Jordan Driving Theory Heavy study materials
Jordan Driving Theory Heavy study resources

Jordan Driving Theory Heavy cheat sheet

Jordan Driving Theory Heavy · Keep the key ideas within reach.

Quick reference

Traffic Law

  • Jordan drives on the right; overtaking is performed on the left except when the vehicle ahead is signalling a left turn or in slow queued traffic.

  • Legal blood alcohol limit in Jordan is 0.00% for all drivers; any detectable alcohol is a violation under the Traffic Law.

  • Seat belts are mandatory for driver and all passengers in the front and rear; children under 10 must use an appropriate restraint and may not sit in the front seat.

  • Heavy goods vehicles are generally banned from entering city centres during peak hours unless holding a municipal permit; check posted lorry time windows before routing.

  • The driver must carry a valid driving licence for the vehicle class, vehicle registration (rukhsa), and insurance certificate at all times and produce them on request.

  • Use of a handheld mobile phone while driving is prohibited; only hands-free devices are permitted.

  • At a pedestrian crossing without signals, vehicles must yield to pedestrians already on the crossing and reduce speed on approach.

  • Following an injury collision, the driver must stop, render assistance, and report to the nearest police station without delay; leaving the scene is a criminal offence.

Quick reference

Signs and Road Markings

  • Red circles with a white bar mean prohibition; blue circles mean mandatory instruction; red triangles with a white field mean warning.

  • A solid white centre line prohibits crossing or overtaking; a broken white line permits crossing when safe and the road ahead is clear.

  • Yellow kerb markings indicate no parking or stopping restrictions; check accompanying plates for times and exemptions.

  • A sign showing a lorry silhouette in a red circle bans goods vehicles above the indicated weight from that route.

  • Weight-limit signs state the maximum permissible gross vehicle weight in tonnes; the limit applies to the vehicle, not the load alone.

  • Chevron boards and black-and-white edge markers indicate sharp bends; reduce speed before entering the curve, not during it.

  • Temporary yellow road markings and orange signage override permanent markings during roadworks.

  • Stop signs require a complete halt at the stop line; give-way signs require yielding only when traffic is present.

Quick reference

Safe Driving and Defensive Driving Techniques

  • Maintain at least a 3-second following gap in dry conditions; increase to 6 seconds in rain and 9 or more on wet or icy surfaces.

  • Total stopping distance equals thinking distance plus braking distance; braking distance rises with the square of speed, so doubling speed quadruples braking distance.

  • Heavy vehicles have large blind spots on both sides, directly behind, and in front; complete mirror checks before every lane change.

  • Use the Smith System: aim high, get the big picture, keep eyes moving, leave an escape route, and make sure others see you.

  • On downgrades, select a low gear before descending and use engine braking; continuous service-brake use causes fade and loss of braking.

  • When overtaking, confirm the lane ahead is clear for the full manoeuvre, signal early, and return to the right only when the overtaken vehicle is visible in the mirror.

  • In fog, reduce speed, use low beam or fog lamps, and increase the following gap; do not use high beam, which reflects back off the fog.

  • At roundabouts, yield to traffic already circulating and signal your exit; large vehicles may need to occupy more than one lane.

Quick reference

Vehicle Controls

  • The clutch pedal must be fully depressed to start a manual vehicle and released progressively to avoid stalling or jerking under load.

  • Retarder or exhaust brake controls are engaged on long descents to supplement service brakes without overheating them.

  • Splitter and range-change gears must only be shifted with the clutch depressed and the vehicle at the correct speed range.

  • The parking brake must be applied and the wheels chocked before leaving the cab on a gradient.

  • Mirror adjustment is set so that the trailer edge is visible in the lower third of the mirror; adjust before moving off.

  • Air-brake pressure gauges show both service and secondary circuits; a low-pressure warning buzzer or light requires stopping and investigation.

  • Power steering should not be held at full lock for more than a few seconds, which can damage the pump and overheat the fluid.

  • Cruise control must not be used on slippery surfaces, in heavy traffic, or on steep descents where engine braking is needed.

Quick reference

Handling and Pre-Trip Inspection

  • Pre-trip checks cover tyres, brakes, lights, fluids, mirrors, wipers, load security, and air pressure build-up before moving off.

  • Tyre tread depth must be at least 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters of the tread; check sidewalls for cuts, bulges, and embedded objects.

  • Cold tyre pressure must match the manufacturer's specification; under-inflation causes heat build-up and blowout risk on long runs.

