What should a driver do if they notice a defect during a pre-trip inspection?

When a driver notices a defect during a pre-trip inspection, the best course of action is to report it immediately and take corrective action. This practice is essential for ensuring the safety of the driver, passengers, and other road users. A pre-trip inspection is designed to identify potential issues that could lead to mechanical failures or unsafe conditions while on the road.

By reporting the defect and addressing it before departure, the driver minimizes the risk of accidents caused by equipment failure, which can lead to severe consequences. This proactive approach not only upholds safety standards but also complies with regulatory requirements that mandate commercial vehicles be in safe operating condition before they are driven. Therefore, addressing defects is a critical responsibility of the driver to maintain both safety and compliance within commercial vehicle operations.