What condition of the wiper blades should be checked during a pre-trip inspection?

Checking the condition of the wiper blades during a pre-trip inspection is crucial for ensuring visibility and safety while driving. The presence of tears in the rubber is a key indicator of a wiper blade's effectiveness. If the rubber is torn, the blades may not make proper contact with the windshield, leading to streaking or incomplete wiping of water or debris. This can severely impair visibility in adverse weather conditions, increasing the risk of an accident.

While aspects like blade length, color, and brand may seem relevant, they do not directly affect the performance of the wiper blades in the same critical way that the presence of tears does. Ensuring that the rubber is intact and free of damage is the most important factor in gauging whether the wiper blades will function properly when needed.