  • Test brakes by building full air pressure, then checking that the low-pressure warning activates below the specified threshold.

  • Check all lamps: headlights, indicators, brake lights, reversing lamps, marker lights, and hazard flashers.

  • Inspect for air leaks by listening for hissing and observing gauge drop with the engine off and brakes applied.

  • Check the fifth wheel, coupling pin, and safety catch engagement on articulated units; tug-test the trailer after coupling.

  • Wheel nut indicators (yellow or red arrows) should all point the same way; misaligned indicators signal a loose nut.

Quick reference

Load Securing

  • The load must be secured so it cannot shift, roll, or fall; use straps, chains, or nets rated to at least the load weight.

  • Lashing capacity must exceed the load's tendency to move; use at least two independent securing devices where practicable.

  • The centre of gravity should be as low and as close to the vehicle's centreline as possible to preserve stability.

  • Loads must not project beyond the vehicle's rear by more than the permitted overhang without a marker board and, at night, a red light.

  • Cover loose aggregates or sand with a tarpaulin to prevent spillage onto the road.

  • Check load security again after the first 20–30 km and at every rest stop during the journey.

  • Never exceed the rated capacity of the lashing points or the vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating.

  • Distribute the load evenly across the axles to avoid overloading one axle or reducing steering-axle grip.

Quick reference

Weight Limits and Axle Loading

  • Gross vehicle weight (GVW) is the maximum permissible total weight of the vehicle plus load; gross combination weight (GCW) applies to the tractor and trailer together.

  • Axle load is the weight carried by a single axle or axle group; each axle has a rated maximum that must not be exceeded.

  • Payload equals GVW minus the vehicle's kerb weight; never plan a load that pushes the total above GVW.

  • Overloading increases braking distance, tyre heat, and road damage and is an offence with fines and possible vehicle detention.

  • Distribute weight so that no single axle exceeds its rating; use a weighbridge to confirm axle loads before departure.

  • Fifth-wheel position and trailer axle spacing affect the weight split between tractor and trailer; adjust to balance the load.

  • A tandem or tri-axle group has a combined rating lower than the sum of individual axle ratings; check the plate.

  • The vehicle's weight plate (VIN plate) lists the permissible axle loads and must be consulted, not estimated.

Quick reference

Heavy Vehicle Braking Systems and Air Brakes

  • Air-brake systems operate at a normal working pressure of about 8–8.5 bar (approximately 120 psi); the low-pressure warning should activate around 4.5 bar.

  • The compressor must build pressure from zero to the working range within the manufacturer's specified time; slow build-up indicates a fault.

  • Perform a leak test: with the engine off and brakes applied, pressure drop should not exceed the manufacturer's limit over a set period.

  • The parking (spring) brake is held by spring pressure and released by air; loss of air pressure causes it to apply automatically.

  • Brake fade occurs when drums or discs overheat on long descents; prevent it by using engine braking and a retarder.

  • The anti-lock braking system (ABS) prevents wheel lock-up; keep firm pressure on the pedal during an emergency stop and do not pump it.

  • Brake adjustment and slack adjuster travel must be within specification; excessive travel reduces braking force.

  • Drain air tanks daily to remove moisture that can freeze or corrode the system; check the air dryer function regularly.

Quick reference

Hazard Perception and Emergency Response

  • Scan 12–15 seconds ahead of the vehicle and check mirrors every 5–8 seconds to detect developing hazards.

  • If a tyre blows out, hold the steering firmly, ease off the accelerator, and avoid hard braking until control is regained.

  • If brakes fail, downshift through the gears, use the retarder or exhaust brake, and apply the parking brake progressively.

  • In a skid, steer in the direction of the skid and avoid sudden braking or sharp steering inputs.

  • If the vehicle catches fire, stop, switch off the engine, evacuate occupants upwind, and call the fire service before attempting to fight a small fire.

  • At a collision scene, secure the area, switch on hazard lights, place warning triangles, and call emergency services with location and casualty details.

  • Do not move an injured person unless there is immediate danger such as fire or oncoming traffic.

  • If the vehicle stalls on a level crossing, evacuate immediately and move away from the tracks before calling the railway emergency number.

Quick reference

Driver Hours, Rest Periods and Fatigue Management

  • Continuous driving must be interrupted by a break of at least 15 minutes after no more than 4 hours of driving, and a 45-minute break after 4.5 hours under common heavy-vehicle rules.

  • Daily driving time is typically capped at 9 hours, extendable to 10 hours twice a week under EU-style rules; check the applicable national limit.

