Law Enforcement to Target Commercial Vehicles During CVSA’s Operation Safe Drivers Week

Understanding Operation Safe Driver Week 2025

Each July, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) rolls out its highly anticipated Operation Safe Driver Week. It’s not just another annual campaign. It’s a strategic, nationwide enforcement initiative targeting risky driving behaviors by all drivers (commercial and passenger vehicles alike). Backed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), this operation is designed to reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities involving large trucks and buses.

For 2025, the CVSA is zeroing in on two behaviors: reckless driving and careless driving. Truckers, fleet managers, and owner-operators should expect increased roadside inspections, heightened enforcement presence on major freight corridors, and a laser focus on unsafe driving habits.

Why This Week Matters to Commercial Drivers

Commercial vehicle drivers are already held to higher standards on the road. During Safe Driver Week, those standards are put to the test. Law enforcement officers across North America will be watching closely for speeding, distracted driving, tailgating, mobile device usage, and DUI offenses.

Officers will not hesitate to pull over violators. And when they do, the consequences of a citation have a long-lasting impact. Citations are recorded on the driver’s Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) scores, which have a domino effect on insurance costs and business viability.

Why Transportation Insurance Matters During Safe Driver Week  

With heightened enforcement and increased scrutiny on unsafe driving behaviors, drivers tend to see a surge  in citations. Proper transportation insurance isn’t just a compliance requirement, it’s a financial safeguard. Violations directly impact CSA scores, which can lead to higher premiums. Citations from Operation Safe Driver Week can also be used as evidence in liability cases down the line. Ensuring policies are up-to-date before enforcement ramps up is a necessary step in mitigating risk. 

PFA Transportation Insurance and Surety Services is your one-stop-shop for comprehensive transportation insurance. Don’t get caught off guard by the uptick in enforcement during Operation Safe Driver Week. Keep your business compliant and covered to avoid any unnecessary violations.

Top Violations That Will Trigger a Stop

This year, enforcement agencies are prioritizing:

• Speeding and aggressive lane changes
• Distracted driving, including texting or phone use
• Seatbelt violations, which are still shockingly common
• Following too closely
• Impaired driving, whether by alcohol, drugs, or fatigue

Even minor infractions could draw attention from enforcement officers. For example, a seat belt infraction might seem insignificant, but during Operation Safe Drivers Week, it can lead to more in-depth inspections.

The Long-Term Impact on CSA Scores

Violations remain on a driver’s CSA record for 24 months. This extended visibility can lead to increased roadside inspections and a higher likelihood of Department of Transportation (DOT) audits. In severe cases, poor CSA performance may threaten a carrier’s operating authority altogether. For fleet owners, the stakes are even higher.

Worse still, brokers and shippers often consult CSA scores when deciding whether to do business with a carrier. A poor safety record can cost your fleet high-value contracts or cause customers to take their loads elsewhere.

Why Fleets and Owner-Operators Must Be Proactive

Ignoring Safe Driver Week is a costly gamble. Fleets that prepare adequately can mitigate risks, protect their brand reputation, and maintain strong relationships with logistics partners. Here’s how to prepare:

• Conduct safety briefings with drivers
• Reinforce defensive driving principles
• Remind drivers about the severe impact of minor violations
• Check all regulatory documentation for accuracy and accessibility
• Make sure transportation insurance (from liability to cargo coverage) are up-to-date

Fleet owners should also audit their driver records and vehicle maintenance logs. Inspectors are more likely to give you the benefit of the doubt if you can show an ongoing commitment to safety.

Common Misconceptions About Enforcement

The level of enforcement varies depending on local law enforcement capacity, resources, and priorities. However, major freight corridors and interstate highways typically experience the highest level of enforcement activity. 

Another misconception is that citations received can be easily erased. While it’s possible to contest them in court, the process can be long, expensive, and hard to win. Even if your appeal is successful, the violation may still appear on your record.

How to Stay Ahead of Operation Safe Driver Week

Preparation is the best defense. 

• Revisit your fleet’s driver safety training program. Update it if necessary.
• Use dashcams and telematics to monitor driving behavior in real time.
• Encourage self-reporting of infractions and near-misses to foster accountability.
• Stay informed by subscribing to FMCSA and CVSA updates.

One overlooked tip: use visuals during your training sessions. According to research, drivers retain more information when training includes videos and illustrations. You could explore free video resources or consider investing in professional safety training content.

Real-World Stats That Emphasize the Stakes

According to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 42,000 people were killed in crashes in 2022. A significant percentage involved large trucks. This alarming statistic is one of the driving forces behind Safe Driver Week.

The 2024 operation saw thousands of citations issued and a noticeable dip in high-risk driving behaviors where enforcement was strong. Law enforcement agencies reported that drivers were more cautious, and fleets responded positively to proactive messaging.

How to Communicate the Message to Drivers

Many drivers view Operation Safe Driver Week as a burden. The challenge lies in reshaping this narrative. Use newsletters, safety meetings, and one-on-one coaching sessions to frame the week as a chance to demonstrate professionalism.

Remind drivers that staying violation-free helps them secure better-paying jobs and protect their CDLs. Reinforce that safety isn’t just a regulatory box to check—it’s a competitive advantage.

When the Week Ends, Don’t Let the Focus Fade

While the weeklong operation is intense, its purpose is to build long-lasting behavioral change. Don’t pack away your safety binders on Sunday. Use the momentum to build a year-round safety culture.

Schedule periodic follow-up assessments. Reward drivers who consistently display safe habits. Share success stories and recognize improvement. Consider nominating top performers for internal or external safety awards.

Final Thoughts: Treat This Week Like an Audit You Can Prepare For

CVSA’s Operation Safe Driver Week 2025 is more than a campaign. It’s a test of your fleet’s commitment to the core values of safety, accountability, and professionalism. Treat it seriously, and it will show—in your insurance premiums, customer satisfaction scores, and driver retention rates.

This isn’t about fearing citations. It’s about fostering a company culture that thrives on vigilance and responsibility. That’s a brand reputation you can’t buy, but one you can definitely earn.

Don’t Wait for an Inspection to Find a Coverage Gap

As Operation Safe Driver Week highlights the importance of proactive safety and compliance, it’s also the perfect time to assess whether your freight business is truly protected. At PFA Transportation Insurance and Surety Services, we offer tailored solutions to keep brokers and carriers secure on and off the road. 

From comprehensive freight broker insurance that safeguards against liability risks to surety bonds that ensure your business meets FMCSA requirements, we help you operate with confidence and credibility. Don’t wait for a safety blitz to uncover a coverage gap. Partner with PFA today and drive forward with peace of mind.