Truck Drivers: Are They Missing the Basics of Trucking?
March 29, 2025Truck Drivers: Are They Missing the Basics of Trucking?
March 29, 2025BLITZ WEEK-DOT 2025
When this happens: It will be held from May 13th to May 15th.
Where it happens: The inspections occur at weight stations, designated inspection areas, and along roadways across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada.
What to expect during this week? When truckers are flagged down during this 72-hour window, they (and their vehicles) are thoroughly checked for maintenance and driver compliance practices. We’ll explain the finer details of the inspection below, but in general, International Roadcheck inspections assess:
Commercial vehicle mechanical health, including but not limited to:
- Brakes
- Engines
- Lights
- Steering functions
- Fuel systems
- Cargo securement
- Driver credentials
- Hours of service (HOS) adherence and documentation
- Drug/alcohol impairment
What is the focus of the 2025 International Roadcheck?
This year, the inspector will inspect tires and check false records of duty status (RODS)
In addition to the inspections of the components, drivers need to expect to be assessed on all the key elements:
- Tire inspections are crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of commercial vehicles. Keeping tires in good condition helps maintain smooth operations. Failing to meet inspection standards can lead to fines and vehicles being taken out of service.
– Checking for adequate tread depth
– Proper inflation
– Overall tire condition:
-Air leaks
-Tread separations/ cuts/ bulges
– Sidewall damage or improper repairs
Inspectors also can check: for exposed material, flat tires, or improper repairs such as rubber-coated plugs. - RECORD OF DUTY STATUS
What is a RODS: RODS is a log used by drivers to track their on-duty, off-duty, and driving hours. These records help ensure compliance with federal regulations that limit consecutive working hours, preventing driver fatigue and enhancing road safety.
A RODS log typically includes details like the date, vehicle number, total driving hours, total miles driven within 24 hours, carrier’s name, 24-hour period starting time, address, driver’s certification/signature, and remarks.
Many carriers now use ELDs to automatically maintain RODS, replacing older systems like AOBRDs (Automatic On-Board Recording Devices).
False records or Duty Status (RODS):
Failure to record, complete, or retain the log, or knowingly falsifying logs or other reports, makes the driver and/or carrier liable to prosecution.
How long do truck drivers have to keep their logs?
It’s essential for all truck drivers to make sure their truck, trailer, cargo, and all documentation and logs are fully compliant during these three days.
Six months
During this week, a lot can go wrong, which is why many truck drivers prefer not to be on the road. Trucking companies and owner-operators are less motivated to risk their reputation and livelihoods. As a result, you can expect longer turnaround times and higher freight rates.
What we can do to prevent any disruption during Blitz week:
For an uninterrupted supply chain throughout Blitz Week, transparent communication with each of your trusted providers will be your greatest defense against disruption.
- Be aware, plan and communicate your needs
- Offer flexibility to trusted carriers
The best carriers have no reason to worry about non-compliance, trucking companies always appreciate some leniency – especially in times of congestion as Blitz Week.
Preparing for Blitz Week requires some proactive planning, but with the right resources and knowledge, you can keep your supply chain running smoothly during these challenging times in the transportation industry.
If you need additional information, you can visit the following link https://cvsa.org/news/2025-roadcheck/