Pre- Trip Inspections

Why is it Important to do a Pre-Trip Inspection?

When doing an inspection, it allows the driver to make sure their vehicle is road worthy. It also allows for a safe arrival at your destination. There are many benefits to inspecting your vehicle and here are just a few:

• It may save money on gas: Sometimes when your vehicle is having a problem it will use more gas, but if a driver spots the problem and gets it fixed before they go anywhere, they may save a lot of money.
• Keep Insurance Low: Driving a faulty vehicle can be very dangerous and lead to the driver getting into an accident. If you inspect your car, you are less likely to get into an accident, meaning your car insurance price will also stay down.
• Improved Customer Satisfaction: If the driver checks the vehicle before they leave, they are less likely to break down on the road, meaning they will get to their destination on time. But if a driver does not inspect their vehicle, they may break down causing them to be late getting to a customer.
• You will be Safe!

What to Look for During an Inspection:

Depending on the vehicle you drive, and if you are towing anything, what a driver may be looking for will vary. Here are a few common things to look for during your pre-trip inspection.

Inside the Vehicle: 

• Make sure no latches or levers are broken on seats and that they can stay in place.
• Make sure seat belts are secure and can properly fasten.
• Make sure heater/defroster is operating correctly.
• Make sure the horn is operating correctly.

Outside the Vehicle: 

• Ensure all doors open and close properly.
• Make sure all cargo is properly put away and secured.
• Inspect exhaust system for leaks.
• Ensure the fuel tank and fuel are secure and free of leaks.
• Identify and general damage to the vehicle.
• Check mirrors and windows for many cracks or damage.
• Inspect suspension system for air leaks, missing or broken fastener or spring leaf.
• Check the thread and sidewall of tires for damage or wear. Ensure there is no flat tires, or air leaks.
• Ensure wheel hubs and fasteners are secure, undamaged and not leaking.
• Make sure hub oil is above the minimum level.
• Check that window cleaner is above the minimum level.

Vehicle Controls: 

• Check the air brake system, look for air leaks, air pressure loss or in operational service, parking or emergency brake.
• Ensure parking brake is working.
• Ensure driver controls including accelerator, clutch, gauges and indicators are working properly.
• Check for many burnt out lead lights.
• Inspect steering wheel is secure and functioning properly.
• Ensure windshield wipers are functioning properly and are not broken or damaged.

Risks of Not Completing a Pre-Trip Inspection:

There are many risks to not completing an inspection of your vehicle, and many things that could possibly go wrong. For example:

• You could lose time getting to your destination because you need a repair.
• You may get into a car accident, hurting yourself or someone else.
• Your car may have serious damage and become unsafe to drive.

What to do if Something is Wrong:

If during your inspection you notice something wrong, there is a few things you need to do:

• If you are driving a company vehicle notify your manager immediately.
• If you are driving your personal vehicle notify your manager that you may be late.
• Do not drive the vehicle unless it is safe to do so..
• Call a shop and explain what you think is wrong, they will give you further instruction of what to do.
• If you are going to meet a customer, make sure to inform them of the situation and apologies for the inconvenience.