1. Check the tires for proper inflation and tread depth.
Make sure that the tires are properly inflated and have enough tread depth to safely travel on the road. Tires that are not properly inflated can cause a loss of control, and tires with too little tread depth can lead to a blowout.
2. Inspect the brakes for wear and damage.
Inspect the brakes for any signs of wear or damage. Worn brakes can lead to a loss of braking power, which can be dangerous. Damaged brakes may need to be repaired or replaced before driving.
3. Look under the truck for leaks or damage.
Look under the truck for any leaks or damage that may have occurred. Leaks can cause problems with the truck's performance, and damage can lead to further problems down the road.
4. Check all fluid levels, including engine oil, brake fluid, and power steering fluid.
Make sure that all of the truck's fluid levels are within safe parameters. Low levels of oil or other fluids can cause serious engine problems, and low brake fluid levels can lead to a loss of braking power.
5. Make sure all lights and reflectors are in good condition.
Check all of the truck's lights and reflectors to make sure they are in good condition. Signs that a light needs attention include blinking or dimming headlights, taillights that are out, or red reflectors that are not visible from behind the truck.
6. Test the horn, signals, and wipers/wipers fluid.
Test all of the truck's bells and whistles to make sure they are in good working order. This includes testing the horn, turning on the turn signals, and using the wipers/wiper fluid. If anything is not working properly, it should be fixed before taking the truck on a trip.
7. Check the cargo area for secure loads and proper tie-downs.
Inspect the cargo area to make sure that all loads are properly secured and that there are no loose items that could become a hazard while driving. All tie-downs should be in good condition, and no items should be blocking the view from the cab.
8. Look inside of the cab for cleanliness and any potential safety hazards
Take a look around the inside of the truck's cab to ensure that it is clean and free of any potential safety hazards. This includes making sure there is nothing blocking the view from the windshield, that all switches and buttons are within easy reach, and that there are no loose items on the floor.