On July 9, 2023, the annual law enforcement focus on unsafe CMV (Commercial Motor Vehicles) operation will begin. This driver focused effort, “Operation Safe Driver” will occur throughout the U.S. where motor carrier enforcement officers will be tasked with focusing their efforts on any observed driving infractions. This year's primary focus will be on speed violations, but any traffic violation will be strictly enforced. Commercial motor vehicle drivers need to be reminded of this increased effort by law enforcement to reinforce each driver's safe operation practices. In 2022, speed violations were the most frequent.  

Since the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) has reported high fatal crash rates involving CMV's in construction zones, it should be anticipated that a portion of this program's efforts will take place in or near construction zones. Be aware that the exclusion of 1mph-5mph from the CSA program does not apply to any speed violations that occur within a construction zone and the maximum CSA points will apply.

FMCSA's (FMCSA’s safety compliance and enforcement program) top unsafe driver violations, in addition to speeding, in 2022 were the following: Failure to obey traffic control device, safety belts, and lane restriction violations. Safety Belts allow the driver to maintain control of a CMV in unusual driving events and significantly contribute to the operator's safety and survival in event of a crash. 

Continued adherence to other safe driving practices such as safe following distances, lane changes, preventing distracted operation, and the proper use of signaling devices will help increase highway safety and avert any traffic stop delays during this safety program.