Getting ready to drive anywhere has become so routine that it often requires no thought. You lock your front door, unlock the car, put on your seatbelt, start it up and leave. However, getting into any vehicle is putting yourself at a potential risk. If even the most straightforward thing goes wrong, you may be in a car accident.
Though the rental trucks here at Summit Fleet are maintained regularly, there are some precautionary steps to take prior to driving that’ll leave you better off being safe than sorry.
By following this simple pre drive checklist each day before heading onto the open road, you are keeping yourself and the occupants of your truck free from harm.
Do a Walk Around Outside Your Vehicle
Before stepping inside your vehicle, a simple precautionary check around the outside of your vehicle can save you a ton of time and danger for yourself and others.
- Make sure tires are properly inflated
- Walk around the vehicle to check for small objects, animals and children that might be around. You might not see them from the driver’s seat.
- Check for scratches or other signs of an accident (80% of bumpers get scratched while parked)
- Check the headlights, tail lights, brake lights, windshield and windows for dirt and grime that may affect your visibility.
- Lastly, check for any fluid leakage underneath or around the vehicle
Make Sure Your Vehicle is Ready to Drive From the Inside
Making necessary adjustments from the inside of your vehicle will ensure a smooth drive and lessen the chances of any accidents from occurring.
- Adjust your seat and headrest to the proper and comfortable position. Rear-end crashes happen every 17 seconds in the U.S., and maintaining proper headrest positions prevents whiplash.
- Adjust your side view and rear view mirrors to minimize blind spots as much as possible.
- Fasten your seat belt and ensure all passengers have theirs on as well.
- Check for fuel level, oil pressure, and any warning lights.
- Lastly, buckle up. Seat Belts reduce the risk of fatal injuries by 45-50%.
Driver Readiness and Last Tips
Now that the outside and inside of the vehicle is ready, there’s one last safety check to ensure a safe and comfortable ride. Driver readiness may seem like common sense, but we’re here to remind you of a few reasons to check in on yourself to ensure safety for yourself and everyone else around you.
- Making sure you’re alert, focused, and calm. If you’re drowsy, consider pulling over or delaying your journey. Yours and others’ safety are a priority.
- Before driving off, be sure to lock your vehicle doors, keep a foot on your brake, release the parking brake, signal intention, and see a clear path before moving along.
If you’re making sure to prepare and check everything from the inside and out of your vehicle to your own readiness to drive, you’re setting yourself up for a successful and safe drive. Want to learn more about driver safety, risk mitigation and other fleet news? Head to our blog to learn more.
