What should drivers do before starting a shift?

Before starting a shift, conducting a vehicle inspection and verifying that all necessary documents are current is essential for drivers of For-Hire Vehicles (FHVs). This practice ensures the vehicle is in safe and proper working condition, which is crucial for the safety of both the driver and passengers. It involves checking critical components such as brakes, lights, tires, and overall vehicle functionality.

Additionally, confirming that all required documents, such as the driver's license, vehicle registration, and insurance, are up to date helps to ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. This proactive approach minimizes the risk of encountering issues during shifts, which can affect not only safety but also customer service and operational efficiency.

While reviewing favorite routes or checking social media might seem useful, they do not directly address the legal, safety, and operational aspects that need to be prioritized before beginning work in a FHV. Refueling the vehicle is also important, but it should be part of an overall vehicle readiness check rather than just a conditional action based on necessity.