DOT Inspections
Schedule Your Annual Federal DOT Inspection in Decatur IL
Stay on top of your federally required DOT semi-truck inspection with a yearly appointment at Decatur Trailer Sales & Service. Our mechanics will ensure you’re meeting federal guidelines and flag any repairs you might need before hitting the road. Our average inspection takes about 30 minutes. If your rig fails to pass the DOT inspection, we’re ready to make any repairs needed to bring it back into compliance. We’ll ensure you’re ready for the road from brakes and wipers to harness wiring and other electrical elements. Not familiar with the inspection process? Don’t worry, our team is here to help you every step. Call ahead to schedule your DOT Inspection.
What is a DOT Inspection?
DOT, an acronym for the U.S. Department of Transportation, requires regular inspections of commercial trucks and vehicles for maximized road safety. Commercial vehicles, including semi-trucks and trailers, have intricate builds and driving systems that must pass a yearly inspection to be considered safe for the road. At Decatur Trailer Sales & Service, we specialize in DOT inspections for commercial trucks to ensure you and your equipment are prepared for long-distance hauls.
The 6 Levels of Truck Inspections
Six levels of inspections can be performed on your commercial vehicle by a certified officer or industry professional. Whether you have been stopped by a state trooper or have a mechanic from our shop inspect your rig, it’s important to ensure your truck or trailer is updated on current DOT laws and regulations. Here are the size levels of a DOT truck inspection that every driver should know.
What to Expect During a Roadside Check
If you happen to get pulled over while on the road, a DOT officer or state trooper will likely check your vehicle to ensure it is up to the DOT’s standards. While it can be intimidating, it’s important to remain calm and professional while providing the necessary paperwork and vehicle access to approve the stopped check. Our mechanics recommend having all your documentation in a folder or envelope that can be easily accessed from the driver’s side and up-to-date knowledge of your vehicle’s condition. A state trooper will likely ask you when your last inspection was and whether or not you passed.
The Most Common DOT Violations for Drivers & Vehicles
When driving a commercial vehicle, a state trooper or certified DOT officer can pull you over at the slightest suspicion that the vehicle isn’t operating safely. Semi-trucks and trailers are one of the largest moving vehicles on the road and can pose a threat to you and others if not taken care of properly. At Decatur Trailer Sales & Service, we’ve put together a list of the most common DOT violations we see from our customers so they know what to expect if they’re stopped.
Drivers
- Logging Violations
- No Medical Card or It’s Expired
- Invalid or Expired License
- Not Wearing a Seat Belt
- Exceeding HOS Laws
- Speeding or Reckless Driving
Vehicles
- Inoperable Lights
- Tire Tread Depth Below 2/32 of an Inch
- Oil, Grease, Transmission Fluid or Fuel Leaks
- No Current Annual Inspection on File
- Improperly Loaded Cargo
- Discharged or Unsecured Fire Extinguisher
