Pre/Post Trip Inspections
The main reason operators are required to complete a pre-trip inspection.
What is to ensure the vehicle is safe and roadworthy before operating?
What is defensive driving?
Driving to prevent collisions, regardless of the actions of others.
What’s the first step if a safety incident occurs?
Ensure immediate safety of everyone and call for medical/emergency help if needed.
Why is proper wheelchair securement essential?
To prevent injury to the rider and others during transit.
Where should you stop for boarding/deboarding?
Close to the curb as possible in a safe, designated location.
Name any three components you must inspect during a pre-trip check.
What are
Tire Check
Horn Function
Brake Function
Lights
Windshield Wipers
How can you anticipate hazards while driving?
Continuously scan the road, check mirrors, and monitor other drivers.
Who should you report all incidents to?
Dispatch, designated supervisor immediately after the event.
To prevent injury to the rider and others during transit.
That the brakes are locked, the chair is properly positioned and passenger secured.
What should you do before allowing passengers to board?
Ensure the vehicle is fully stopped, the door area is clear, and conditions are safe.
The action you must take if you find a minor defect during your inspection.
What is record the defect and continue to operate the vehicle safely?
What is the 3–6 second rule?
A safe following distance in good conditions—add more time in bad weather.
When should the incident report form be completed?
As soon as possible after the incident, typically before the end of the shift.
How many tie-downs are required to secure a wheelchair?
Typically four—two in the front and two in the rear.
How do you assist riders with mobility devices (wheelchairs, walkers, etc)?
Offer door to door Service, Deploy the lift or ramp, ensure stability and offer help
Proper way to document both pre-trip and post-trip inspections.
What is a Log Book
Why is checking blind spots crucial before changing lanes?
Mirrors don’t show everything—checking blind spots prevents sideswipe collisions.
What details should be included in an incident report?
Time, location, people involved, description, witnesses, and any actions taken.
After securing the wheelchair, what is the final step?
Attach and adjust the lap/shoulder belt for the rider.
What is our policy for clients who have oxygen devices?
If the client has an oxygen tank, utilize the oxygen tank securement system to ensure that it remains stationary in the event of a crash.
Daily Double Clue:
This must be done immediately if you discover a major defect during your pre-trip inspection.
What is remove the vehicle from service and report it to dispatch/maintenance immediately?
When should you reduce speed below the posted limit?
In poor weather, heavy traffic, or near pedestrians or construction zones.
Why is it important to document even minor incidents?
To create a record for liability, safety improvement, and future training.
What is our policy if a rider refuses to wear a seatbelt?
Contact Dispatch, Document and have the right to refuse transport if not secured
What should you do in the event that a client falls or is injured during boarding/deboarding or transit?
Contact Dispatch. Even if the client states that they are ok, instruct to stay sitting/stationary and call 911 so that medical personnel can evaluate the client. The client can then refuse transport to the hospital/clinic after that.