Operation Safe Driver Week: how to be prepared

Operation Safe Driver Week will take place from July 13 to 19, here are some actions to perform to be prepared for inspections.

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) has announced the upcoming edition of Operation Safe Driver Week, which will take place from July 13 to 19, 2025. This annual initiative brings together traffic enforcement authorities from Canada, Mexico, and the United States with the goal of enhancing road safety.

Throughout the week, law enforcement officers will focus on identifying and addressing dangerous driving behaviors. Any commercial driver engaging in unsafe actions may receive a warning or a citation, depending on the severity of the offense. This year’s campaign will focus specifically on reckless, careless, and dangerous driving.

This initiative represents a joint effort among neighboring countries to strengthen road safety culture and encourage responsibility among commercial motor vehicle drivers, who play a key role in highway safety.

How to prepare for Operation Safe Driver Week

Being prepared doesn’t just mean passing inspections — it means building good habits that help keep roads safe for everyone. Below are a few actions you can take to ensure your fleet is ready for inspections.

Inspect your vehicle before every trip

While Operation Safe Driver Week is focused on driver behavior, operating a poorly maintained vehicle is also considered a safety risk. A thorough pre-trip inspection not only keeps you safer, it also demonstrates professionalism to enforcement officers. OTR Solutions recommends checking the following components:

Headlights (front, taillights, and turn signals)
Tires (condition, pressure, and tread depth)
Brake systems and air pressure
Windshield wipers and fluid levels
Mirrors (for cracks and secure mounting)
Horn and other warning devices
Security of coupling devices

Keep your ELDs and records in order

Inspectors will always check to ensure Hours of Service, certificates, and records are accurate and up to date. Avoid any discrepancies, as they could lead to a violation and an out-of-service order. Carefully review your ELD entries, adhere to required rest and driving time limits, and make sure all your documentation is in proper order.

Safe driving tips to avoid violations

According to the CVSA, reckless driving is defined as operating a vehicle without reasonable care, attention, or consideration for other drivers or pedestrians. Examples include speeding, using a mobile phone while driving, not wearing a seatbelt, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

To drive safely and avoid potential violations — not just during inspections — the following practices are recommended:

Maintain a following distance of at least 7 seconds
Use turn signals well in advance of lane changes or turns
Obey posted speed limits
Avoid using mobile devices while driving
Always wear your seatbelt
Plan your route ahead of time and consider backup routes

The CVSA hopes this week-long effort will help reduce crashes and raise awareness. The combination of enforcement and education is key to achieving this goal.