Pre-trip Inspection
Tip Sheet
Tips for Employees and Volunteers If you are driving to your assignment in your own vehicle or the nonprofit’s vehicle:
- Make certain the vehicle is well-maintained and key safety equipment is working as intended (the headlights and brake lights work, the wiper blades clean — not smear — the horn honks, the brakes slow and stop the vehicle, and tires have treads)
- Check that the gas tank is filled at least half way.
- Keep the doors locked.
- Keep the windows rolled up whenever possible.
- Adjust your driving speed to weather conditions (slippery surface, poor visibility, bridges that freeze before roadways).
- Watch roads. In urban areas, check for potholes, dark unlit areas, broken glass and debris, dead ends and roadblocks. In rural areas, watch for narrow, winding roads with no shoulder, animals in the roadway, and unpaved roads.
- Seasonal issues: flooding streams; avalanches of snow, rocks or mud; or amorous animals (moose, deer, and elk) lured to the roadway.
- Keep your car in gear while waiting at traffic signals and stop signs. If approached or threatened, honk your horn and drive off.
- Drive in the lane closest to the center of the road to give yourself maneuvering room.
- Leave enough space between your car and the car in front to permit you to go around it quickly, if necessary.
