The Pre-Trip Checklist
Vehicle Inspection
- Tire pressure and condition
- Brakes and brake lights
- Headlights, taillights, and turn signals
- Windshield wipers and fluid levels
- Fluid levels (e.g., oil, coolant, and brake fluid)
- Emergency equipment (e.g., spare tire, jack, and lug wrench)
Valid Documentation
- Driver’s license
- Vehicle registration and insurance
- Company identification or badges
Route Planning and Emergency Kit
Plan the route in advance and ensure employees are familiar with the itinerary. Consider using GPS or navigation apps for real-time traffic updates and to avoid delays. Encourage employees to keep a basic emergency kit in the vehicle, including first-aid supplies, flashlight and extra batteries, roadside flares or warning triangles, and basic tools for minor repairs.
Safety Belt and Seating
Remind employees to always wear their seatbelts and ensure all passengers do the same. Also, stress the importance of adjusting the driver’s seat, steering wheel, and mirrors for comfort and visibility.
During the Trip Checklist
- Avoid Distractions: Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents.
- Speed Limits and Traffic Rules: Emphasize the importance of obeying speed limits and following all traffic rules.
- Safe Following Distance: Maintain a safe following distance to prevent rear-end collisions.
- Weather Conditions: Adapt to weather conditions for safe driving.
Post-Trip Checklist
- Vehicle Cleanliness: Maintain a clean and uncluttered vehicle for safety.
- Reporting: Prompt reporting of incidents, accidents, or mechanical issues is essential.
Implementing and reinforcing a driving safety checklist for all employees on work-related trips is a fundamental step in prioritizing safety and reducing the risk of accidents. This not only protects lives but also ensures compliance with regulations, minimizes downtime, manages reputation, saves costs, enhances employee morale, and cultivates a safety culture. Incorporating these checklists as standard operating procedures and providing regular training and reminders will make them a part of your company’s culture, promoting safety on the road as an investment in your employees and your company’s future.
Patrick M. is Editorial Director for the always expanding DriveSafe Online library of courses. With over two decades of experience developing award-winning training, he now focuses on innovating online driver safety training. Pulling from his background in journalism, he steers the wheel behind the creation of top-tier content that promotes a better journey—whether on the digital highway of learning or the real roads we travel every day.