  • A daily rest period of at least 11 hours must be taken within each 24-hour period; reduced rest of 9 hours is allowed a limited number of times.

  • A weekly rest of at least 45 hours is required, with reduced weekly rest of 24 hours compensated later.

  • The tachograph or logbook must record driving, other work, availability, and rest; falsification is a serious offence.

  • Fatigue signs include heavy eyelids, lane drifting, yawning, and missed signs; the only remedy is stopping for rest, not caffeine or fresh air.

  • The 15-hour spreadover limit means all duty including breaks must finish within 15 hours of the start of the shift.

  • Night driving between 00:00 and 06:00 carries higher fatigue risk; plan additional breaks and avoid long unbroken stretches.

Quick reference

First Aid

  • The primary survey is DRABC: Danger, Response, Airway, Breathing, Circulation; check and act in that order.

  • For severe bleeding, apply direct pressure with a clean dressing and elevate the limb if no fracture is suspected.

  • For a suspected spinal injury, keep the casualty still and support the head until emergency services arrive.

  • For burns, cool with running water for at least 20 minutes and do not remove clothing stuck to the burn.

  • Place an unconscious but breathing casualty in the recovery position and monitor breathing continuously.

  • Begin CPR at 30 chest compressions to 2 rescue breaths for adults; compress at 100–120 per minute to a depth of 5–6 cm.

  • For suspected fractures, immobilise the limb in the position found and do not attempt to realign it.

  • Record the casualty's condition, time of incident, and any first aid given for the emergency services and the incident report.

Quick reference

Fire Safety and Incident Procedures

  • Vehicle fires most often start in the engine bay, brakes, tyres, or electrical wiring; switch off the engine and battery isolator if safe.

  • Use a CO2 or dry-powder extinguisher on electrical and fuel fires; never use water on fuel or electrical fires.

  • Aim the extinguisher at the base of the fire and sweep side to side; only tackle a small fire with an escape route behind you.

  • Fuel fires spread rapidly; evacuate to at least 100 metres upwind and call the fire service.

  • After any fire, do not restart the engine; isolate the battery and await inspection by a qualified technician.

  • Place warning triangles about 50 metres behind the vehicle on ordinary roads and further back on motorways or blind bends.

  • Report all incidents to the operator and insurer promptly; preserve evidence and complete an incident report with times and location.

  • Keep the fire extinguisher serviced and within its inspection date; check the pressure gauge during the pre-trip inspection.

Quick reference

Environmental and Fuel-Efficient Driving

  • Progressive gear changes at around 1,500–2,000 rpm in a heavy diesel reduce fuel consumption compared with revving to the red line.

  • Anticipate traffic and coast or use engine braking instead of accelerating then braking sharply; smooth driving cuts fuel use.

  • Idling for more than a minute wastes fuel; switch off the engine when stationary for extended periods, subject to local rules.

  • Correct tyre pressure reduces rolling resistance; under-inflated tyres increase fuel consumption and wear.

  • Remove unnecessary weight and avoid carrying unused roof racks or equipment that increases aerodynamic drag.

  • Plan routes to avoid congestion and steep gradients; use telematics or route planning to reduce empty running.

  • Regular servicing, clean air filters, and correct injector timing keep emissions and fuel use within specification.

  • Excessive engine idling and harsh acceleration increase particulate and NOx emissions, which are regulated in urban areas.

Quick reference

Vehicle Documentation, Licensing and Insurance

  • The driving licence must match the vehicle class; heavy goods vehicles require a Category C or C+E entitlement, and passenger-carrying heavy vehicles require D.

  • The vehicle registration document (rukhsa) must be current and carried in the vehicle.

  • Third-party liability insurance is mandatory; operating without valid insurance is an offence and voids claims.

  • The vehicle must pass periodic technical inspection (MOT-equivalent) at the intervals set by the licensing authority.

  • A tachograph calibration certificate must be current and kept with the vehicle for enforcement checks.

  • Drivers of commercial heavy vehicles may require a goods-transport permit and driver qualification card depending on the operation.

  • Insurance may be voided by unlicensed drivers, unroadworthy vehicles, or undeclared commercial use; check the policy terms.

  • Keep copies of licences, insurance, permits, and inspection certificates accessible for roadside inspection.

Quick reference

Traffic Law (Supplement)

  • Speed limits for heavy goods vehicles are lower than for cars on the same road; observe the posted lorry limit and the vehicle's governed speed.

  • Overtaking is prohibited where a solid line, a no-overtaking sign, or a crest or bend restricts visibility.

