With ELD implementation a major topic for trucking in 2018, this year’s International RoadCheck inspection blitz will focus on hours of service compliance.

"Although the electronic logging device rule that went into effect on Dec. 18, 2017, does not change any of the underlying hours-of-service rules or exceptions, the ELD mandate placed a spotlight on hours-of-service compliance," said Capt. Christopher Turner, Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance president and an officer in the Kansas Highway Patrol. "We thought this year would be a perfect opportunity to focus on the importance of the hours-of-service regulations."

The CVSA’s annual RoadCheck event is set to take place from June 5-7, 2018, across the U.S. and Canada. Inspectors will primarily conduct the North American Standard Level I Inspections, a 37-step procedure that includes an examination of both driver operating requirements and vehicle mechanical fitness.

As part of the inspection, drivers will be asked to provide their operating credentials and hours-of-service documentation, and will be checked for seat belt usage. Inspectors will also be attentive to apparent alcohol and/or drug impairment.

The vehicle inspection also includes checking brake systems, cargo securement, coupling devices, driveline/driveshaft components, exhaust systems, frames, fuel systems, lighting devices, steering mechanisms, suspensions, tires, van and open-top trailer bodies, wheels, rims and hubs, and windshield wipers.

If no critical inspection item violations are found during an inspection, a CVSA decal will be applied to the vehicle, indicating that the vehicle successfully passed a decal-eligible inspection conducted by a CVSA-certified inspector.

"The top reason drivers were placed out of service during 2017 International Roadcheck was for hours-of-service violations," said Turner. "Thirty-two percent of drivers who were placed out of service during last year's three-day International Roadcheck were removed from our roadways due to violations related to hours-of-service regulations. It's definitely an area we need to call attention to this year."