2019

~ The effort seeks to reduce the number of crashes caused or made more severe by faulty brake systems ~

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Beginning today through September 21, 2019, the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) joins the Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) to participate in Brake Safety Week. Throughout the initiative, FHP Troopers will conduct roadside safety inspections on commercial motor vehicles. Vehicles with critical brake violations or other critical vehicle inspection item violations, will be restricted from traveling until those violations are corrected.

“It is paramount that commercial motor vehicle brake systems and their components are routinely checked and maintained to ensure the safety of everyone on Florida’s roads,” said Colonel Gene S. Spaulding, Director of the Florida Highway Patrol. “FHP Troopers will be paying special attention to brake hoses and tubing during the week to ensure these vehicles are in compliance.”

Routine brake system inspections and component replacement are vital to the safety of commercial motor vehicles. The brake systems on commercial motor vehicles are comprised of components that work together to slow and stop the vehicle and brake hoses and tubing are essential for the proper operation of those systems. Brake hoses and tubing must be properly attached and undamaged, without leaks and appropriately flexible. Brake hoses and tubing are an important part of the braking system so when they do fail, they can cause problems for the rest of the braking system.

Motorists should protect themselves and their passengers by learning how to share the road safely. FHP offers these tips for driving around large trucks:

• Stay out of the No Zone: Be aware that large trucks have large blind spots (also known as “No Zones”).
• Pass trucks with caution: Pass on the left side for maximum visibility and maintain a constant speed.
• Use extra caution around trucks: Be sure to leave plenty of room when you pull in front of a truck. Large trucks simply can’t stop as quickly as smaller vehicles.
• Practice patience around larger vehicles that are not traveling at the same speed as your vehicle.
• Report aggressive or dangerous driving by dialing *FHP (*347) or 911.

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) provides highway safety and security through excellence in service, education and enforcement. FL is leading the way to A Safer Florida through the efficient and professional execution of its core mission: the issuance of driver licenses, vehicle tags and titles and operation of the Florida Highway Patrol. To learn more about FLHSMV and the services offered, visit www.flhsmv.gov, follow us on Twitter @FLHSMV, find us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram.

This year, the FLHSMV celebrates its 50th anniversary and its Division of the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) commemorates its 80th year. Learn more at flhsmv.gov/behindthedrive.