Accurate and descriptive vehicle inspection reports can play a pivotal role in ensuring properly functioning fifth wheels, air and electrical systems and other systems and components, notes Fred Fakkema, vice president of compliance for Zonar. “Fleets that turn to an electronic vehicle inspection reporting [EVIR] system to replace written inspection forms,” he says, “have access to driver inspection reports that contain actionable information fleet managers and technicians can use to quickly pinpoint problems and make repairs.

“For instance,” Fakkema continues, “when drivers find issues involving fifth wheels during inspections, they may check the fifth wheel box on a paper form but forget to elaborate on the problem in the remarks section. Or, when they do, they may write illegible notes so the fleet or shop manager has to chase down the driver to get clarification. Incomplete reports can challenge busy technicians to pinpoint exact problems, particularly if multiple issues are involved.”

Using an interactive menu, the Zonar EVIR system, which comes standard on the company’s 2020 Mobile Tablet, prompts drivers to report specific conditions with fifth wheel and other components. It provides a list of various components to check and a choice of specific conditions to report.

For example, the EVIR system instructs drivers to choose various descriptions such as damage to fifth wheel frame fasteners or to the kingpin. If the problem isn’t listed, drivers can type the problem into a comment field. If they find it difficult to explain the defect, they can use the 2020’s built-in camera to take pictures, making it easier for technicians to locate and identify problems.

“The EVIR system,” Fakkema states, “provides a transparent electronic trail to help drivers and technicians improve safety scores, significantly reduce the chance a roadside inspector finds out-of-service violations, and protect their companies’ safety records.”