A recent question from a viewer on our website was about a tire blowout on a truck traveling near a car. The car driver asked if truck drivers had special training.
Truckers have extra training and extra duties.
One part of training to prevent truck accidents is the daily inspections a trucker is trained to and must do. Before driving, a truck driver must inspect key area of the truck, this should prevent a truck tire blowout:
PRE-TRIP INSPECTION:
- Tires -check pressure, check tread depth and look for signs of damage
- Check fluids – oil, coolant, power steering, brake fluid, windshield washer
- Check belts and hoses for cracks/looseness
- Brakes – check air pressure, functionality,
- Lights – check headlights, brake lights, turn signals, reflectors
- Check mirrors and windshield for cleanliness, cracks
- Emergency equipment – fire extinguisher, triangles, spare fuses
TIRE INSPECTION:
Tire inspection is particularly crucial for safety to:
- Prevents blowouts and accidents blowouts often cause
- Ensures proper traction and handling
- Make the big rig better for emergency maneuvers
Failing to inspect tires can lead to catastrophic failures, especially with heavy loads and long-distance travel. Proper inspection includes checking pressure, tread depth, wear patterns, and damage. Truck drivers are also required to perform a post trip inspection.
POST TRIP INSPECTION:
Also, at the end of the trip, the truck driver must identify any mechanical issues on a preprinted form. The driver must:
- check fuel levels,
- clean the cab and mirrors,
- secure the big rig,
- sign the form and provide it to the trucking company.
The trucking company is also responsible to see the truck driver is performing full and proper inspections. They are both responsible.
Dailey inspections make the rigs and our roads safer. It is good to reach out to an experienced truck accident lawyer. We have a broad knowledge of the trucking industry, safety issues and what to look for in a truck accident lawsuit. You can reach out to John or Kate Feroleto at Feroletolaw for confidential answers to truck accident questions. 716-854-0700
