Hot take from a jobsite problem-solver: inspect the tailgate before using it as a bench is not overthinking. It protects the fun part of the day. A pickup works better when tools, payload, visibility, and end-of-shift routines are organized around the next job.
Do the boring two-minute step, then enjoy the part worth remembering.
Honestly, that two-minute check can save you a lot of trouble! It’s easy to treat the tailgate like a seat or workbench, but making sure it’s secure first is definitely worth the extra moment.