  • Drivers must give way to emergency vehicles displaying flashing lights and sirens; pull over safely and stop if necessary.

  • Loading or unloading on a pedestrian crossing, at a bus stop, or on a clearway is prohibited.

  • A driver involved in a collision with property must stop and leave details if the owner is not present.

  • Driving without due care and attention, including tailgating and using a phone, carries penalties and possible licence points.

  • Vehicle lights must be used between dusk and dawn and in poor visibility; heavy vehicles need side marker and rear lights.

  • The vehicle must not be left unattended with the engine running on a public road except where permitted for specialised equipment.

Quick reference

Safe Driving and Defensive Driving (Supplement)

  • At junctions, look left, right, and left again before emerging; heavy vehicles need a larger gap because of slow acceleration.

  • When reversing, use a banksman or guide where visibility is restricted; if no guide is available, get out and check the area first.

  • Maintain a larger gap when following motorcycles, cyclists, and pedestrians, who may stop or swerve unpredictably.

  • On wet roads, allow at least double the dry following distance; on ice, allow up to ten times.

  • Use dipped headlights in rain and low visibility; high beam reduces visibility in fog and spray.

  • Before descending a long gradient, check the brake system, select a low gear, and engage the retarder.

  • At night, reduce speed so that you can stop within the distance lit by your headlights.

  • Defensive driving assumes other road users may make errors; always keep an escape route and a planned reaction.

Quick reference

Vehicle Controls (Supplement)

  • The tachograph mode switch must be set to the correct activity: driving, other work, availability, or rest.

  • The differential lock should only be engaged when stationary or moving very slowly and must be disengaged before normal road driving.

  • The exhaust brake or engine brake must not be used on slippery surfaces, where it can cause the drive wheels to lose grip.

  • The suspension levelling control must be set correctly before coupling or uncoupling a trailer.

  • The horn must not be used in built-up areas at night except to warn of immediate danger.

  • The hazard warning lights are used to warn other road users of a breakdown or hazard, not for parking.

  • The retarder should be tested during the pre-trip check and used on descents to prevent brake fade.

  • The steering wheel should be held with both hands at the ten-to-two or quarter-to-three position for maximum control.

Quick reference

Handling and Pre-Trip Inspection (Supplement)

  • Check the engine oil, coolant, and washer fluid levels when the engine is cold and the vehicle is on level ground.

  • Inspect the exhaust system for leaks, security, and excessive smoke, which may indicate a fault or emissions problem.

  • Check the battery terminals for corrosion and security, and confirm the charge warning light extinguishes after starting.

  • Test the parking brake on a slope before relying on it; it must hold the vehicle fully loaded.

  • Check the coupling, air lines, and electrical connections between tractor and trailer; confirm the trailer brake test.

  • Inspect the load bed and side gates for damage or insecure latches before loading.

  • Check the fire extinguisher, first-aid kit, warning triangle, and reflective vest are present and in date.

  • Record the pre-trip inspection results and any defects; do not drive a vehicle with a safety-critical defect.

Quick reference

Load Securing (Supplement)

  • Use a headboard or bulkhead to prevent load movement toward the cab during braking.

  • Strap tension should be sufficient to prevent movement but not so tight that it damages the load or the lashing points.

  • Sharp edges must be protected before lashings are applied to prevent chafing and failure.

  • Loads must be checked after any emergency braking or sudden manoeuvre.

  • The load must not obstruct lights, mirrors, or registration plates; reposition or remove obstructions.

  • Heavy items should be placed low and over the rear axles, not high or over the steering axle.

  • Use dunnage or chocks to prevent cylindrical loads from rolling.

  • Comply with the maximum height and width limits; oversized loads need permits, escorts, and marker boards.

Quick reference

Weight Limits and Axle Loading (Supplement)

  • The gross train weight is the maximum combined weight of the towing vehicle and trailer, including loads.

  • Axle load distribution is affected by the position of the fifth wheel; moving it forward transfers weight to the steering axle.

  • A weighbridge ticket is the accepted evidence of axle and gross weights for enforcement and insurance purposes.

  • Overloading an axle by more than the permitted tolerance can result in a prohibition notice and a fine.

  • Tyre load ratings must match or exceed the axle load; check the load index on the sidewall.

  • The sum of axle loads must never exceed the gross vehicle weight, even if each axle is individually within its rating.

  • Loads must be distributed so that the steering axle retains enough weight for grip and steering control.

  • Check the vehicle's plate for the maximum permissible gross and axle weights before planning a load.

