New! High Road 2.0! We have a new version of this program. You can find it here: High Road 2.0

Step 5: Perform Walk-Around Inspection (continued)

Rear of Vehicle

Lights and Reflectors:

• Rear clearance and identification lights clean, operating and proper color (red at rear).
• Reflectors clean and proper color (red at rear).
• Taillights clean, operating and proper color (red at rear).
• Right rear turn signal operating and proper color (red, yellow, or amber at rear).

License plate(s):

• Present, clean and secured.

Splash guards:

• Present, not damaged, properly fastened, not dragging on ground or rubbing tires.

Cargo secure (trucks):

• Cargo properly blocked, braced, tied, chained, etc.
• Tailboards up and properly secured.
• End gates free of damage, properly secured in stake sockets.
• Canvas or tarp (if required) properly secured to prevent tearing, billowing to block either the rearview mirrors or to cover rear lights.
• If over-length, or over-width, make sure all signs and/or additional lights/flags are safely and properly mounted and all required permits are in driverʼs possession.
• Rear doors securely closed, latched/locked.

Left side:

Check all items that are done on right side, plus:

• Battery(s) (if not mounted in engine compartment).
• Battery(s) box securely mounted to vehicle.
• Box has secure cover.
• Battery(s) secured against movement.

• Battery(s) not broken or leaking.
• Fluid in battery(s) at proper level (except maintenance-free type).
• Cell caps present and securely tightened (except maintenance-free type).
• Vents in cell caps free of foreign material (except maintenance-free type)

Step 6: Check Lights

Get In and Turn Off Lights:

• Turn off all lights.
• Turn on stop lights (apply trailer hand brake or have someone press the brake pedal).
• Turn on left turn signal lights.

Get Out and Check Lights:

• Left front turn signal light clean, operating and proper color (amber or white on signals facing the front).
• Left rear turn signal light and both stop lights clean, operating and proper color (red, yellow or amber).

Get in Vehicle:

• Turn off lights not needed for driving.
• Check for all required papers, trip manifests, permits, etc.
• Secure all loose articles in cab. (They might interfere with operation of the controls or hit you in a crash.)
• Start the engine.