As part of our ongoing commitment to commercial vehicle safety, I want to remind all PMTA members and industry partners about the upcoming Brake Safety Week, scheduled for August 24 through 30, 2025. This important campaign is a coordinated effort by law enforcement across Canada, Mexico, and the United States to conduct thorough inspections of commercial motor vehicle brake systems, raise awareness about brake safety, and ensure compliance with critical safety standards.

This year, the focus will be on brake drums and rotors—key components that directly impact a vehicle’s braking efficiency and overall safety on the road. Issues with drums and rotors can lead to brake failure and, in some cases, broken pieces may detach while the vehicle is in motion, creating hazardous conditions for other motorists. These situations are unacceptable, and Brake Safety Week aims to identify and eliminate these risks before they result in serious incidents.

Certified inspectors from the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) will carry out routine inspections concentrating on brake systems, including the drums and rotors. Any commercial motor vehicles found with brake-related out-of-service violations—or other critical safety violations—will be immediately taken off the road until the issues are resolved.

During the week, inspectors will also collect valuable data on brake inspections and violations, some using performance-based brake testers (PBBT) where available. This data will be analyzed by CVSA and shared publicly later in the year, providing insights that help us all improve brake safety standards across North America.

Beyond enforcement, Brake Safety Week is about education. We encourage all drivers, fleet operators, owner-operators, and maintenance personnel to take advantage of available CVSA resources and prepare ahead of time. Proper brake inspection, maintenance, and operation are not just regulatory requirements—they are essential practices that protect lives, cargo, and our reputation as a responsible industry.

At PMTA, safety remains our top priority. Let’s work together during Brake Safety Week and every day to keep brakes in optimal condition and ensure safe roadways for everyone.

Stay safe and stay vigilant.