Independence Day Holiday

As we celebrate Independence Day, please take a moment to honor America and all that it represents. Also, remember the military servicemen and women who are protecting our freedom around the globe and fighting for those who do not have the liberty our great country provides. Let us never forget those who sacrificed before us to protect the United States and the values we hold dear.

Please note: The next Idealease Safety Bulletin will be distributed on July 11th due to the Fourth of July holiday.

Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over

To keep families safe this Independence Day, law enforcement agencies will increase enforcement focused on impaired driving throughout the holiday period.

Drinking and driving is a dangerous combination. The consequences are abundantly clear, yet

sober

people still make the poor decision to drive after drinking. Please be smart and make this Fourth of July holiday a fun and memorable one.

If you are attending a Fourth of July party, designate a sober driver before heading out. If you are hosting, offer nonalcoholic drinks for designated drivers and monitor guests’ alcohol consumption. If someone who has been drinking plans to drive, check how they’re getting home. Offer to let them stay overnight if no sober driver is available.

Remember: Buzzed driving is drunk driving. With the rise in ride-share options, there is no excuse for driving impaired.

The average cost of a DUI arrest is approximately $13,500, including vehicle impound fees, fines, attorney fees, increased auto insurance premiums, and other penalties. Additionally, prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and marijuana can all impair your ability to drive—especially when combined with alcohol or other substances—and can result in a DUI.

Is Your Terminal Facility Prepared for the Fourth of July Holiday?

It is not uncommon for thieves to target truck terminals and dealerships over holiday weekends. Thieves know these weekends often present opportunities due to reduced on-site activity. Take extra precautions to secure your facility:

  • Ensure anti-siphon devices or locking caps are in place—or instruct drivers not to fuel units at the end of the day.

  • Confirm all security alarms and cameras are fully operational.

  • Walk the perimeter and check that fencing is secure and undamaged.

  • Move units, pallets, tires, and other materials away from fences to prevent them from being used to climb over.

  • Make sure security lighting is functioning and not obstructed by vehicles or trees.

  • Consider blocking entrances and exits to prevent unit theft.

  • Assign management personnel to randomly check the terminal over the weekend.

  • Notify local law enforcement of your holiday operating hours so they know when activity at your facility is expected.

A little prevention and common sense can go a long way in deterring theft and protecting your business.

Cargo Theft and the Fourth of July

Here are some significant thefts from previous Fourth of July weekends:

  • $180,000 in meat products – Georgetown, TX

  • $439,895 in medical supplies – Davenport, FL

  • $352,000 in computer electronics – San Francisco, CA

  • $180,000 in ATVs – Savannah, GA

  • $314,191 in computer electronics – Commerce, CA

cargo

cargo

CVSA Brake Safety Week: August 24–30

This year’s Brake Safety Week is scheduled for August 24–30, as announced by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA). The event is part of Brake Safety Awareness Month in August.

During this enforcement campaign, roadside inspectors will:

  • Conduct North American Standard Inspections focused on brake systems and components

  • Pay special attention to brake drums and rotors

CVSA will publish a report summarizing the findings later this year. This event is also a valuable opportunity for motor carriers to educate drivers and maintenance providers on the importance of brake safety.