How COVID-19 Caused a Delay

Each year, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) performs the International Roadcheck, which is considered to be a kind of public enforcement initiative. Since the International Roadcheck first began in 1988, more than 1.6 million inspections have occurred throughout these campaigns. While the International Roadcheck is typically held in May, it has already been delayed a couple of times because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

What Does the International Roadcheck Typically Entail?

Roadside inspections are essential for the trucking industry to ensure that the commercial trucks used for transporting goods are in prime working condition. These inspections are able to make sure that drivers remain compliant with the rules of the road and that they can operate their vehicles safely. The International Roadcheck program is designed for the purpose of enhancing the visibility of truck inspections while making them more popular among truck drivers.

The International Roadcheck currently exists as a three-day event that occurs on an annual basis. During this event, inspectors who have been certified by the CVSA will perform educational, compliance, and enforcement initiatives related to driver and vehicle safety. This program takes place in many different locations throughout the U.S. and is done in coordination with numerous organizations like the FMCSA and Transport Canada. In most years, this event occurs in May or June. This year’s scheduled event was intended for May as well, but was rescheduled for July. Of course, this event was also postponed, and it’s unclear when the International Roadcheck will take place this year.

The majority of inspections that are performed with this initiative involve standard 37-step procedures. These procedures include a comprehensive examination of the mechanical fitness of the vehicle as well as the operating requirements for the driver in question. Inspectors could also choose to perform a more thorough inspection. The 37 steps that take place in this inspection involve everything from inspecting the front of the trailer to examining the driver’s license.

Each driver will need to have certain items on hand while the inspection is taking place, which include:

• A driver’s license
• A Skill Performance Evaluation Certificate and a Medical Examiner’s Certificate
• Previous vehicle inspection reports

The inspector will also check for signs of fatigue, sickness, and seat belt usage. In the event that a driver passes the inspection, they will be provided with a decal from the CVSA.

Why the International Roadcheck Was Delayed

The 2020 International Roadcheck was delayed in May and again in July because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The reason for the second delay is the same as the reason for the first. Since the health and safety of the public is a top priority for CVSA, they have decided to postpone the International Roadcheck for the meantime. While no other date has been given, the CVSA states that they will attempt to hold the International Roadcheck sometime this year. The press, public, and motor carrier industry will be notified when the CVSA has selected new dates for the event.

It’s important to understand that standard traffic enforcement and roadside safety inspections will continue to occur every day throughout the year. The only difference is that the three-day event for broader awareness is delayed because of the logistics of holding this event while COVID-19 is ongoing. Within the 32-year history of the International Roadcheck event, this is the first time that the event has been officially delayed. In the meantime, it’s highly recommended that you keep any truck you operate in good condition.

How Trucks Can Get Through the International Roadcheck

There are some useful tips to follow that can help you pass the International Roadcheck inspection once the event takes place. These tips and guidelines include:

• Make sure that you’re organized by keeping your paperwork in a single binder
• Clean the air in your truck by draining the air tanks on a regular basis
• Clean the interior of the truck, paying special attention to the sleeper and cab
• Make sure that any load you’re carrying is secured by checking your methods for securing cargo
• Make sure that the truck’s brake pads, drums, and rotors are in good working condition
• Fill out your hours-of-service report before completing your work every day
• Maintain tire pressure to ensure that your truck can be operated safely
• Keep the running lights and any taillights operational for maximum visibility

If you make sure to adhere to these guidelines, you should be able to pass the International Roadcheck when it occurs as well as any other inspections throughout the year. It’s important to understand that there are 37 separate points that are covered throughout one of these inspections, which are detailed further here.

When to Obtain Help From a Trucking Accident Attorney

Truck accidents are very common events that can happen for a variety of reasons. The most common causes of truck accidents include:

• Changing lanes quickly when driving in front of a truck
• Misjudging the speed of a truck at an intersection
• Driving between two larger trucks
• Failing to speed up or slow down when a truck merges or changes lanes
• Passing a truck in an unsafe situation
• Fatigue and tiredness
• Poor components and parts within the truck that haven’t received maintenance

No matter the reason for the accident, it’s possible that you will need to file a lawsuit or claim with an insurance company for injuries or damage to your vehicle. In these situations, legal representation is advisable. Our trucking accident attorneys at RAM Law can help navigate any kind of legal situation involving a trucking accident. During these proceedings, there are a variety of different roles that our attorneys can take on, which include everything from organizing your medical bills to helping you fully understand the legal rights that you have.

During a truck accident case, fault will invariably need to be determined, which is why lawyers will investigate the scene of the accident and work on building a strong case. If medical attention is needed, the lawyer you choose may also help you identify certain specialists who can provide you with the medical care you require. Likely the most time-consuming aspect of any legal case is filling out paperwork, which our lawyers will complete so you can relax.

While the International Roadcheck has been delayed temporarily because of the presence of the COVID-19 pandemic, this event will take place eventually. When it does, it’s important that you’re prepared for an inspection. Make sure that you follow all safety guidelines for your truck by looking over the CVSA checklist. In the meantime, it’s possible that you will be involved in a trucking accident, which is very common and can occur for any number of reasons. When you’re involved in one of these accidents, you should seek legal representation to help guide you through every facet of your case.

If you want to get started on devising a legal strategy for your case, contact our New Jersey trucking accident attorney today at (732) 394-1549 to schedule the first consultation with us. We have plenty of experience with trucking accident cases, and we’ll be happy to help you with your case.