Quick reference

Heavy Vehicle Braking Systems and Air Brakes (Supplement)

  • The air dryer removes moisture from the system; a faulty dryer allows water to reach the tanks and valves.

  • The low-pressure warning must activate before the spring brakes apply automatically.

  • A brake test should include a static test and a moving test at low speed before the vehicle is used on the road.

  • The emergency brake system applies the trailer brakes if the coupling or air line fails.

  • Brake chambers and diaphragms must be inspected for cracks, leaks, and correct pushrod travel.

  • The ABS warning light should extinguish after the self-test; if it stays on, the ABS may be inoperative and the vehicle should be checked.

  • Do not use the parking brake for normal stopping; use the service brake and apply the parking brake only when stationary.

  • Brake fluid and air system components must be maintained to the manufacturer's schedule; keep records of inspections.

Quick reference

Hazard Perception and Emergency Response (Supplement)

  • Scan for hazards at junctions, bends, hill crests, and pedestrian crossings, and plan a response before reaching them.

  • If a load shifts, reduce speed gradually, avoid sudden steering, and stop in a safe place to check the load.

  • If a wheel detaches or a tyre deflates, hold the wheel firmly, ease off the accelerator, and steer to a safe stop.

  • If the vehicle becomes stuck on a level crossing, evacuate and call the railway emergency number before attempting recovery.

  • At an incident, do not smoke or use naked flames near spilled fuel; isolate the battery if safe.

  • Use the hazard lights and warning triangle to warn approaching traffic, especially on motorways and blind bends.

  • If a casualty is not breathing, start CPR and send for an AED if available.

  • Record the sequence of events, weather, road conditions, and any witnesses for the incident report.

Quick reference

Driver Hours, Rest Periods and Fatigue Management (Supplement)

  • A break may be taken in two parts, for example 15 minutes followed by 30 minutes, to make up the required 45 minutes.

  • Daily rest may be taken in the vehicle if it has a suitable bunk and the vehicle is stationary.

  • The weekly driving limit is typically 56 hours, and the two-week limit is 90 hours under EU-style rules.

  • Drivers must keep records for the period required by law and produce them on request.

  • A reduced daily rest of 9 hours may be taken no more than three times between weekly rests.

  • Fatigue management includes planning routes with rest stops, avoiding long night shifts, and recognising early warning signs.

  • The tachograph must be used correctly; manual entries are required for work done away from the vehicle.

  • Employers must schedule work so that drivers can comply with driving and rest limits.

Quick reference

First Aid (Supplement)

  • Check for danger before approaching a casualty, including traffic, fire, and spilled fuel.

  • If a casualty is not breathing, call emergency services, start CPR, and use an AED as soon as it is available.

  • For choking, encourage coughing; if the airway is blocked, give back blows and abdominal thrusts.

  • For suspected head injury, keep the casualty still and monitor consciousness and breathing.

  • For shock, lay the casualty down, keep them warm, and do not give food or drink.

  • For eye injuries, do not remove embedded objects; cover the eye and seek medical help.

  • For chemical burns, flush with copious water and remove contaminated clothing while flushing.

  • Hand over first-aid information to the emergency services on arrival.

Quick reference

Fire Safety and Incident Procedures (Supplement)

  • A fire in the engine bay should be tackled from a safe distance through a gap, not by fully opening the bonnet, which feeds oxygen.

  • Tyres and brakes can ignite after overheating; allow them to cool and check for smoke before continuing.

  • Electrical fires require the battery to be isolated before using an extinguisher.

  • Fuel fires should not be tackled with water; use foam, dry powder, or CO2.

  • After a fire, the vehicle must be inspected and cleared before returning to service.

  • Keep a fire extinguisher within reach of the driver's seat and check its gauge during the pre-trip inspection.

  • Evacuate passengers upwind and to a safe distance, and account for them.

  • Report the incident to the operator, insurer, and authorities as required.

Quick reference

Environmental and Fuel-Efficient Driving (Supplement)

  • Use cruise control on flat motorways where safe to maintain a steady speed and reduce fuel use.

  • Avoid harsh acceleration and late braking; smooth inputs reduce fuel consumption and wear.

  • Keep the vehicle serviced and the tyres correctly inflated to minimise rolling resistance.

  • Plan routes to avoid congestion and minimise empty running.

  • Switch off the engine when stationary for extended periods, subject to local rules.

  • Use the retarder and engine braking to reduce brake wear and fuel use on descents.

  • Avoid unnecessary idling and excessive revving, which increase emissions and fuel use.

