5 Common Pre-Trip Inspection Mistakes That Cost You Money

A failed DOT inspection creates a ripple effect. First, there's the fine. Then, your truck is placed out of service (OOS), causing missed deliveries. Finally, your CSA score takes a hit, driving up your insurance premiums for years.

Yet, many violations are completely preventable with a solid pre-trip routine. Here are the top 5 mistakes we see drivers making—and how to fix them.

1. "Pencil Whipping" the Report

This is the most common issue. Drivers simply tick "OK" for every item without actually checking the truck. DOT officers can spot this easily—if your log shows a 5-minute pre-trip for a full combination vehicle, they know you didn't do a thorough job.

The Fix: Take at least 15 minutes. Walk around the truck. Actually touch the components.

2. Ignoring Tire Tread Depth

Tires are one of the top OOS violations. Steer tires must have 4/32” tread depth, and drive/trailer tires need 2/32”. Eyeballing it isn't enough.

The Fix: Use a tread depth gauge every morning. It takes 30 seconds and saves you a citation.

3. Forgetting the Brake Lights

It sounds simple, but how do you check your brake lights when you're sitting in the driver's seat? Many drivers skip this because they lack a spotter.

The Fix: Use a "brake buddy" tool or wedge something against the pedal. Or, back up near a wall/reflection to see the lights engage.

4. Missing Document Updates

Is your registration current? Do you have your IFTA sticker? Is your insurance card expired? Often the truck is fine, but the paperwork is not.

The Fix: Use a digital document wallet like CargoDzen to keep expiration dates handy and get alerts before documents expire.

5. Not Recording Minor Defects

Drivers often think, "It's just a small crack in the mirror, I'll fix it later." If you don't record it on the DVIR, and an officer finds it, it's a violation for falsifying the report.

The Fix: Report everything. If it's not a safety hazard, mark it as "Defect Found - No Safety Threat" so your mechanic knows, but you are legally covered.