If a driver takes a run with bad equipment and is stopped or an accident occurs, there is a very good chance for tickets or possible court action. No excuse in the eyes of the law to do a pre trip, then drive with tires like that. You are guilty of contributory negligence. Which means you inspected the equipment, but decided to drive it with defects that are obvious. Not to mention the company will fire you for failing to do a pre-trip or now letting them know of the safety defects. A cracked frame rail that is hard to see is one thing. But tire conditions in plain sight won't help you. von.