Every truck driver knows that a daily inspection is required. And while the checkboxes are routinely ticked the responsibility for safety begins before the driving starts. But it doesn’t end there. Considering the sheer magnitude of miles and the number of hours the equipment is operating it’s reasonable to expect that parts wear out, freight may shift, and leaks can develop. Drivers who regularly check on their vehicle will find themselves rolling more miles than their counterparts, spending less time—and money—-in the shop or stuck on the side of the interstate.

Pre-Trip

Before a driver heads on their daily run, a pre-trip inspection is required under Rule 49 CFR § 396.13 which states: “Before driving a motor vehicle, the driver shall be satisfied that the motor vehicle is in safe operating condition.” During this initial inspection, drivers are required to make an assessment of various components on their truck and trailer including all lighting, air systems, and climate controls. This inspection, if not completed, can result in fines and further delays in your freight reaching its destination.

Mid-Trip

The mid-trip inspection is not required under law but goes a long way in keeping you rolling. Whether you’ve stopped at the pumps to top up your tanks or finally pulling off for your 30-minute break, take time to check out your truck. Check your trailer doors; if they aren’t sealed, open them to check your freight for any shifting. Give your tires a visual inspection, check the ground underneath the motor for any leaks, and listen to your air lines and glad hands for any possible air leaks. Keep extra glad hand seals in your truck because you never know when you’ll need to replace them, especially if you are swapping trailers during your run.

Post-Trip

The last thing you want to do at the end of your day is complete an inspection, but it can prevent any morning delays. The mid-trip and post-trip inspections are not required by law but they are a best practice for all drivers. As you did with your mid-trip inspection, visually inspect your truck looking for any damages that may have occurred throughout the day, ensure all lights are properly functioning, and check your tires. I make it a habit to give all my tires a knock at the end of the day to rule out the likelihood of a morning flat tire. Thanks to roadside service many repairs can be done wherever you find yourself parked. An additional benefit to the post-trip inspection is that it provides a benchmark for the next day’s pre-trip inspection.

Extra Checks

Flatbed Trailers

Drivers must also stop to check their loads within the first 50 miles of the trip, and after they’ve driven for three hours or 150 miles, whichever happens first.

Reefers

Drivers who haul reefers are aware of the unique expectations of temperature requirements depending on their load. It’s helpful, and preventative, to check the reefer temperature and fuel level on a regular basis through each run to ensure proper operation.

Tug Test

It won’t take long before you hear stories of drivers who have found their fifth-wheel pin pulled after a stop. Make it a habit to complete a simple tug test after every stop when you are away from your truck. This simple test takes just seconds but can prevent significant problems and damage later on down the road.