Illinois CDL Drivers Test Flashcards

Questions and Answers

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

Safety

What things should you check during a trip?

Tires, 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 arms, steering wheel shaft, tie rod, steering gear box, pitman arm, drag link, steering ring knuckle, spindle.

Name some suspension system defects.

Spring hangers that move, cracked or broken spring hangers, missing or broken leaves, leaking shock absorbers, torque rod arm. Signup and view all the answers

What three kinds of emergency equipment must you have?

Fire extinguisher, spare fuses, warning devices (triangles). Signup and view all the answers

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

Front 4/32, rear 2/32. Signup and view all the answers

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

Condition of front axle, steering system, windshield, lights and reflectors. Signup and view all the answers

What should wheel bearing seals be checked for?

Not leaking. Signup and view all the answers

How many red reflective triangles should you carry?

3 Signup and view all the answers

How do you test hydraulic brakes for leaks?

Pump brake pedal 3 times, then apply firm pressure to pedal and hold for 5 seconds. The pedal should not move. Signup and view all the answers

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

So no one can steal your vehicle. Signup and view all the answers

Why should you back toward the driver's side?

So you can see better. Signup and view all the answers

If stopped on a hill, how can you start moving without rolling back?

Partly engage the clutch before you take your right foot off the brake. Signup and view all the answers

When backing, why is it important to use a helper?

So they can help you see and so they can check your blind spots. Signup and view all the answers

What's the most important hand signal that you and the helper should agree on?

Stop Signup and view all the answers

What are the two special conditions where you should downshift?

Before starting down a hill and before entering a curve. Signup and view all the answers

When should you downshift automatic transmissions?

You can select a low range to get greater braking when going down grades. Signup and view all the answers

Retarders keep you from skidding when the road is slippery. True or False?

False Signup and view all the answers

What are the two ways to know when to shift?

RPM and MPH. Signup and view all the answers

How far ahead does the manual say you should look?

12-15 seconds. Signup and view all the answers

What are two main things to look for ahead?

Vehicles coming onto the highway, into your lane or turning and brake lights. Signup and view all the answers

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

Check your mirrors. Signup and view all the answers

What does 'communicating' mean in safe driving?

Signal your intentions. Signup and view all the answers

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

10 feet, 100 feet, 200 feet toward the approaching traffic. Signup and view all the answers

What three things add up to total stopping distance?

Perception, reaction, braking. Signup and view all the answers

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

True Signup and view all the answers

Empty trucks have the best braking. True or False?

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 you can see the road underneath. Signup and view all the answers

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

1 second for each 10 feet of vehicle going 40 mph and under. Add 1 second if going over 40 mph. 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. True or False?

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 or False?

True Signup and view all the answers

What is a hazard?

Any road condition or road user that is a possible danger. Signup and view all the answers

Why make emergency plans when you see a hazard?

So you can be a prepared, defensive driver who will improve your own safety as well as the safety of all road users. Signup and view all the answers

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

Review all safety and usage features on any in-vehicle electronics, pre-program radio stations, clear the vehicle of any unnecessary objects, plan your route ahead, adjust mirrors before trip. Signup and view all the answers

How do you use in-vehicle communications equipment cautiously?

Pull off the road, position the cell phone within easy reach, keep conversations short. Signup and view all the answers

How do you recognize a distracted driver?

Vehicles that are drifting in or out of their lane, vehicles traveling at inconsistent speeds, drivers who are preoccupied with maps, food, etc., drivers who appear to be involved in conversation with their passengers. Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between aggressive driving and road rage?

Aggressive driving is selfish or bold or pushy. Road rage is an intent of doing harm to others or physically assaulting a driver or their vehicle. Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when confronted with an aggressive driver?

Get out of their way, avoid eye contact, don't react, report it to the authorities. 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 listening' music, do not become distracted, be realistic about drive times, give others the benefit of the doubt, be cautious and courteous. Signup and view all the answers

You should use low beams whenever you can. True or False?

False Signup and view all the answers

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

Get some sleep. Signup and view all the answers

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

Cause the brakes to be weak, apply unevenly or grab. Avoid deep puddles or flowing water. Signup and view all the answers

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

False Signup and view all the answers

You can safely remove the radiator cap as long as the engine isn't overheated. True or False?

