and others on the
importance of proper brake inspection maintenance. Grant funding is use to increase resources
for the weeklong event.
“The purpose is to improve commercial vehicle brake safety throughout California,” said
Commissioner Farrow. “Our goal is to educate everyone on the importance of this issue so that
we can all travel safely on the roadways.”
CVSA is a not-for-profit organization comprised of local, state, and federal motor carrier safety
officials and industry representatives. Their mission is to promote commercial motor vehicle
safety and security by providing leadership to enforcement, industry, and policy makers.