Any driver who loses brakes going downhill should use an escape ramp if it is available. Drainage channels across roads can cause the ends of some vehicles to drag. You need space ahead in case you must suddenly stop. Carry the right number of chains and extra cross-links. Check the wiper blades for damage, stiff rubber, and securement. Possible distractions that could occur outside a moving vehicle: traffic, vehicles, or pedestrians; events such as police pulling someone over, an accident scene or road construction; sunlight/sunset; objects in roadway; reading billboards or other road advertisements; and many others. How do you find out how many seconds of following distance space you have? Jacked up wheels or raised hoods are hazard clues. Accidents tend to occur at times when sleepiness is most pronounced, for example, during the night and in the mid-afternoon. Turn off the lights not needed for driving. Accidents. Step back while pressure is released from cooling system. A farm labor vehicle when transporting passengers. However, keep your eye on the trailer and let up on the brakes (if you can safely do so) if it begins to swing out. Before you change lanes to make sure there is enough room. (Antifreeze helps the engine under hot conditions as well as cold conditions.) The drivers seat when out of the vehicle. When your chat is over, you can save the transcript. However, a BAC below 0.04 percent does not mean that it is safe or legal to drive. Do not try to edge gradually back on the road. Placards must be readable from all 4 directions. When you drive a vehicle with ABS, you should brake as you always have. Push the dimmer switch and check that the high beams work. Other drivers cannot know what you are going to do until you tell them. That is why a helper is important. Check your mirrors regularly to know where other vehicles are around you, and to see if they move into your blind spots. This will reduce the danger of slipping. When first starting, get the feel of the road. What type of vehicles can get stuck on a railroad-highway crossing? You will not be able to shift into a lower gear. Extinguish by Smothering, Cooling or Heat Shielding using Carbon Dioxide or Dry Chemicals, These questions may be on the test. Use of drugs can lead to traffic accidents resulting in death, injury, and property damage. Caffeine consumption can increase awareness for a few hours, but do not drink too much. If you are driving a 40-foot truck and only counted up to 2 seconds, you are too close. If you go faster than the speed of other traffic, you will have to keep passing other vehicles. Some general guidelines to help you adjust your speed on slippery roads include: Slow down to 5 to 10 mph slower on wet roads. This is a good response if there is enough distance to stop, and you use the brakes correctly. See Figure 2.10. Stop when the lights begin to flash and before the gate lowers across the road lane. In a bus or straight truck, the vehicle will slide sideways in a spin out. With vehicles towing trailers, a drive-wheel skid can let the trailer push the towing vehicle sideways, causing a sudden jackknife. Learn the laws and rules of the road in preparation for your drive and knowledge tests. Drop back a little and count again until you have 4 seconds of following distance (or 5 seconds, if you are going over 40 mph). It is important to realize this and to allow for it. Right after the rain has stopped. Name, badge number, and agency of any peace officer investigating the accident. CMV Driving Tips - Too Fast for Conditions | FMCSA You need to manage space to have space available when something goes wrong. The day after it rains. Tires are the same type (for example, not mixed radial and bias types). If the vehicle has hydraulic brakes, pump the brake pedal 3 times. Apply for a license or ID card (including REAL ID). ABS could help to prevent a serious accident. This type of crossing has a traffic control device installed at the crossing to regulate traffic at the crossing. You need 2/32 inch on other tires. Condition of hoseslook for any wear due to rubbing. Taking your foot off the accelerator can easily stop them. If you cannot see clearly, you will have trouble identifying traffic and roadway conditions, spotting potential trouble or responding to problems in a timely manner. Check that the parking brakes are on and/or wheels chocked. You may not be able to steer or brake. Regular Checks. Having ABS on only the tractor, only the trailer, or even on only 1 axle, still gives you more control over the vehicle during braking. The best place to get this practice is on a large driving range or skid pad.. Drivers who are sleepy, have had too much to drink, are on drugs, or are ill are hazards. While they may keep you awake for a while, they will not make you alert. The vehicle may not be on the road at all. The Large Truck Crash Causation Study (LTCCS) reported that 8 percent of large-truck accidents occurred when CMV drivers were externally distracted and 2 percent of large-truck accidents occurred when the driver was internally distracted. Motor carriers must not allow nor require drivers to use a hand-held mobile telephone while driving. Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability, Special Interest and Personalized License Plates Orders, Vehicle & Occupational Licensing Industry News Memos, New Trailer and Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Report of Sale, Vehicle Industry Services Resources & Links, Industry Business Center Case Status Request, Occupational Licensing Status Information System, Section 4: Transporting Passengers Safely, National Sleep Foundations Sleep in America Poll, The History of the Department of Motor Vehicles, Department of Motor Vehicles Strategic Plan: 2021-2026, Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Program, Department of Motor Vehicles Field Office Wait Times Reports, Department of Motor Vehicles Performance Reports, Privacy Policy Statement (Privacy/Security), install the Google Toolbar (opens in new window), Driving Skills Significantly Affected Criminal Penalties. Being prepared reduces the danger. If you can safely do so, look at yourself in a mirror. If the brakes become too hot, they may start to fade. This means you have to apply them harder and harder to get the same stopping power. Reduce your speed by five to ten miles per hour. Research shows the odds of being involved in a safety-critical event (for example, accident, near-accident, or unintentional lane deviation) is 6 times greater for CMV drivers who engage in dialing a mobile telephone while driving than for those who do not. Fresh rainwater mixes with oil and grease on the . Without ABS, you still have normal brake functions. State of California Department of Motor Vehicles. This section does not have specific information on air brakes, combination vehicles, doubles, or passenger vehicles. According to the National Sleep Foundations Sleep in America Poll, 60 percent of Americans have driven while feeling sleepy and more than 1/3 (36 percent or 103 million people) admit to having actually fallen asleep at the wheel. In mountain driving, gravity plays a major role. These drivers may not be paying attention to you. If you are blocked on both sides, a move to the right may be best. A hazard is any road condition or other road user (driver, motorcyclist, bicyclist, and pedestrian) that is a possible danger. Drivers changing a tire or fixing an engine often do not pay attention to the danger roadway traffic is to them. It will cost you time and money. High speeds create more heat for the tires and engine. Over 40 mph, you would need 5 seconds for a 40-foot vehicle and 7 seconds for a 60-foot vehicle. Pull Off the Road. See Figure 2.22. In California, you are not allowed to use an electronic device while driving unless it is hands-free. If you are carrying open cargo, you can use the mirrors to check it. See Figure 2.19. When your other wheels lock up, you may skid, jackknife, or even spin the vehicle. If not, you should: Do a normal vehicle inspection, but pay special attention to the following items. Always back as slowly as possible. Gravel often gets washed to the middle of the lane. You should not rely solely upon the presence of warning signals, gates, or flagmen to warn of the approach of trains. When you see a hazard, think about the emergencies that could develop and figure out what you would do. These are lane changes, turns, merges, and tight maneuvers. If pedestrians or other vehicles block them, they may have to stop on the roadway. Carefully read the information on going down long, steep downgrades safely in Subsections 2.16 Mountain Driving in this handbook. Do not brake any harder than necessary, and do not use the engine brake or speed retarder. Use a wrench to test rust-streaked lug nuts, indicating looseness. The motor carrier must repair any items in the report that affect safety and certify on the report that repairs were made or were unnecessary. Check your mirrors for vehicles on either side and behind you. Fatigue is physical or mental tiredness that can be caused by physical or mental strain, repetitive tasks, illness, or lack of sleep. People often run across the road without looking. How long does it take a typical tractor-trailer unit to clear a double track? Why are roads especially slippery right after it begins to rain? It is no surprise that the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) reported that drowsy driving was probably the cause of more than half of accidents leading to a truck drivers death (NTSB, 1990). These are indications of standing water. Vehicles may slow or stop suddenly. Taking sedating medications (antidepressants, cold tablets, antihistamines). It does not decrease or increase your normal braking