2021 FOCUS - LIGHTING AND HOURS OF SERVICE
Each year, the CVSA emphasizes two areas of focus based on previous-year data in two main categories—driver operating requirements and vehicle mechanical fitness. This year’s focus will be on:
HOURS OF SERVICE
Drivers must adhere to the service regulations outlined for their specific geographic location (Mexico, Canada, and US), as it relates to:
- Not exceeding the maximum amount of hours allowed spent driving and working.
- Meeting minimum amount of time drivers must rest between driving shifts.
VEHICLE LIGHTING
Inspectors will evaluate the following, but not limited to:
- Headlamps, tail lamps, clearance lamps, identification lamps, license plate and side marker lamps, stop lamps, turn signals, and lamps on projecting loads.
- Proper color, operation, mounting, and visibility.
- The condition and location of reflectors and retroreflective sheeting.
D.O.T VIOLATIONS IN 2020
Drivers issued a violation for drivers exceeding their hours of service.
Vehicles issued a lighting-related violation
Vehicles cited for an inoperable required lamp—#1 violation
ROADCHECK READINESS CHECKLIST
Inspectors follow the 37-step North American Standard Level 1 Inspection. The following checklist is based directly on this inspection and intended to gauge your readiness.
- Check Yes — if you are confident the appropriate documentation and/or vehicle fitness is in order.
- Check No/Not Sure — if you need to take action or are unsure.
- Check Not Applicable — if the question is not applicable to you.
Don’t have time to take the assessment now? Download our printable checklist here instead and reference later.
For more information on the 37-step North American Standard Level 1 Inspection, visit the CVSA website.
Your Roadcheck Readiness Results
Thank you for taking the time and attention to prepare for D.O.T. Week. Be sure to turn your attention to any item where you answered No/Unsure. Keep on keeping safe!
- Valid driver’s license?
- Medical Examiner’s certificate?
- Skill Performance Evaluation (SPE) certificate?
- Up-to-date Record of Duty Status (driver’s log)?
- Up-to-date Daily Inspection Report?
- Periodic Inspection Report(s)?
- Front of Tractor - headlamps, turn signals, and windshield wipers
- Left Front Side of Tractor - front rim, hub, and tire
- Left Saddle Tank Area - fuel tank and exhaust system
- Front of Trailer - air and electrical lines and driveline/driveshaft
- Left Rear of Tractor - rims, hubs, tires, fifth wheel, and all required lamps
- Left Side of Trailer - frame and body, hoses, open-top trailer bodies, and cargo securement
- Left Rear Trailer Wheels - rims, hubs, tires, and sliding tandem
- Rear Trailer - all required lights/lamps and cargo securement
- Double, Triple Trailer - all safety devices
- Right Rear Trailer Wheels - wheels, rims, hubs, tires, and sliding tandem
- Right Side of Trailer - frame and body, hoses, open-top trailer bodies, and cargo securement
- Right Rear of Tractor - wheels, rims, hubs, tires, fifth wheel, and all required lamps
- Right Saddle Tank Area - fuel tank and exhaust system
- Right Front Side of Tractor - front wheel, rim, hub, and tire
- Steering Axle(s) - steering system, front suspension
- Steering Axle(s) - front axle, frame, and brake components
- Axles 2 and/or 3 - driveline, suspension, frame, and brake components
- Axle 4 and/or 5 - driveline, suspension, frame, and brake components
- Brake Adjustment - air pressure and leak free
- Tractor Protection System and Emergency Brakes - secure and leak free
- Brake System Warnings - all applicable lamps
- Air Loss Rate on Brakes - Airbrake Inspection Procedure
- Steering Wheel Lash - ensure measurements are within range
- Fifth Wheel Movement - no excessive movement
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HELPFUL RESOURCES
Below is a list of helpful resources to reference during D.O.T. week.
