Downtime equals missed deadlines and lost revenue. RevenueĪccidents and breakdowns inevitably lead to downtime. Roadside repairs are typically more expensive than your average in-shop service, so unresolved defects can also strain your wallet. Pre-trip inspections assist drivers in finding minor vehicle issues that could snowball into more significant, costlier complications. Thoroughly complete pre-trip inspections before hitting the pavement to avoid accident liability. LiabilityĪccidents involving others - even if they’re not your fault - can increase your company’s liability insurance costs, especially if you don’t have documentation proving that you completed a pre-trip inspection. Missing or incomplete pre-trip inspections could lead to fines that impact your Compliance, Safety and Accountability (CSA) score. The DOT requires commercial drivers to complete pre-trip inspections before each shift to ensure the vehicle is safe to drive. These checks help drivers identify and address dangerous but common complications, including unsecured cargo loads, loose wheel lug nuts and brake line fluid leaks. SafetyĪ pre-trip inspection could save your or someone else’s life. Below are the top reasons you and your crew should always complete a truck evaluation before hitting the road. However, pre-trip checklists offer truckers several other advantages. Pre-trip truck inspections are intended to keep you and other drivers safe while operating your commercial vehicle. Bureau of Labor Statistics, it had one of the highest ratings for occupations with fatal work injuries in 2021. Why Is It Important to Perform a Pre-Trip Truck Inspection?ĭriving a truck is one of the most dangerous jobs in the nation. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulation (FMCSR), drivers must also submit a Daily Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR) for every vehicle they operate each day. For this reason, they must occur before a driver starts their shift and every 24 hours while on the road. Overall, pre-trip inspections ensure your truck is in working order before dispatch, helping you stay safe, compliant and productive. Drivers should also organize and keep track of compliance paperwork for easy access and review, including the truck’s registration details, inspection stickers, state permits, International Fuel Tax Agreement stickers and paper logbook. Rectify the issue before operating the vehicle again, and retain a copy of the report for at least 12 months following the inspection, according to the DOT. You should never depart on a trip if you find faults with the truck or its systems. Pre-trip truck inspection reports should also note any possible vehicle defects. Service brakes and trailer brake connections.According to the Department of Transportation (DOT), drivers must - at a minimum - check the following: Drivers must ensure all parts, accessories and systems are functional before operating the vehicle. It is a comprehensive inspection of your truck’s major systems, including the truck, trailer and load. What Is a Pre-Trip Truck Inspection?Ī pre-trip truck inspection is an essential first step of every commercial road trip. We’ll also provide an example of a pre-trip inspection checklist to help get you started. In this guide, you’ll find the answers to your most frequently asked questions about pre-trip truck inspections. It is also a core proficiency evaluation on a trucker’s Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Pre-Trip Inspection exam, which you will need to take if you plan to start a trucking career. This inspection ensures you comply with federal commercial driving laws that exist to keep you and others safe. If you’re considering becoming a trucker, knowing what a pre-trip truck inspection is and how to complete the process correctly is essential.
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