  • Record fuel use and monitor for changes that may indicate a fault or poor driving habits.

Quick reference

Vehicle Documentation, Licensing and Insurance (Supplement)

  • The driving licence must be valid for the vehicle class and carried at all times.

  • The vehicle registration document must be current and carried in the vehicle.

  • Third-party liability insurance is mandatory; operating without it is an offence.

  • The vehicle must pass periodic technical inspection at the intervals set by the authority.

  • The tachograph calibration certificate must be current and kept with the vehicle.

  • Commercial heavy vehicle operations may require a goods-transport permit and driver qualification card.

  • Insurance may be voided by unlicensed drivers, unroadworthy vehicles, or undeclared commercial use.

  • Keep copies of licences, insurance, permits, and inspection certificates accessible for roadside inspection.

Quick reference

Traffic Law (Supplement 2)

  • Observe the posted speed limit for the vehicle class; heavy goods vehicles have lower limits than cars.

  • Do not overtake where a solid line, a no-overtaking sign, or restricted visibility applies.

  • Give way to emergency vehicles displaying flashing lights and sirens; pull over safely and stop if necessary.

  • Do not load or unload on a pedestrian crossing, at a bus stop, or on a clearway.

  • A driver involved in a collision with property must stop and leave details if the owner is not present.

  • Driving without due care and attention, including tailgating and phone use, carries penalties and licence points.

  • Use lights between dusk and dawn and in poor visibility; heavy vehicles need side marker and rear lights.

  • Do not leave the vehicle unattended with the engine running on a public road except where permitted.

Quick reference

Safe Driving and Defensive Driving (Supplement 2)

  • At junctions, look left, right, and left again before emerging; heavy vehicles need a larger gap.

  • When reversing, use a banksman or guide where visibility is restricted.

  • Maintain a larger gap when following motorcycles, cyclists, and pedestrians.

  • On wet roads, allow at least double the dry following distance; on ice, allow up to ten times.

  • Use dipped headlights in rain and low visibility; high beam reduces visibility in fog and spray.

  • Before descending a long gradient, check the brakes, select a low gear, and engage the retarder.

  • At night, reduce speed so that you can stop within the distance lit by your headlights.

  • Defensive driving assumes other road users may make errors; keep an escape route and a planned reaction.

Quick reference

Vehicle Controls (Supplement 2)

  • Set the tachograph mode switch to the correct activity: driving, other work, availability, or rest.

  • Engage the differential lock only when stationary or moving very slowly and disengage before normal road driving.

  • Do not use the exhaust brake or engine brake on slippery surfaces, where it can cause the drive wheels to lose grip.

  • Set the suspension levelling control correctly before coupling or uncoupling a trailer.

  • Do not use the horn in built-up areas at night except to warn of immediate danger.

  • Use hazard warning lights to warn of a breakdown or hazard, not for parking.

  • Test the retarder during the pre-trip check and use it on descents to prevent brake fade.

  • Hold the steering wheel with both hands at the ten-to-two or quarter-to-three position for maximum control.

Quick reference

Handling and Pre-Trip Inspection (Supplement 2)

  • Check engine oil, coolant, and washer fluid levels when the engine is cold and the vehicle is on level ground.

  • Inspect the exhaust system for leaks, security, and excessive smoke.

  • Check battery terminals for corrosion and security, and confirm the charge warning light extinguishes after starting.

  • Test the parking brake on a slope before relying on it; it must hold the vehicle fully loaded.

  • Check the coupling, air lines, and electrical connections between tractor and trailer; confirm the trailer brake test.

  • Inspect the load bed and side gates for damage or insecure latches before loading.

  • Check the fire extinguisher, first-aid kit, warning triangle, and reflective vest are present and in date.

  • Record the pre-trip inspection results and any defects; do not drive a vehicle with a safety-critical defect.

Quick reference

Load Securing (Supplement 2)

  • Use a headboard or bulkhead to prevent load movement toward the cab during braking.

  • Strap tension should be sufficient to prevent movement but not so tight that it damages the load or lashing points.

  • Protect sharp edges before applying lashings to prevent chafing and failure.

  • Check loads after any emergency braking or sudden manoeuvre.

  • Do not obstruct lights, mirrors, or registration plates; reposition or remove obstructions.

  • Place heavy items low and over the rear axles, not high or over the steering axle.

  • Use dunnage or chocks to prevent cylindrical loads from rolling.

  • Comply with maximum height and width limits; oversized loads need permits, escorts, and marker boards.