According to a survey by Fleet Risk Management software specialist CameraMatics, most HGV drivers in the UK and Ireland do not carry out regular walkround checks, even though they should be part of every driver’s pre journey routine.

CameraMatics surveyed over 500 UK and Ireland-based drivers asking how often they carry out daily walkaround checks. Somewhat shockingly almost 40% (39.3%) of drivers responded, ‘I never do checks’, with a further 15.8% saying they rarely completed checks. So, over half of those surveyed (55.1%) do not regularly carry out the walkaround checks, which are their personal responsibility. Just 29.4% of drivers said they always completed checks, with 15.5% saying they usually did them.

Completing daily checks means drivers and fleet operators are constantly aware of, and up to date with, the state of their vehicle(s). The Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) say that 85% of lorry defects can be picked up during a walkaround check. Very often these defects can be quickly and inexpensively solved; but leaving the depot with a defective vehicle is storing up trouble, putting the driver, the operator and other road users at risk.

Although most vehicles on our roads are safe, sadly there are many which are a liability. In 2019, the DVSA caught 38,712 serious defects and traffic offences on UK roads. Many of these led to fines, prosecutions and other sanctions. Many could have been avoided with a simple check. Inspectors and enforcement personnel will also demand evidence of regular checks to prove they have been adequately carried out.

While not all defects are as bad as those in the DVSA Inspectors’ ‘dishonours list’, driving a defective or unsafe HGV can have serious consequences. Drivers can receive an unlimited fine and even a prison sentence for using an HGV in a dangerous condition. Clearly, vehicles in such a state have not been checked regularly and will require significant and expensive repairs.

For drivers who change between vehicles, something as simple as checking and recording the height of a vehicle means avoiding being one of around 2,000 bridge strikes each year. Checking tyres makes dangerous blowouts less likely and checking fluids minimises breakdown risk.

How can operators ensure checks are carried out?

There are many tools and systems to ensure drivers understand the importance of checks and take responsibility for completing them to a high standard. There is also a responsibility for operators to ensure systems are in place for defect reporting and rectification. All responsible HGV operators will want their drivers to be in the ‘I always complete checks’ category.

In the event of an accident, incident, or being pulled over by an enforcement agency, evidence of adequate walkaround vehicle checks will be sought and lack of evidence could also lead to insurance issues in the event of a claim. In these circumstances, both the driver and the operator can be liable.

Photo:  The DVSA say that 85% of lorry defects can be picked up during a walkaround check.