capability. Driving long distances without proper rest breaks. Check for traffic behind you while stopping gradually. Be Aware! You could have a breakdown on the road that will cost time and dollars, or even worse, an accident caused by the defect. Flashing Red Light Signals. Do not use any drug that hides fatigue. Disqualification is 60 days for the second offense within 3 years and 120 days for 3 or more offenses within 3 years. Drive carefully enough to avoid an accident, even if they do not see or hear you. Watch for clear reflections, tire splashes, and raindrops on the road. A broken hose while driving can lead to engine failure and even fire. Main Road Curves to the Right Ahead. You may hit someone behind you. Slippery Surfaces. Emergency braking means, responding to a hazard by slowing the vehicle. If you take a curve too fast, two things can happen. If you notice any signs of fatigue, stop driving and go to sleep for the night or take a 1520 minute nap. Look for loose straps, ropes, or chains. Vehicles going the same direction at the same speed are not likely to run into one another. Do Not Jam on the Brakes. For other tires? It takes a typical tractor-trailer unit at least 14 seconds to clear a single track and more than 15 seconds to clear a double track. Drive slowly and smoothly on slippery roads. Try to imagine why he or she is driving that way. Driving alone or on a long, rural, dark, or boring road. What is the minimum tread depth for front tires? Gently pull forward against the parking brake to make sure the parking brake holds. In California, failing to obey the move-over law is an infraction, punishable by a fine (CVC 21809). Non-U.S. Citizen transaction processing. Lane Changes. Low slung units (lowboy, car carrier, moving van, or possum-belly livestock trailer). How do you know if your vehicle has anti-lock brakes? If they are looking elsewhere, they cannot see you. There is a church ahead. Doing so will result in an immediate administrative driver licensing sanction (Admin Per Se) in accordance with CVC 13353.2(3). Pay attention to traffic signals and signs. Children may be nearby and may not see you. Following the safety practices in this handbook can help prevent emergencies. Primary and secondary safety cab locks are engaged (if cab-over-engine design). Brakes kept in good condition rarely fail. Explanation: To avoid skids on snow and ice, brake early, carefully and gently. This is a red triangle with an orange center. Stopping at the wrong time (stopping at a green light, or waiting for too long at a stop). Turn on the headlights (low beams) and 4-way emergency flashers, and get out of the vehicle. Safe operation of a CMV requires skill in: Fasten your seatbelt when on the road. The braking distance is also 4 times longer. However, once the brakes have failed, you will to have to look outside your vehicle for something to stop it. Keep a safe following distance. Make sure the parking brake is set, turn off the engine, and take the key with you. Vehicles with ABS have yellow malfunction lamps to tell you if something is not working. Do not wear sunglasses at night. Look for: Vehicles must be equipped with emergency equipment. See Figure 2.18. Drivers may have to make a vehicle inspection report in writing each day. Driving during the first half hour of rainfall is dangerous because roadways become extremely slippery when the water mixes with oil and other chemicals on the road surfaces . How can you avoid these problems? Exhaust system parts rubbing against fuel system parts, tires, or other moving parts of the vehicle. Turn on your lights. Below are some essential things every new driver should know about driving in slippery conditions. See Figure 2.13. Use roadside highway reflectors as guides to determine how the road may curve ahead of you. The tires can lose their traction and continue straight ahead, so you skid off the road. When a tire fails, your vehicle is in danger. Be alert because they may back out or enter into your lane. Any discrepancies or differences created in the translation are not binding and have no legal effect for compliance or enforcement purposes. Crowded roads leave little room for error, leading to suspicion and hostility among drivers and encouraging them to take personally the mistakes of other drivers. Activities inside the vehicle that can distract your attention include: talking to passengers; adjusting the radio, CD player or climate controls; eating, drinking, smoking; reading maps or other literature; picking up something that fell; talking on a cell phone or citizens band (CB) radio; reading or sending text messages; using any type of telematics or electronic devices (such as navigation systems, pagers, personal digital assistant, computers, etc. See Figure 2.14. Other situations include slow moving or stalled traffic in a traffic lane, and accident scenes. You must submit fingerprints, a