CDL Class B General Knowledge Quiz & Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is the most important reason for doing a vehicle inspection?

Safety for yourself and for other road users.

What things should you check during a trip?

Watch gauges for signs of trouble, tires, wheels and rims, brakes, lights and reflectors, brake and electrical connections to trailer, trailer coupling devices, cargo securement devices.

Name some key steering system parts.

Steering wheel, steering wheel shaft, steering gear box, pitman arm, drag link, steering ring knuckle spindle, steering arms.

Name some suspension system defects.

String hangers that allow movement of the axle from proper position, cracked or broken leaf spring hangers, missing or broken leaves in a multi-leaf spring, leaking shock absorbers. Signup and view all the answers

What three kinds of emergency equipment must you have?

Safety equipment, emergency phone numbers, accident reporting kit. Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum tread depth for front tires? For other tires?

4/32-inch tread depth for front tires, 2/32 inch depth for other tires. Signup and view all the answers

Name some things you should check on the front of your vehicle during the walk-around inspection.

Front axle, steering system, windshield, lights and reflectors. Signup and view all the answers

What should wheel bearing seals be checked for?

Leaking. Signup and view all the answers

How many red reflective triangles should you carry?

Three red reflective triangles. Signup and view all the answers

How do you test hydraulic brakes for leaks?

Pump the brakes 3 times, apply firm pressure to the pedal and hold for five seconds. If the pedal moves there may be a leak. Signup and view all the answers

Why put the starter switch key in your pocket during the pre-trip inspection?

So that no one starts the bus while you are pre-tripping. Signup and view all the answers

How far ahead does the manual say you should look?

12-15 seconds, 1 block, 1 mile. Signup and view all the answers

What are two main things to look for ahead?

Stopping, lane changes. Signup and view all the answers

What's your most important way to see the sides and rear of your vehicle?

Mirrors. Signup and view all the answers

What does 'communicating' mean in safe driving?

Signaling. Signup and view all the answers

Where should your reflectors be placed when stopped on a divided highway?

10, 100, 200. Signup and view all the answers

What three things add up to total stopping distance?

Perception Distance + Reaction Distance + Braking Distance = Total Stopping Distance. Signup and view all the answers

If you go twice as fast, will your stopping distance increase by two or four times?

4 times greater. Signup and view all the answers

Empty trucks have the best braking.

False Signup and view all the answers

What is hydroplaning?

Tires lose contact with the road and have little or no traction. Signup and view all the answers

What is 'black ice'?

A thin layer that is clear enough that you can see the road underneath it. Signup and view all the answers

How do you find out how many seconds of following distance space you have?

Count based on landmarks a vehicle in front of you passed before you. Signup and view all the answers

If you are driving a 30-foot vehicle at 55 mph, how many seconds of following distance should you allow?

4 seconds. Signup and view all the answers

You should decrease your following distance if somebody is following you too closely.

False Signup and view all the answers

If you swing wide to the left before turning right, another driver may try to pass you on the right.

True Signup and view all the answers

What is a hazard?

Danger. Signup and view all the answers

Why make emergency plans when you see a hazard?

To give yourself more time in case a hazard becomes an emergency. Signup and view all the answers

What are some tips to follow so you won't become a distracted driver?

Review safety features, pre-program radio stations, clear unnecessary objects, review maps, adjust mirrors, avoid distractions while driving. Signup and view all the answers

How do you use in-vehicle communications equipment cautiously?

Pull over when possible, turn off phone, short conversations. Signup and view all the answers

How do you recognize a distracted driver?

Vane drifting, inconsistent speeds, preoccupied conversations. Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between aggressive driving and road rage?

Rude driving vs. driving intending harm. Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when confronted with an aggressive driver?

Get out of the way, do not challenge them, avoid eye contact, report them. Signup and view all the answers

What are some things you can do to reduce your stress before and while you drive?

Listen to easy music, focus on driving, realistic travel time, be late. Signup and view all the answers

You should use low beams whenever you can.

False Signup and view all the answers

What should you do before you drive if you are drowsy?

Sleep. Signup and view all the answers

What effects can wet brakes cause? How can you avoid these problems?

Make brakes weak, grab unevenly. Avoid by slowing down, gently braking, and testing stops after crossing water. Signup and view all the answers

You should let air out of hot tires so the pressure goes back to normal.

False Signup and view all the answers

You can safely remove the radiator cap as long as the engine isn't overheated.

False Signup and view all the answers

What factors determine your selection of a 'safe' speed when going down a long, steep downgrade?

Total weight of the vehicle and cargo, length and steepness of the grade, road conditions, weather. Signup and view all the answers

Why should you be in the proper gear before starting down a hill?

Because once your speed increases, you cannot shift down. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the proper braking technique when going down a long, steep downgrade.

