Commercial truck drivers are trained to drive their rigs as safely and responsibly as possible while on public roads and highways. As a part of this mission, the Department of Transportation carries out safety inspections to ensure truck drivers and their trucks are truly as safe as they can be. Truck drivers should be aware of what takes place during an inspection so they have a better chance of passing their inspection successfully.
During a basic and routine inspection, all the truck operator's documents are looked over, as well as the contents of the trailer for potentially prohibited or illegal materials. Examples of documents checked include a medical card, driver's license, and daily log with daily driving hours. Specific parts of the truck that are examined consist of coupling devices, seatbelts, headlights, emergency exits, frame, fuel system, and trailer bodies.
Special inspections focus on a specific truck feature that is designated to be examined, usually with the intention of overruling a previous claim or gathering evidence for a trend or study. Often this is a quick, one-time inspection. It is worth noting here that truck accident attorneys are well aware of DOT truck safety rules and inspection claims. It's this knowledge that allows them to build a case against a negligent truck owner and driver.
This level of the truck safety inspection is intended for drivers who transport highway route controlled quantities of radioactive materials, all of which are required to successfully pass the North American Standard Level VI Inspection. During this step of the inspection process, the truck is inspected for radiological transporting requirements, checking for radiological shipments, enhancements up to level 1, and other inspection measures.
Truck drivers who drive a large truck for a living should make sure they are always well-prepared for a safety inspection. A Thorough self-check consists of testing the brakes and brake lights, headlights, turn signals, trailer lights, tires, splash guards, and cracks in the windshield. You can find a complete safety checklist online that matches the type of truck you own or drive.
