Top 11 Tips to Survive a Roadside Inspection

Regardless of how long you’ve been an owner-operator or a carrier, if your truck is old or new, no matter what lanes you run, there will come a time when you are waved in for a roadside inspection conducted by a DOT inspector.

First, take a deep breath, and don’t panic. It can be easy to get worked up over a process that takes you off the road and could end in citations, but try to remember that EVERYONE gets inspected, typically every year.

With some preparation and patience, it’s possible to reduce the number and the duration of roadside walk-arounds that turn into full-fledged Level I under-the-truck inspections.

This article walks through how you can prepare for and pass roadside inspections.

What is a DOT inspection?

A Department of Transportation (DOT) inspection is a safety check of commercial vehicles so they meet federal regulations. These inspections are conducted by certified DOT inspectors to ensure you are operating safely, meeting compliance requirements, and reducing accidents. DOT inspections are conducted on all commercial vehicles that weigh over 10,000 pounds.

Refer to these 11 tips to fully prepare for a DOT roadside inspection and avoid citations.

Here are 11 tips to increase your chances of getting back on the road quickly and without a citation.

1. Always perform a DVIR.

Having a quick Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Roadside Inspection is only one reason you should be performing regular pre-trip inspections every time you hit the road. Follow a Driver’s Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR) to make sure you’re checking off all the right boxes on your truck. This includes checking your battery, brakes, clutch, defrost, exhaust, horn, lights, mirrors, safety equipment, tires, and windows, just to name a few. Attention to detail in this process will pay off during a typical roadside inspection, not to mention it’s just a safer way to roll.

2. Review the Annual Vehicle Inspection Report.

Regularly review the FMCSA’s Annual Vehicle Inspection Report, especially before your area’s Department of Transportation (DOT) inspection period every summer. This report details all the same items that will be checked if you get waved in for a Level I roadside inspection.

3. Keep your truck clean.

Keep your truck, tires, wheels, and interior as clean as you can. Many drivers believe this is the key to a speedy inspection because it lets the inspector know that you’re responsible and detail-oriented. Plus, it keeps everything visible, so the DOT inspector can perform a quick walkaround.

4. Know where your emergency supplies are.

Make sure you always know where your roadside emergency warning triangles and the fire extinguisher are at all times. This will help you in a variety of situations, but also during a roadside inspection.

5. Don’t rush it.

If you get waved in for a closer look after a roadside inspection, don’t be in a rush. Pull in slowly, follow the signs, and carefully watch for foot traffic in the inspection area. You don’t want to make an inspector angry by being inpatient.

6. No radar detectors.

The FMCSR doesn’t allow radar detectors, so don’t have one in your cab, period.

7. Make sure Droolius Caesar is secure.

Do you travel with a dog? The first thing to do once you get parked is to put them in a secure dog carrier, especially if they’re aggressive or skittish. Not only does this help the inspector do their job, it keeps your dog safe from traffic while you’re hunched over your paperwork and talking to the DOT inspector.

8. Admit to any known problems.

Be upfront about any problems that may cause further inspection. Some drivers report that an inspector may waive the citations if you’ve demonstrated that you know about the issue, discovered it recently, and are making steps to get it fixed as soon as possible.

9. Know how to work your ELD.

The inspector will need to see your ELD logs, so make sure you know how to email your e-logs to the inspector. Understanding how your ELD works and helping the inspector find what they need will speed up the entire process and get you back on the road.

10. Have your documents in order.

Make sure you have your documentation organized and in order, ideally in a binder or folder that you can easily access. You will need:

• Driver’s license
• Registration
• Vehicle insurance
• Medical Examiner’s Certificate
• Record of Duty Status
• Annual inspection records
• Hazardous materials paperwork
• IFTA card
• Permit credentials

11. Carry extra equipment for securing loads.

Always have plenty of equipment with you for securing loads. Incorrectly secured loads are one of the most frequently reported problems at roadside inspections. If you run into a snag in this area, some inspectors may simply have you tighten up a few things and send you on your way, as opposed to writing you a citation. You’ll never be sorry that you went the extra mile to carry extra tarps and straps.

The best possible advice for passing an FMCSA Roadside Inspection is to be prepared.

During an FMCSR Level I Roadside Inspection, there are some common equipment problems that lead to delays, citations, or an out-of-service (OOS) order. Create a habit of prioritizing the following items every day, and you’ll thank yourself later.

• Brakes that are out of adjustment or other brake problems
• Tires that are under-inflated or too worn
• Securing of the load
• Damage to lights
• Windshield damage or obstruction
• Oil leaks

What happens if you fail a DOT inspection?

It depends on the severity of the violation. Issues like incomplete log books or paperwork are recorded but might not require immediate action. Infractions such as driving without a valid CDL, exceeding hours of service, or operating an unsafe vehicle are more serious and can result in more dire consequences.

If you fail a roadside inspection because your vehicle is found to violate safety regulations, it can be put out of service until the issues are addressed and resolved. You might also face penalties, fines, or driver disqualification. DOT violations are recorded and can negatively impact your driving record, your reputation, and your business.

If you disagree with the DOT inspector, you can submit a challenge through the FMCSA. You can also request a review, but make sure and come with supporting documentation to prove your case.

So do your due diligence, have your ducks in a row, and drive safe out there. Your livelihood depends on it!

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