fee, and any additional required information to one of TSAs designated agents. ABS will not prevent power or turning skids. Check the following: Lower and secure hood, cab, or engine compartment door. They consist of an X with the letters RR and a no-passing marking on 2-lane roads. An N endorsement is not necessary for the operation of vehicles that do not require a CDL. Effect of Vehicle Weight on Stopping Distance. You are at greater risk when you drive at night. For example, a vehicle in front of you is headed toward the freeway exit, the brake lights come on and they begin braking hard. Figures 2.20 and 2.21 detail the type of fire extinguisher to use by class of fire. Working more than one job and your main job involves shift work. If no escape ramp is available, take the least hazardous escape route you cansuch as an open field or a side road that flattens out or turns uphill. Inspect the tires every 2 hours or every 100 miles when driving in very hot weather. You must select an appropriate safe speed, and then use a low gear, and proper braking techniques. Furthermore, it can lead to arrest, fines, and jail sentences. On a left turn, make sure you reach the center of the intersection before you start the left turn. Water in the brakes can cause the brakes to be weak, apply unevenly, or grab. Most shoulders are strong enough to support the weight of a large vehicle, therefore; they offer an available escape route. Give them room to go by or stop. When Do Roads Get the Most Slippery? (+How to Drive Safely) Stop at the first safe place. Release the accelerator, push in the clutch, and shift to Neutral at the same time. These are containment rules. If the wheels skid, you cannot control the vehicle. Spare tire and/or wheel is securely mounted in rack. True or False? Watch for drivers who have trouble staying in their lane, or maintaining speed, stop without reason, or show other signs of being under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Green signs refer to permitted traffic direction or movement, and fluorescent yellow or green is reserved for pedestrian . The gravel gets washed into the middle of the lane. If your normal corrective lenses are broken or lost, you can use the spare lenses to drive safely. Gates. These include traction, curves, visibility, traffic. Secure commitment from other occupants to behave responsibly and support the driver in reducing distractions. Even a nap can save your life or the lives of others. Use low-beam headlights and fog lights for best visibility even in daytime, and be alert for other drivers who may have forgotten to turn on their lights. Know how the fire extinguisher works. This means going slowly enough to be able to stop within the range of your headlights. However, new trucks have low friction parts and streamlined shapes for fuel economy. If you must use a mobile phone, make sure it is within close proximity that it is operable while you are restrained, use an earpiece or the speaker phone function, use voice-activated dialing, and use the hands-free feature. To give yourself time to react, avoid last minute moves and hazards, always keep your eyes moving and scan the road at least 10 seconds ahead of your vehicle. What kinds of fires is a B:C extinguisher not good for? Empty trucks require greater stopping distances because an empty vehicle has less traction. Look for the hazards to have time to plan a way out of any emergency. Double Tracks Require a Double Check. Never drive a vehicle needing placards unless you have the H endorsement. At 55 mph (or 80.7 feet per second), this equates to a driver traveling 306 feet (approximate length of an American football field) without looking at the roadway. They might suddenly return to the highway. HazMat are products that pose a risk to health, safety, and property during transportation. For trailers only, if the yellow light on the left rear of the trailer stays on, the ABS is not working properly. The other brakes can then overheat and fade, and there will not be enough braking available to control the vehicle. If you use too much power, the drive wheels may spin and you could lose control. Allow a larger following distance. Proceed when it is safe. These questions may be on the test. Review the last vehicle inspection report. Drive at the speed of the traffic, if you can without going at an illegal or unsafe speed. Slow down as quickly as possible without skidding. Keep your vehicle centered in the lane to keep a safe clearance on either side. Speed up smoothly and gradually so the vehicle does not jerk. Remove any ice, snow, etc., from the windshield, windows, and mirrors before starting. Cell caps are present and securely tightened (except maintenance-free type). On rainy days, pedestrians may not see you because of hats or umbrellas. Right Turns. Tips For New Drivers Driving On Slick Roads Condition of torque rod arms and