
Required Maintenance
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has regulations for truck inspections, maintenance, and repairs that trucking companies and drivers must follow. Companies are required to:
- Systematically inspect, repair, and maintain all trucks within their control
- Conduct a pre-trip inspection to ensure safe condition of both the truck and loaded content
- Review and sign the last vehicle inspection report and verify that any needed repairs were completed
- Complete an end-of-the-day inspection and prepare a written report that documents any discovered defect or deficiency
Truck companies are also prohibited from operating a truck in any condition that is likely to cause an accident or result in the truck breaking down. These vehicles must be marked with an “out of service” sticker and cannot be operated until all repairs are made and the sticker is removed.