Apply hard enough to feel a slowdown, when reduced to 5 mph below safe speed, release brakes. Signup and view all the answers

What type of vehicles can get stuck on a railroad-highway crossing?

Low-slung units such as lowboys, car carriers, single axle tractors pulling long trailers. Signup and view all the answers

How long does it take for a typical tractor-trailer unit to clear a double track?

15 seconds. Signup and view all the answers

Stopping is not always the safest thing to do in an emergency.

False Signup and view all the answers

What are some advantages of going right instead of left around an obstacle?

You won't force someone on your left to a head-on collision. Signup and view all the answers

What is an 'escape ramp'?

A traffic device that enables vehicles which are having braking problems to safely stop. Signup and view all the answers

If a tire blows out, you should put the brakes on hard to stop quickly.

False Signup and view all the answers

How do you know if your vehicle has anti-lock brakes?

Check your instrument panel for a yellow ABS indicator light. Signup and view all the answers

What is the proper braking technique when driving a vehicle with anti-lock brakes?

Use only enough force to stop, brake the same way if one has ABS, monitor tractor and trailer. Signup and view all the answers

How do anti-lock brakes help you?

ABS helps you avoid wheel lock-up and maintain control. Signup and view all the answers

What are some things to do at an accident scene to prevent another accident?

Protect the accident area, notify authorities, care for the injured, put on your flashers. Signup and view all the answers

Name two causes of tire fires.

Under-inflated tires and duals that touch. Signup and view all the answers

What kinds of fires is A: B: C extinguisher not good for?

Fires in combustible metals. Signup and view all the answers

When using your extinguisher, should you get as close as possible to the fire?

False Signup and view all the answers

Name some causes of vehicle fires.

After accidents, spilled fuel, tire issues, electrical system shorts. Signup and view all the answers

Common medicines for colds can make you sleepy.

False Signup and view all the answers

Coffee and a little fresh air will help a drinker sober up.

False Signup and view all the answers

What is a hazardous materials placard?

Hazardous materials are products that pose a risk during transportation. Signup and view all the answers

Why are placards used?

Placards are used to warn others of hazardous materials. Signup and view all the answers

What four things related to cargo are drivers responsible for?

Inspecting cargo, recognizing overloads, properly secured, knowing access to emergency equipment. Signup and view all the answers

How often must you stop while on the road to check your cargo?

Every 3 hours or 150 miles. Signup and view all the answers

How is Gross Combination Weight Rating different from Gross Combination Weight?

GCWR is the maximum weight, while GCA is the total weight of vehicle plus load. Signup and view all the answers

Name two situations where legal maximum weights may not be safe.

Bad weather, mountains. Signup and view all the answers

What can happen if you don't have enough weight on the front axle?

Make the steering axle weight too light to steer safely. Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum number of tie-downs for any flatbed load?

<ol start="2"> <li></li> </ol> Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum number of tie-downs for a 20-foot load?

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Name the two basic reasons for covering cargo on an open bed.

To protect people from spilled cargo and to protect the cargo from weather. Signup and view all the answers

What must you check before transporting a sealed load?

Weight. Signup and view all the answers

Name some things to check in the interior of a bus during a pre-trip inspection.

Handhold and railing, floor covering, signaling devices, emergency exits. Signup and view all the answers

What are some hazardous materials you can transport by bus?

ORM-D (Other Regulated Material Domestic) like hair spray or charcoal. Signup and view all the answers

What are some hazardous materials you can't transport by bus?

Division 2.3 poison gas, liquid Class 6 poison, tear gas. Signup and view all the answers

What is a standee line?

A two-inch line on the floor showing riders where they cannot stand. Signup and view all the answers

Does it matter where you make a disruptive passenger get off the bus?

False Signup and view all the answers

How far from a railroad crossing should you stop?

Between 15 and 50 feet before railroad crossings. Signup and view all the answers

When must you stop before crossing a drawbridge?

Stop at drawbridges that do not have a signal light. Signup and view all the answers

Describe from memory the 'prohibited practices' listed in the manual.

Avoid fueling with riders on board, don't engage with riders while driving. Signup and view all the answers

The rear door of a transit bus has to be open to put on the parking brake.

False Signup and view all the answers

Why must air tanks be drained?

The water and oil tend to collect in the bottom of the air tank. Signup and view all the answers

What is a supply pressure gauge used for?

To let you know how much pressure you have. Signup and view all the answers

All vehicles with air brakes must have a low air pressure warning signal.

False Signup and view all the answers

What are spring brakes?

An emergency brake system. Signup and view all the answers

Front wheel brakes are good under all conditions.

False Signup and view all the answers

How do you know if your vehicle is equipped with anti-lock brakes?

