Captain Brian Ausloos, Wisconsin State Patrol
608/709-0070, brian.ausloos@dot.wi.gov
As part of year-round efforts to prevent crashes and enhance safety for commercial motor vehicle operators and all travelers, inspectors with the Wisconsin State Patrol will join their law enforcement counterparts across North America during “Brake Safety Day” on Thursday, September 7.
During the annual event sponsored by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA), motor carrier officers will intensify inspections of brake systems on large trucks, buses and other commercial motor vehicles. Law enforcement officials will also educate drivers, mechanics and commercial motor vehicle companies about the importance of routinely checking and properly maintaining brakes.
“Defective or improperly adjusted brakes are among the most common equipment violations we see when inspecting commercial motor vehicles,” said Wisconsin State Patrol Captain Brian Ausloos. “While this is a one-day event to focus attention on the importance of well-maintained brakes on large trucks, the State Patrol works throughout the year to inspect vehicles, educate drivers and take enforcement action as needed to help ensure the safety of all travelers.”
The Wisconsin State Patrol operates 13 Safety and Weight Enforcement Facilities throughout the state along with several “pull-off” sites to inspect commercial motor vehicles. When significant problems are discovered, commercial vehicles and drivers can be placed out of service until the violations are addressed. “Properly-operating brake systems are vital on all vehicles, but especially for large trucks which require about twice the stopping distance compared to most cars,” Captain Ausloos said.
