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When pre-vehicle checks saved HGV drivers

June 28, 2023

Pre-vehicle checks are an essential part of being an HGV driver. They are designed to identify any potential issues or defects with the vehicle before it is driven on the road, helping to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of the driver and other road users. Here are some examples of when pre-vehicle checks saved HGV drivers from harm:

  1. Brake failure: During a pre-vehicle check, a HGV driver noticed that the brake pedal felt spongy, indicating a potential issue with the brakes. Upon further inspection, it was discovered that the brake pads were worn and needed to be replaced. If the driver had not noticed this issue during the pre-vehicle check, it could have led to brake failure on the road, putting the driver and other road users in danger.
  2. Tyre blowout: During a pre-vehicle check, a HGV driver noticed that one of the tyres on the vehicle had a bulge, indicating a potential issue with the tyre. The driver replaced the tyre before setting off on the journey. If the tyre had not been replaced and had suffered a blowout, a serious accident could have been caused.
  3. Fuel leak: During a pre-vehicle check, an HGV driver noticed a small fuel leak under the vehicle. The driver immediately reported the issue to the maintenance team, who repaired the leak. If the driver had not noticed the fuel leak during the pre-vehicle check, it could have led to a fire or explosion on the road.
  4. Electrical fault: During a pre-vehicle check, an HGV driver noticed that the vehicle’s headlights were not working. Further inspection revealed an electrical fault that needed to be repaired. If the driver had not noticed the issue during the pre-vehicle check and had driven the vehicle at night, it could have led to a serious accident due to poor visibility.

These examples demonstrate the importance of pre-vehicle checks in preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of HGV drivers and other road users. By taking the time to perform a thorough pre-vehicle check before setting off on a journey, HGV drivers can identify and address potential issues before they become serious safety hazards.