Improve Fleet Safety With Vehicle Inspection History
43% of the roads in the U.S. have poor or mediocre quality.
This fact raises a concern.
While as fleet managers, owners, and drivers, you cannot repair the roads, you can keep your vehicles in perfect condition. You can ensure regular maintenance, which will help your fleet vehicles run smoothly on the roughest of terrains.
One of the easiest ways to do it is by scheduling maintenance and monitoring the vehicle inspection history. This small step is immensely significant and is included in the Code of Federal Regulation. According to section 395.13 of this code, the drivers must check these before driving the fleet or vehicle:
- The Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) must be safe to drive.
- Review the vehicle inspection report given by the last driver.
- Only sign the report if the driver fixes the problems mentioned in the report and has the necessary certifications to prove it.
There are several other factors that you must know about inspection history and vehicle maintenance. So, let’s get started.
What is Vehicle Inspection History?
Vehicle inspection history refers to a documented record of all inspections conducted on a particular vehicle over time. Keeping track of a vehicle’s history helps fleet managers see patterns and ensure it gets the essential maintenance and repairs. When fleet managers tell drivers their CMVs are in good shape, drivers feel better about driving them.
When fleet managers update and share the inspection history of your vehicles, it streamlines how you manage a big-sized fleet. Drivers can check out the maintenance details, trust their rides more, and give a nod to the inspection report before they begin their work.
What if you could have all this info in one place? It will be beneficial in cases of an unexpected occurrence like accidents. Plus, when you maintain this vehicle inspection report, it shows everyone you are serious about safety and reliability, which is a big win for shippers. This step ultimately enhances your reputation as a reliable fleet owner.
Is it Important to Maintain Vehicle Inspection History?
Regular fleet inspections contribute to the safety of the drivers and fellow drivers. It decreases the chances of accidents or roadside breakdowns. Skilled mechanics and drivers identify worn parts, loose mechanisms, or missing screws during these checks.
Primary advantages of consistent vehicle inspections include:
1. Lower risk of accidents and breakdowns.
2. Enhanced overall fleet safety.
3. Increased driver confidence.
4. Cost savings through on-site maintenance instead of roadside repairs.
5. Adherence to federal and local regulations.
6. Reduced liability.
7. Defense against potential legal actions in case of an accident.
8. Prolonged lifespan of vehicles.
5 Ways to Improve Vehicle Safety by Inspection History
Opting for a reliable automatic documentation model like Matrack helps in smooth maintenance. We have listed five ways in which it helps enhance vehicle safety.
Penalty fines
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires regular fleet inspections. Go through the complete list of mechanics and vehicle parts that need inspection, the frequency of these inspections, and the necessary documentation.
It is essential because non-compliance with these rules results in hefty fines and penalties. These records prove that the fleet managers have regularly maintained and inspected vehicles to meet FMCSA regulations.
Inspectors can ask you to show evidence of vehicle maintenance at roadside checkpoints. Being able to access this information quickly saves time and reduces your company’s liability in case of an accident.
Reduce accidents
Even if you prioritize vehicle maintenance and inspections, accidents may still happen within your company’s fleet. While focusing on driver training and safety is vital, we all know how accidents occur unexpectedly. Hence, you risk liability due to potential negligence without proper documentation of inspections.
Following an accident, authorities will ask for proof of vehicle inspections to confirm the vehicle’s condition. With readily available and accurate documentation, mitigating liability and potential fines from an accident is easier.
Improves vehicle condition
Regular vehicle check-ups keep your trucks from going on the road with old and worn-out parts. If managers neglect to ensure the replacement of these parts, it will cause other truck components to wear out faster and shorten the life of your fleet.
Finding and fixing problems early helps your fleets work better, saving fleet owners money. Fixing issues quickly and making sure your trucks perform well means you get the most value out of your investment while keeping your drivers safe.
Enhances driver accountability and awareness
Fleet managers may choose a reliable automatic documentation system like Matrack to empower drivers to actively take responsibility for the vehicle’s condition. Through detailed inspection records, drivers become aware of their vehicle’s health.
This awareness motivates them to report any issues promptly. Such a heightened sense of accountability minimizes the possibility of accidents and nurtures a collaborative safety culture within your fleet.
Moreover, when drivers are actively involved in the maintenance process, they develop a deeper understanding of their vehicles. It fosters a sense of ownership that is highly valued.
It, in turn, leads to increased inspiration in adhering to safety protocols. How does it help? By creating a positive effect on overall fleet safety and performance.
Optimizes fuel efficiency and environmental impact
In addition to fixing mechanical issues, a detailed inspection history involves monitoring fuel-related parts and emission control systems.
Accurate records empower fleet managers to implement targeted measures for improving fuel efficiency, such as regular cleaning or timely replacement of fuel filters. It results in immediate operational cost savings and significantly reduces your fleet’s environmental footprint.
Additionally, when you optimize your fuel efficiency, you contribute to a more sustainable transportation ecosystem. It aligns with environmental regulations and corporate responsibility goals.
By actively managing fuel-related aspects, your fleet becomes more cost-effective and minimizes environmental impact. It ensures a cleaner and greener operation.
Tips on Maintaining Proper Vehicle Inspection History
- Drivers may schedule routine vehicle assessments. It ensures that primary components like brakes, tires, lights, and fluid levels undergo a thorough examination. This consistent approach detects potential issues early, which contributes to overall safety.
- Adopting digital tools by fleet managers for efficient documentation involves using software or apps that allow easy recording and storage of inspection data. It guarantees quick access, reduces paperwork, and minimizes the risk of lost or damaged records.
- Providing training on the importance of thorough inspections to drivers is essential. Also, fleet managers should have clear communication channels for drivers to report issues promptly. Establishing a standardized process ensures uniformity in recording inspection data.
- Staying informed about and adhering to relevant regulations, such as those set by the FMCSA, is critical. Understanding the specific inspection requirements for your type of vehicle and ensuring compliance helps avoid penalties and legal issues for fleet owners.
- Using the inspection history for trend analysis is essential. Fleet managers identify patterns, recurring issues, or areas that require frequent attention through this data-driven approach. It helps prevent potential breakdowns and contributes to long-term cost savings for fleet owners.
Opt For Matrack’s Inspection History Solutions
When we talk about the fleet management industry, it is essential to have a centralized maintenance system that can streamline your whole process. Thankfully, Matrack has your back!
Our ELD services offer a hassle-free experience. Enjoy a free device starting at $19.95/month with no contracts. Some of our main highlights would be tax filing automation and DOT inspection mode.
With live customer support and real-time alerts, Matrack keeps you compliant and confident. Co-driver support, lifetime warranty, and GPS tracking add value. Simplify ELD integration and device installation while you enjoy features like HOS tracking, DVIRs, and fleet management.
Doesn’t it sound exciting? As we discussed above, it is essential to have a proper inspection record. Choosing an affordable and reliable centralized solution that makes managing the fleet much easier.
Wrapping Up
With this blog, the ever-growing significance of maintaining vehicle inspection history is loud and clear. It improves the safety of your vehicle and ensures that your fleet lives a long life.
The statistics demonstrate a realistic aspect of the trucking industry. Vehicle inspection history will help managers optimize fuel efficiency, enhance driver accountability, maintain vehicle condition, and work on overall vehicle safety.
Choose Matrack ELD solution now to prepare the fleet for every obstacle that comes the fleet owner’s way. Book a call with us for any queries and order the device to have a worry-free experience.