Check the certification label for ABS information. Signup and view all the answers

Define the danger zone. How far does the danger zone extend around the bus?

The danger zone is the area around the bus, extending 10 feet. Signup and view all the answers

What should you be able to see if the outside flat mirrors are adjusted properly?

Outside flat mirror should show the rear tires touching the ground and at least one traffic lane. Signup and view all the answers

You are loading students along the route. When should you activate your alternating flashing amber warning lights?

200 feet (100 urban) in advance. Signup and view all the answers

You are unloading students along your route. Where should students walk to after exiting the bus?

10 feet away from the side of the bus. Signup and view all the answers

After unloading at school, why should you walk through the bus?

To look for hiding/sleeping students and items left by students. Signup and view all the answers

What position should students be in front of the bus before they cross the roadway?

10 feet in front of the right corner of the bumper. Signup and view all the answers

Under what conditions must you evacuate the bus?

In an emergency. Signup and view all the answers

How far from the nearest rail should you stop at a highway-rail crossing?

Between 15 - 50 feet. Signup and view all the answers

What is a passive highway-rail crossing? Why should you be extra cautious at this type of crossing?

No traffic control devices; you have to be more aware. Signup and view all the answers

What are Active Crossings?

This type of crossing has a traffic control device installed. Signup and view all the answers

What are Advance Warning Signs?

Round, black-on-yellow signs placed ahead of crossings. Signup and view all the answers

What do Pavement Markings mean?

They mean the same as the advance warning sign. Signup and view all the answers

What do Cross-buck Signs indicate?

They mark the crossing and require yielding to trains. Signup and view all the answers

How should you use your brakes if your vehicle is equipped with anti-lock brakes (ABS)?

Brake as you always have. Signup and view all the answers

What is sleep 'debt'?

Owing your body sleep. Signup and view all the answers

What are the danger signals of drowsy driving?

Eyes closing, trouble keeping head up, yawning, disconnected thoughts. Signup and view all the answers

What are two causes of tire fires?

Under-inflated tires and duals that touch. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance

Pre-trip inspections ensure safety for the driver and others on the road.
Key components to check during trips include tires, brakes, lights, and cargo securement devices.
Insufficient tire tread depth can impair grip; minimum is 4/32 inch for front tires, 2/32 inch for others.

Steering and Suspension Systems

Essential parts of the steering system: steering wheel, gears, drag link, and steering arms.
Common suspension defects include cracked spring hangers and leaking shock absorbers.

Emergency Equipment and Procedures

Required emergency equipment includes safety gear, emergency contact numbers, and an accident reporting kit.
Always carry three red reflective triangles for roadside visibility and safety.

Safe Driving Practices

Maintain a safe following distance, typically four seconds for a 30-foot vehicle.
Look ahead 12-15 seconds to anticipate lane changes and stops, using mirrors to monitor surroundings.

Handling Hazards and Distractions

Recognize hazards and prepare emergency plans to extend reaction time.
Avoid distractions by preprogramming devices, clearing the vehicle of unnecessary items, and maintaining focus.

Dealing with Aggression and Stress

Distinguish between aggressive driving (rude behavior) and road rage (intent to harm).
Use calming strategies to manage stress, such as listening to easy music and allowing extra travel time.

Vehicle Braking Techniques

Test hydraulic brake systems for leaks by holding the pedal after pumping.
Proper braking on steep downgrades involves gradual pressure and releasing when speed is safe.

Railroad and Hazard Awareness

Stop between 15-50 feet from railroad crossings; be extra cautious at passive crossings with no signals.
Recognize warning signs and pavement markings that indicate proximity to railroad crossings.

Cargo Safety and Load Management

Check cargo regularly every three hours or 150 miles to ensure proper weight distribution.
Minimum of two tie-downs is required for flatbed loads, ensuring safety during transport.

Student Safety on Buses

Activate flashing amber lights 200 feet before loading or unloading students.
Always walk through the bus after unloading to check for any students left behind.

Tires and Fire Safety

Tire fires can arise from under-inflation or dual tires touching; be vigilant to prevent such hazards.
Fire extinguishers should be used safely from a distance, and many common causes of vehicle fires should be recognized to prevent accidents.

Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)

Identify vehicles equipped with ABS by checking the instrument panel for an ABS indicator.
When using ABS, brake normally; the system prevents wheel lock-up during emergency stops.

Drowsy Driving Awareness

Sleep debt indicates a deficiency in adequate rest, affecting driving performance.
Signs of drowsy driving include difficulty focusing, yawning, and erratic vehicle control.

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Description

This quiz focuses on the essential knowledge required for a CDL Class B certification. It covers vehicle inspection, safety checks during trips, and critical steering considerations. Perfect for aspiring commercial drivers to reinforce their understanding of safety and operational protocols.