Are Your Non-CDL Drivers Following These Steps Before Driving to a Job?

Your non-CDL light-duty vehicle drivers face tremendous risk out on the road. Other people, road conditions, and weather all create chances for serious accidents and injuries. Your drivers’ risk doesn’t stop there, though.

Your drivers also face the risk of breakdowns. Breakdowns create delays, wasted time, and unnecessary expenses for companies. Worse yet, breakdowns create unsafe conditions and situations for your employees. If you want to protect your employees, increase productivity, and improve your bottom line, share this checklist with your drivers.

Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist

1. Vehicle walk-around inspection

Before getting in the vehicle, drivers should walk around the vehicle looking for:

• Fluid leaks
• Damage to vehicle
• Tire wear and tire
• Proper tire inflation
• Damaged mirrors or lights

2. Check the engine

• Check the key engine fluids such as washer, oil, transmission, and coolant
• Check the hoses, visible wiring, and belts for obvious wear and tear

3. Interior vehicle inspection

• Inspect the inside of the vehicle checking the seatbelts and other safety equipment
• Clean out the vehicle of any trash or debris, especially debris that might pose tripping hazards or obstruct your feet while driving

4. Start the engine

• Start the engine and look for warning lights such as check engine or maintenance required
• Check when the vehicle is due for an oil change
• Make sure all of your lights are operational - turn on the headlights, four-way flashers, and interior lights
• If possible, have someone outside verifying all lights are working
• Check the windshield wipers for proper operation
• Check the heater, defroster and air conditioner
• Adjust your seat and then mirrors

These four easy steps will help ensure breakdowns can be avoided. However, perhaps most importantly, your drivers should document this process and report any problems to the maintenance staff. No driver should leave your company in an unsafe vehicle.

Safe driving starts before your drivers even leave the parking lot!