bushings. Large vehicles can hit other vehicles or objects during turns because of wide turning and off-tracking. At all other times, the brake system will operate normally. Signal well before you turn. Watch for brake lights, backup lights, exhaust, and other clues that a driver is about to move. When driving on wet roads, you should: Answers. Of course, good judgment and self-control are absolutely necessary for safe driving. Wet Brakes. Accelerate gradually. Locked wheels have less traction than rolling wheels, the rear wheels usually slide sideways in an attempt to catch up with the front wheels. Side-marker reflectors are clean and the proper color (red at rear, others amber). Pavement Markings. Suffering from sleep loss (insomnia), poor quality sleep, or a sleep deprivation. When large vehicles are being driven in caravan on the open highway, at least 100 feet must be left between them to allow other vehicles to overtake and pass them (CVC 21705). Fog, rain, or other conditions may require that you slow down to be able to stop in the distance you can see. If you are not sure you can make it, take another route. Schedule a road test. Before you begin backing, work out a set of hand signals that you both understand. Hitting overhead objects is a danger. How do you test hydraulic brakes for leaks? Do not ever exceed the posted speed limit for the curve. It is extremely difficult to judge the distance of the train from the crossing, as well as the speed of an approaching train. Drivers Signaling a Turn May Be a Hazard. Look for: To obtain a CDL, you will be required to pass a vehicle inspection test. Have a qualified person make sure they are adjusted properly. Properly charged and rated fire extinguisher. One good rule says you need at least 1 second for each 10 feet of vehicle length at speeds below 40 mph. Seeing Hazards Lets you be Prepared. When driving, check the water temperature or coolant temperature gauge from time to time. Start engine and listen for unusual noises. Walkers, joggers, and bicyclists may be on the road with their back to the traffic, so they cannot see you. Road Signs And Their Meanings | Learn About Different Road Signs After a little practice, you will know how far back you should be. To know how much space you have, wait until the vehicle ahead passes a shadow on the road, a pavement marking, or some other clear landmark. If you do not, you risk your life and the lives of others. (For more information, visit the NHTSA Distracted Driving web page at distraction.gov.). Yard Areas and Grade Crossings in Cities and Towns. If a qualified person is at the accident and helping the injured, stay out of the way unless asked to assist. The risk of having an accident due to drowsy driving is not uniformly distributed across the population. Weaving across the road or drifting from one side to another. When it is legal, tap the horn lightly or, at night, flash your lights from low to high beam and back. Adjust all vehicle controls and mirrors to your preferences prior to driving. Be a cautious and courteous driver. Release the parking brake only when you have applied enough engine power to keep from rolling back. of beer, or 5 oz. Cross such depressions carefully. Steam and boiling water can spray under pressure and cause severe burns. Mirror Adjustment. What should you do when the roads are slippery? Driving through the night, mid-afternoon, or when you would normally be asleep. If you must cross into the oncoming lane to make a turn, watch out for vehicles coming toward you. Just like alcohol and drugs, it impairs your vision and judgment. When they are clean and dry. You may legally block an intersection: * When you entered the intersection on the green light. Prepare route carefully to identify total distance, stopping points, and other logistic considerations. Keep your hands on the wheel. People may start to get out of their vehicles, or they may suddenly start up and drive into your way. Get out and walk around the vehicle. Why should you be in the proper gear before starting down a hill? This will help you keep control. Pedestrians and Bicyclists Can Also Be Hazards. End gates are free of damage and properly secured in stake sockets. You must point to or touch and name the item you are inspecting and explain why to the examiner. Some drivers make the mistake of always using low beams. ABS will not compensate for bad brakes or poor brake maintenance. The steeper the grade, the longer the grade, and/or the heavier the load, the more you will have to use lower gears to climb hills or mountains. Figure 2.6 illustrates how far to look ahead. When the road is slippery, the vehicle's tires do not grip as well as they do on a dry road. A placarded vehicle must have at least four identical placards. For some people, 1 drink is all it takes to show signs of impairment. Braking creates heat, but brakes are designed to take a lot of heat.