Commonly Overlooked Checks During a Pre-Trip Inspection

Commonly Overlooked Checks During a Pre-Trip Inspection

As a truck driver, you know that safety is your top priority. That's why it's important to perform a pre-trip truck inspection before every trip. This helps ensure that the vehicle is in safe working condition and can help you avoid potential problems on the road. Most drivers know the basics, like checking fluid levels and tire pressure, but there are some areas that are commonly overlooked. In this blog post, we'll share what to look for before driving your truck.  

Chock Your Wheels 

A typical task that is often forgotten during a pre-trip inspection is the chocking of wheels. This is essential for preventing your car from rolling while you are performing other checks, such as checking the oil level or tire pressure. If you fail to chock your wheels, there is a risk that your car could roll and cause an accident. 

Cleanliness

Unfortunately, many drivers forget some crucial aspects of a truck inspection, including the importance of cleanliness. A dirty car with dirt and debris build up on the windshield can make it difficult to see and possibly affect the engine. This can be especially dangerous at night or in poor weather conditions.

Brakes

Brake pads can wear down relatively quickly, especially if they are used frequently or on very long trips. If the brake pads are not replaced when they start to wear out, they can eventually damage the braking system, leading to an accident. 

Emergency Kit

You never know when you'll break down, or when you'll find yourself in the middle of nowhere with no cell service. That's why it's always a good idea to be prepared with an emergency kit packed and ready to go. Your kit should include some basics like a flashlight, a first-aid kit, and a map. 

Reflectors

If you're a truck driver, then you know how important it is to be visible on the road, especially at night. That's why it's always a good idea to pack and use reflectors to make the truck more visible to other drivers. They can also be used to mark the edges of the road and shoulders, making it easier for drivers to stay within their lane. Whether you're driving in daylight or darkness, reflectors can help keep you safe on the road. 

Seatbelts

The seatbelt is the truck driver's primary means of protection in the event of an accident, and it should be checked to ensure that it is in good condition and properly adjusted. By taking a few minutes to properly check the seatbelts, you can help to ensure your safety.

Wheel Lug Nuts

Over time, wheel lug nuts can become loose or corroded, which can lead to serious problems. If one comes off while driving, it could cause the wheel to come off entirely! This would not only be dangerous for the driver, but it could also cause damage to other vehicles on the road. For this reason, it's crucial to make sure that all of the nuts are tight before setting out on a trip.

Don’t Forget the Paperwork

Drivers should always check that they have all the required documents, including their license, registration, log book, and insurance. If any of these are missing or out of date, it could lead to hefty fines. 

Become a Professional Truck Driver Today!

By taking the time to test a range of vehicle components, you can identify potential issues and address them before they become a bigger dilemma. If you knew to check all of these key areas, then you may have what it takes to become a truck driver!

At Professional Transport Driver Training School, you will learn the skills and knowledge that you need to be a successful transport driver. For more information, give us a call at (204) 925-1580 (Winnipeg) or (204) 729-0240 (Manitoba) or complete our contact form .