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

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

You may not be able to shift into a lower gear. Signup and view all the answers

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

Apply the brakes just hard enough to feel a definite slowdown, when your speed has been reduced to about 5 mph below your 'safe' speed, release the brakes, when your speed has increased to your 'safe' speed, repeat the above. Signup and view all the answers

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

Low slung units and single-axle tractor pulling a long trailer with its landing gear set to accommodate a tandem-axle trailer. 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. True or False?

True Signup and view all the answers

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

If a driver is coming at you, they may realize what has happened and their natural response is to steer back to their lane. Signup and view all the answers

What is an 'escape ramp'?

Made to stop runaway vehicles without injuring people. Signup and view all the answers

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

False Signup and view all the answers

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

There will be a yellow ABS malfunction lamp. Signup and view all the answers

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

Brake normal just as you always do. Signup and view all the answers

How do anti-lock brakes help you?

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 area, notify authorities, care for the injured. 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? True or False?

False Signup and view all the answers

Name some causes of vehicle fires.

After accidents, tires, electrical systems, cargo. Signup and view all the answers

Common medicines for colds can make you sleepy. True or False?

True Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you become sleepy while driving?

Stop to sleep, take a nap, avoid drugs. Signup and view all the answers

Coffee and a little fresh air will help a drinker sober up. True or False?

False Signup and view all the answers

What is a hazardous materials placard?

Signs put on the outside of a vehicle that identify the hazard class of the cargo. Signup and view all the answers

Why are placards used?

To warn others of hazardous materials. Signup and view all the answers

What is 'sleep debt'?

Not getting enough sleep. Signup and view all the answers

What are the danger signals of drowsy driving?

Your eyes close or go out of focus, cannot stop yawning, wandering or disconnected thoughts, don't remember driving the last few miles, drift between lanes, tailgate. Signup and view all the answers

What four things related to cargo are drivers responsible for?

Inspecting your cargo, weight and balance, securing cargo, cargo needing special attention. Signup and view all the answers

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

After you have driven for 3 hours and every break you take. Signup and view all the answers

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

The GVW is for a single vehicle plus its load. The GCW is for a specific combination vehicle plus its load. Signup and view all the answers

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

Bad weather or in mountains. Signup and view all the answers

What can happen if you do not have enough weight on the front axle?

Cause poor traction. Signup and view all the answers

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

1 tie down for each 10 feet of cargo. Signup and view all the answers

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

2 Signup and view all the answers

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

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

What must you check before transporting a sealed load?

Check that you do not exceed gross weight and axle weight limits. Signup and view all the answers

Why must air tanks be drained?

To prevent freezing and brake failure. Signup and view all the answers

What is a supply pressure gauge used for?

Tell you how much pressure is in the air tanks. Signup and view all the answers

All vehicles with air brakes must have a low air pressure warning signal. True or False?

True Signup and view all the answers

What are spring brakes?

Powerful springs are held back by air pressure. Signup and view all the answers

Front-wheel brakes are good under all conditions. True or False?

True Signup and view all the answers

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

Check the certification label for the date. Anything after 1998 will have ABS. There will be a yellow malfunction lamp. Signup and view all the answers

What is a dual air brake system?

Two separate air brake systems, which house a single set of brake controls. Signup and view all the answers

What are the slack adjusters?

Help you keep your brakes in adjustment. Signup and view all the answers

How can you check slack adjusters?

Chock wheels, release parking brake, use gloves and pull hard on each slack adjuster. Signup and view all the answers

How can you test the low pressure warning signal?

After you have enough air pressure, shut off the engine. Turn electrical power on and step on and off the brake pedal to reduce air tank pressure. The warning signal must come on before the pressure drops to less than 60 PSI in the air tank. Signup and view all the answers

How can you check that the spring brakes come on automatically?

Step on and off the brake pedal to reduce tank pressure. The protection valve and parking brake valve should close (pop out). Some vehicles the air pressure falls to 20-45 PSI. Signup and view all the answers

What are the maximum leakage rates?

