Vehicle Checks
The final topic in this section relates to common-sense precautions that a driver should take before driving an unfamiliar vehicle.
The law requires that each vehicle has one documented walk round check every day when in use. Just because this check has been performed by someone else does not necessarily mean that the vehicle is safe to drive. A driver owes it to themselves to check every vehicle before they use it.
Conduct a walk around check – tell the examiner that this is what you plan to do and start to conduct a check. In most cases the examiner will prevent you from doing the full check as this is covered in detail in part five of the test. If the examiner wants you to conduct your full check at this time then make sure to use your checklist.
Check the cab interior and controls, including any warning indicators – this is often referred to as a ‘cockpit check’. Don’t forget to describe what you are doing to the examiner – instruments, seat belts, controls, windscreen, mirror adjustment etc.
Check fuel levels – it is important that the vehicle have enough fuel to at least reach a place where more can be added. Once again tell the examiner that you are checking the fuel level. You may wish to add that, if it seems that the gauges are inaccurate, it would be possible to dip the tank to check the level.
Check that the height indicator is correct – if the vehicle has fixed bodywork then the stated height will be accurate. If the vehicle is an articulated combination then the indicator should be checked against the height stated on the trailer.
Check the width and weight of the vehicle – the driver should check the total laden weight of their vehicle by reference to their paperwork so as not to infringe any weight limits on their route; they should also check the width of the vehicle.