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News Release

KSP Participating in 'Operation Air Brake Safety Week'

Date of News Release: 09/14/2009

(Frankfort, Ky.) -- The KSP Commercial Vehicle Enforcement (CVE) Division is participating in 'Operation Air Brake Safety Week' that is scheduled September 13 – 19, 2009. This national campaign is an ongoing effort dedicated to improving commercial vehicle brake safety throughout North America. The purpose is to reduce the number of highway crashes caused by faulty braking systems on commercial vehicles by conducting roadside inspections and educating drivers, mechanics and others on the importance of proper brake inspection, maintenance and operation.

Throughout the week of 'Operation Air Brake Safety,' CVE Officers and Inspectors will conduct roadside inspections of commercial vehicles with an emphasis on braking systems.

Lt. Col. Mitch Bailey, Division Director for CVE said that improperly adjusted air brakes and brake system defects are common violations during weigh station inspections.

"Poorly adjusted or defective air brakes reduce the braking capacity for large vehicles and further inhibit their stopping distance," said Bailey. "Under ideal conditions, the braking capacity of commercial vehicles is twice as far as that for cars and other smaller vehicles. This increases the risk to other motorists on the road and the driver of the vehicle itself."

In 2008, there were 6,246 crashes involving a commercial motor vehicle in Kentucky. Of those crashes, there were 1,617 injuries and 106 deaths.

Citizens can contribute to highway safety by reporting erratic drivers to the Kentucky State Police toll-free at 1-800-222-5555. Callers will remain anonymous and should give a description of the vehicle, location, direction of travel and license number if possible.

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