What to Expect During a DOT
Inspection
No
matter where you’re headed, DOT inspections are common for truck
drivers. From the Level I inspection through Level VI, you have to be
prepared and able to tackle all questions that will arise during the
entire process. Knowing what to expect from a DOT inspection, could
ease the worries of truck drivers, no matter where they are.
DOT
Inspections Levels I, II and III
As
part of the DOT inspection, the Level I Inspection includes an
examination of all your driver documents, such as driver’s license,
medical certificate and hours of service. Additionally, they’ll
inspect your seat belt, exhaust system, signals, and lights. Your
rims and wheels will be inspected as well, along with your fuel
system.
During
the Level II inspection, officials are going to inspect everything,
included in the Level I inspection, however, they’ll also perform a
more thorough inspection of your truck, which includes a
comprehensive search for anything that seems out of order.
When
it’s time for the Level III inspection, rest assured it’ll only
include you. During the Level III inspection, the official will
thoroughly inspect your driver’s license along with your medical
certification. He’ll also inspect your daily log to check for
errors or inaccuracies.
DOT
Inspections Levels IV, V, and VI
During
the Level IV of a DOT inspection, those items that were previously in
violation, are going to be inspected. These examinations are
scheduled and are sometimes used to settle a claim that has been
reported about the truck. Typically, this only happens once, and it
requires the services of an inspector, who will take a closer look at
the one or more items in question.
If
you are stopped for a Level V inspection, everything that was
inspected during Level I is going to be inspected again, with one
notable change, you, the driver, is not going to be present during
the inspection. While the official is completing the inspection of
the tractor-trailer, along with your documents, you’ll be waiting
for the end of the inspection, away from your truck.
Lastly,
you can only be eligible for a Level VI inspection, if you carry
radiological shipments. These dangerous items must obey certain
regulations, which will be checked by an expert during a DOT
inspection to ensure you’re obeying these directives.
Whether
you have to undergo a Level I or a Level V inspection, knowing what
to expect can ease the situation, making you more prepared for what
is about to happen. Visit your local auto repair center and ensure
your vehicle is ready for a complete DOT inspection.
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