Most truck drivers dread their annual DOT inspection and we here at Midlane Truck & Trailer Repair don’t blame them. Here’s the thing, though: If you and your rig are in good shape, you’ll pass it with flying colors. We can’t help you stay in shape but we can make sure your rig is good shape. In fact, we can do the inspection. Are you ready for your Level 1 DOT inspection? Here’s what you need to know.
Your Inspection
The Department of Transportation doesn’t just inspect trucks; they inspect drivers, too, to ensure they are healthy and have a record of safe driving. When they inspect you, they look at your alcohol consumption and drug use, they inspect your daily driving logs, they require an Hours of Service document, a certificate from your doctor confirming your good health, and whether you wear your seat belt when you’re behind the wheel. Why? Because they must ensure truck drivers are safe on the road.
Your Truck
A DOT inspector will also give your rig a thorough once-over to make certain it will be safe on the road. A Level 1 DOT inspection looks at your semi-truck’s
- Brakes
- Coupling devices
- Exhaust
- Fuel system
- Inspection reports
- Lamps – all rig lamps and lights
- Safe loading capabilities
- Steering
- Suspension
- Tires
- Truck frame
- Turn signals
- Van and open-top trailer bodies
- Wheels and rims
- Windshield wipers
If you drive a hazmat hauler, the inspection will also include inspecting all hazardous materials requirements to ensure you and your rig are in compliance. In this case, the inspector will need to see your shipping papers.
Before Your Inspection
There are some things you can do prior to your inspection to ensure you pass it. We can help with these items if you’d like or you can do them yourself. Before your DOT inspection
- Walk around your rig to visually inspect for damage
- Check all of your rig’s lights
- Check for damaged parts inside your engine, such as a cracked water pump or loose air compressor pump
- Check your tires and visually inspect your brake system
- Make sure the inside of the cab is a-okay
- Test the vehicle’s horn
Basically, you are looking for anything that might catch the inspector’s eye.
Located in Eugene, OR, Midlane Truck & Trailer Repair can get your rig ready for the DOT inspection, and an extra set of eyes might be a good thing to catch things you might have missed. Call us today.
