What must be confirmed about splash guards during a pre-trip inspection?

During a pre-trip inspection, it is essential to confirm that splash guards are mounted properly and intact. Properly mounted splash guards provide crucial protection against debris and water being thrown up by the tires, which can obstruct visibility for other drivers and create unsafe driving conditions. Ensuring that the splash guards are intact means checking for any cracks, tears, or loose fittings that might compromise their effectiveness. An intact splash guard assists in preventing water and mud from splashing onto the vehicle and those around it, thereby enhancing safety.

While other attributes, such as being colorful or removable for cleaning, might have aesthetic or practical benefits, they do not directly contribute to the main function and safety of the splash guards during operation. It is important for driver safety that these components are securely attached and fully operational to fulfill their intended purpose.