A professional driver’s involvement is key when it comes to a successful preventive maintenance program. Drivers are often the first to notice a problem or issue and can have it repaired before it becomes one that can cause a breakdown or accident.
Driver responsibility – The driver is ultimately responsible for the safe operating condition of his/her vehicle. He/she can do the following to help keep his/her vehicle’s components in good working order:
* Be proficient in detecting maintenance & repair needs and refer them to the correct place for handling;
* Be expert at doing good pre-trip and post -trip inspections, making sure all pertinent components are checked with each inspection;
* Be certain that an annual vehicle inspection has been conducted on the vehicle;
* Stop to check out any potential problems that may be developing with the vehicle.
The driver shouldn’t continue with his/her trip until he/she is satisfied that everything is in good operating condition and it’s safe to do so. Federal and state regulations state that a driver may not drive a vehicle unless he/she is satisfied that it is in safe operating condition.
Source: JJKellerLibrary.com