interesting read about DOT inspections

I have gotten out of so many that I cannot even count them. Even when I knew I had an issue and they let it go. I am always easy going with them, even if I am in a hurry I joke with them and act like I have all day, which in fact, if they want to push the issue I do lol.
But one big thing that many look for as a sign of a truck to inspect is a dirty dashboard. I see all these trucks where the driver piles all kinds up crap on the dash, and they are just asking for an inspection. No way they keep things up if they cannot even keep the dash clean.

 

Dash? I think the word you were looking for is "dashcan".

TA

 

Can't remember where I was but they were pulling everyone across the scales. I could see the driver in front of me handing the lady cop his log book then he went on his way. I pull up and she asks if my log book is up to date. I said F*** no, I haven't filled it out in a month. She said GET OUT OF HERE!

 

This is common sense to me before I even got into the industry... I've been pulled over twice in the past 3 years in my personal vehicle. I've not had a ticket for almost a decade. (I got my license at age 16, I'm now 27.)

Attitude goes a long way... Be honest (it actually does work), be kind, be polite and just overall good.

I know this is about inspections though. And I haven't had one, yet. Anyone mind enlightening me as to what all happens? I read some of it in the linked article, but I'm curious the other end.

 

This is one that was put up earlier this month. It shows what happens when you go into a Florida scale. Do not remember if it was posted on the forums or not.
They can do it several ways, depending on the state, if it is at a scale or pullover, and just based on how the inspector wants to do things. Most of the inspections are paperwork and a walk around. They will thump tires, glance at air lines, look at lights and go over your log and other papers.
If they find something, or just want to do a level 1. They will then go into a full inspection. This can include chocking the tires and checking all brakes, lines, and for leaks and chaffing. You will not get these as often, but they do happen.

 

I haven't been DOT'd in over a year. Last one was a level 3, just paperwork all was good and I was on my way. No Violations, can't address Elog since I'm on paper.

I've had 3 California level 1's over the years. There, you're pulled inside over a lighted floor, your paperwork goes to one officer another gets on a creeper and goes under the T&T checking EVERYTHING. You'll be instructed to what they want you to do. Unless there's an issue, you'll probably never get out of the cab.

Advice: Be polite but not to the point of licking their boots. DON'T volunteer any info unless asked for it, you're trying to keep this visit as brief as possible.

NO, a clean rig is not a guarantee to get a pass through. My buddy has a show quality outfit. He was EB on I 10 at Lordsburg around 02:00. Two reefers from Fresno blew by him one with a headlight out, they went through right before him and breezed through. Him,,,, level 1 in the shed, CVSA stickers T&T and out the door. He asked,, "Why did you give those guys a pass and pull me in?" Reply,, " It was just your turn and we needed another truck for the shift".

 

Attitude will work Wonders with a DOT Officer. I was getting a Level 1 at Truckee in 99 in my Midroof Century at the time. DOT guy goes is there anyway you can show me how to get under these things Easier so we can speed these up. I went sure he goes you do YOUR getting a set of Stickers. I showed him how to remove the Drivers side fairing off the steps. 2 Mins later Without him Looking at my Logbook my BOL permits anything I was going down the road with a pair of CVSA stickers. Meanwhile the England driver and trainee that had been giving his Partner a hard time where Still having their Truck taken apart for their Inspection.

 

And those drivers keep crying about how mistreated they are and act as if all drivers get treated that way, and don't have a clue that a lot of the problems they're dealing with are unique only to them for the most part You make your own "luck" and you get back what you dish out.

 

Should have said, which one...