HENDERSON, Ky. (August 24, 2026) – Brake issues are the top reason for commercial vehicles to be placed out of service.
The Kentucky State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division is participating in Brake Safety Week, an international safety initiative focusing on reducing crashes caused by defective braking systems on large trucks.
KSP CVE Officers and Inspectors, as well as certified inspectors in Canada, Mexico and the U.S., will conduct focused inspections this week as part of this effort.
The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance reports that brake issues consistently rank as the leading cause of vehicles being placed out of service during roadside inspections. Poorly maintained or improperly installed brake systems can significantly reduce a vehicle’s ability to stop, creating serious risks for both drivers and the traveling public.
In addition, inspectors will focus on drums and rotors, the emphasis for this year’s brake-safety initiative. Brake drum and rotor issues may affect a vehicle’s brake efficiency.
Broken pieces of drums and rotors may become dislodged from the vehicle enroute, damaging other vehicles or causing injury or deadly crashes.
Public Affairs Officer Michael Smith, KSP West Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Spokesperson, elaborates on how Brake Safety Week is an essential reminder for roadway safety.
“Whether it involves a commercial motor vehicle or a passenger vehicle, proactive maintenance helps reduce crashes and save lives,” Smith said. “The Kentucky State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division is reminding everyone that safety is a shared responsibility among drivers, motor carriers, inspectors and the broader transportation community.”
Brake Safety Week is a component of the CVSA’s Operation Airbrake Program, which promotes safer commercial motor vehicle operations throughout North America. More than 3.4 million brakes have been inspected since the program’s inception in 1998.
The effort coincides with Brake Safety Awareness Month, during which law enforcement agencies across the country work to educate drivers, mechanics, motor carriers and owner-operators about the importance of regular brake inspections and maintenance.
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