3 pounds in 1 minute (single vehicle) 4 pounds in 1 minute (combination vehicle). Signup and view all the answers

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

So you don't have to ride the brakes. Signup and view all the answers

What factors can cause brakes to fade or fail?

Excessive heat. Signup and view all the answers

The use of brakes on a long, steep downgrade is only a supplement to the braking effect of the engine. True or False?

True Signup and view all the answers

If you are away from your vehicle only a short time, you do not need to use the parking brake. True or False?

False Signup and view all the answers

How often should you drain air tanks?

At the end of each day of driving. Signup and view all the answers

How do you brake when you drive a tractor-trailer combination with ABS?

As you always do. Normally. Signup and view all the answers

You still have normal brake functions if your ABS is not working. True or False?

True Signup and view all the answers

What two things are important to prevent rollover?

Go slow around curves and keep cargo as close to the ground as possible. Signup and view all the answers

When you turn suddenly while pulling doubles, which trailer is most likely to turn over?

Last trailer. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Vehicle Safety and Inspection

Safety is the primary reason for conducting vehicle inspections.
Essential checks during trips include tires, brakes, lights, reflectors, trailer connections, coupling devices, and cargo securement devices.
Key steering system parts consist of the steering wheel, arms, tie rod, gear box, and ring knuckle.

Suspension and Mechanical Defects

Suspension system defects include cracked spring hangers, leaking shock absorbers, and torque rod issues.
It is crucial to inspect wheel bearing seals for leaks during safety checks.

Emergency Equipment and Procedures

Vehicles must carry a fire extinguisher, spare fuses, and warning devices like reflective triangles for emergencies.
Inspecting the front axle, steering system, windshield, and lights is vital during walk-around inspections.

Tread Depth and Tire Maintenance

Minimum tread depth requirements are front tires at 4/32 inches and rear tires at 2/32 inches.
Warning signs of inadequate tire conditions include reduced traction and potential hydroplaning risks.

Driving Techniques and Safety Measures

Testing hydraulic brakes involves pumping the brake pedal multiple times and holding for five seconds to ensure no movement occurs.
When stopped on a hill, engage the clutch partially before releasing the brake to prevent rollback.
Utilize a helper when backing up for improved visibility and safety.

Shift Techniques and Speed Management

Downshifting should occur before entering curves or descending hills to maintain control.
Proper following distance is determined by vehicle speed and size, generally recommended to be 1 second for each 10 feet of vehicle length, adding extra time for speed over 40 mph.

Hazard Awareness and Emergency Planning

A hazard is defined as any road condition or user that could pose a danger.
Making emergency plans in response to perceived hazards improves safety for all drivers.

Communication and Reaction to Distracted Driving

Safe driving involves signaling your intentions and maintaining awareness of surrounding vehicles.
Recognize distracted drivers by erratic lane changes, inconsistent speeds, and improper vehicle handling.

Braking Systems and Techniques

Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) help maintain control and prevent wheel lock-up during braking.
Proper braking technique with ABS involves braking normally, taking advantage of the system's capabilities.

Cargo Management and Regulations

Drivers must inspect and secure cargo, ensuring weight distribution and compliance with legal limits.
Right number of tie-downs is essential: one for every 10 feet of cargo length, with a minimum of two for a 20-foot load.

Air Brake Systems and Maintenance

Air tanks should be drained regularly to prevent freezing and brake failure.
Know the low air pressure warning signals and the function of dual air brake systems in vehicles.

Driving Under Various Conditions

Be cautious in bad weather or mountainous areas; maximum legal weights may not be safe in these conditions.
Understand the effects of excessive heat on braking performance, as it may lead to brake fade or failure.

Stress Management and Drowsy Driving

Combat drowsiness by taking breaks, avoiding drugs, and getting adequate sleep before driving.
Symptoms of drowsy driving include frequent yawning, difficulty focusing, and drifting between lanes.

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Description

Prepare for the Illinois CDL driver's test with these flashcards. Each card focuses on critical vehicle safety protocols and essential components for inspection. Enhance your knowledge on what to check before, during, and after your trip to ensure safety and compliance.