What to Know About Post-Trip Inspections for Commercial Trucks
A commercial truck must be roadworthy. Federal regulations require many truckers to conduct a post-trip inspection to ensure that their vehicle meets safety standards. If they fail to do so, that could potentially lay the groundwork for a catastrophic collision. Here, our West Palm Beach trucking accident attorney provides a guide to post-trip inspection requirements and truck accident claims in Florida.
What is a Post-Trip Inspection?
In the context of commercial trucking, a post-trip inspection is a federally required safety review conducted by a truck driver at the end of each driving day. It is designed to identify and report any defects or deficiencies that could affect the safe operation of the vehicle or result in a mechanical breakdown. The inspection helps ensure that necessary repairs are made as soon as possible.
An Overview of Federal Truck Safety Regulations
Under 49 CFR 396.11 of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs), every driver of a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) that operates in interstate commerce must prepare a Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR) at the end of each day’s work. The regulation applies to tractor trailers. It is designed to promote safety and accountability in maintenance. The report must cover any condition that would affect the safe operation of the vehicle or result in a mechanical failure. If no defects are found, the driver may note that in the report. Here are some of the specific things that must be inspected as part of the post-trip commercial truck review:
- Service Brakes: Truckers must check for air leaks, worn brake pads, and proper operation of the service brake system. To be clear, this includes the trailer’s brakes as well.
- Parking Brake: Truckers must confirm the parking brake engages and holds the vehicle stationary. Doing so is especially important for inclines.
- Steering Mechanism: Truckers must also inspect the steering mechanism for loose parts, leaks, or issues that affect maneuverability.
- Lighting Devices/Reflectors: Truckers should ensure that all headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and reflective devices are functional and clean.
- Tires: Tires are a critical safety feature. Truckers must examine for proper inflation, tread depth, and visible damage like cuts or bulges.
- Horn: Truckers must also test the horn to confirm it works effectively to alert other drivers or pedestrians.
- Windshield Wipers: Truckers must verify blades are intact and wipers operate smoothly for adequate visibility in bad weather.
- Rearview Mirrors: Truckers must confirm that the mirrors are clean, properly adjusted, and free of cracks or damage.
- Coupling Devices: Truckers must also inspect the connections between tractor and trailer for secure locking and wear.
- Emergency Equipment: Finally, truckers must ensure the presence of required safety items such as fire extinguishers, warning triangles, and spare fuses.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our West Palm Beach Truck Accident Attorney Today
At Pike & Lustig, LLP, our West Palm Beach semi-truck accident lawyer provides highly skilled, justice-focused advocacy to injured victims. If you or your loved one was hurt in a crash caused by a non-roadworthy commercial truck that was not properly inspected, we can help. Call us now for a free, no obligation initial consultation. From our West Palm Beach office and our Miami office, our team takes on truck accident injury claims throughout all of South Florida.
