Louisiana CDL Class B Permit Practice Questions

Questions and Answers

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

Safety

What things should you check during a trip?

Tires, wheels, rims, brakes, lights/reflectors

Name some key steering system parts.

Tire rod, steering wheel, steering shaft, steering arm, power steering cylinder, drag link, pitman arm, gear box, hydraulic fluid reservoir, spindle, steering knuckle

Name some suspension system defects.

Spring hangers that allow movement of axle from proper position, cracked or broken spring hangers, missing or broken leaves in any leaf spring, broken leaves in a multi-leaf spring, shifted leaves that might hit a tire or other part Signup and view all the answers

What 3 kinds of emergency equipment must you have?

Liquid flares, reflective triangles, fire extinguisher Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum tread depth for the front tires?

4/32 Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum tread depth for all other tires?

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.

Low beams on and working properly, condition of reflectors/lights, condition of wipers, condition of windshield, condition of front axle, condition of steering system Signup and view all the answers

What should bearing seals be checked for?

Leaks 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 the brake pedal 3 times, apply firm pressure for 5 seconds, then hold and see if the pedal moves. Signup and view all the answers

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

So the vehicle doesn't start or move during the inspection. Signup and view all the answers

Why should you back towards the driver's side?

It allows you to see better. Signup and view all the answers

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

Use parking brake. Signup and view all the answers

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

Backing is always dangerous. Signup and view all the answers

What is 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 proceeding down a steep grade and before a curve. Signup and view all the answers

When should you downshift automatic transmissions?

Going down grades. Signup and view all the answers

Retarders keep you from skidding when the road is slippery.

False Signup and view all the answers

What are the two ways to know when to shift?

Speedometer or tachometer. Signup and view all the answers

How far ahead does the manual say you should look?

12 to 15 seconds ahead. Signup and view all the answers

What are the two main things to look for ahead?

Traffic and road conditions. Signup and view all the answers

What is 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 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 approaching traffic. Signup and view all the answers

What 3 things add up to total stopping distance?

Perception distance + reaction distance + braking distance. Signup and view all the answers

If you go twice as fast, will your stopping distance increase by 2 or 4 times?

Four. Signup and view all the answers

Empty trucks have the best braking.

False Signup and view all the answers

What is hydroplaning?

When your tires lose traction with the road. Signup and view all the answers

What is black ice?

Thin layer of ice on the road that you can see the road through. Signup and view all the answers

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

One second for each 10 feet of vehicle length at speeds below 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.

False Signup and view all the answers

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

True Signup and view all the answers

What is a hazard?

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

Why make emergency plans when you see a hazard?

You will be a prepared and defensive driver who will improve your own safety as well as the safety of all other road users. Signup and view all the answers

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

Review and familiarize yourself with all electronic devices warnings, pre-program radio stations, clear vehicle of any unnecessary objects, review maps and plan route, avoid eating, drinking or smoking. Signup and view all the answers

How do you use in-vehicle communication equipment cautiously?

Pull off the road, turn off until you have reached your destination, place within reach, pre-program numbers into cellphone. Signup and view all the answers

How do you recognize a distracted driver?

Drifts over lane dividers or drifts in own lane, inconsistent speeds, preoccupied with maps, food, cigarettes, cell phone, etc. Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between aggressive driving and road rage?

Aggressive driving is operating a vehicle in a selfish manner without regard for others' safety. Road rage is operating a vehicle with the intent of doing harm to others. Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when confronted with an aggressive driver?

Get out of their way, avoid eye contact, ignore gestures and refuse to react to 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, full attention to driving, set realistic travel time, give other drivers the benefit of the doubt. Signup and view all the answers

You should use your low beams whenever you can.

False Signup and view all the answers

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

Pull off the road in a safe area and take a nap. Signup and view all the answers

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

Can cause weak braking, apply unevenly or grab; avoid driving through deep water puddles. 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.

True Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

You will not be able to shift to a lower gear; forcing it could damage the transmission. Signup and view all the answers

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

Once in proper low gear: Apply enough brake to feel definite slowdown, release brakes when speed is 5 mph below 'safe' speed, repeat as needed. Signup and view all the answers

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

Low slung units, single axle tractor pulling a long trailer with landing gear set to accommodate a tandem axle tractor. Signup and view all the answers

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

More than 15 seconds. Signup and view all the answers

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

True Signup and view all the answers

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

Shoulder is usually free of drivers; won't force anyone into opposing traffic. Signup and view all the answers

What is an 'escape ramp'?

Made to stop runaway vehicles safely without injuring drivers or passengers. 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?

Yellow ABS malfunction lamps on the instrument panel, look for ECU and wheel sensor wires. Signup and view all the answers

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

Use only braking force necessary to stop safely and stay in control. Signup and view all the answers

How do anti-lock brakes help you?

ABS helps 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 2 causes of tire fires.

Under-inflation, duals that touch. Signup and view all the answers

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

Wood, paper, ordinary combustibles. 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.

Accidents, tires, electrical, fuel, cargo. Signup and view all the answers

Common medicines for colds can make you sleepy.

True Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you become sleepy while driving?

Pull off immediately in a safe place and nap. 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?

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?

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

What is 'sleep debt'?

Amount of sleep you owe to yourself. Signup and view all the answers

What are the danger signals of drowsy driving?

Eyes closing or out of focus, trouble keeping head up, drifting between lanes. Signup and view all the answers

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

Handholds & railings, floor coverings, signaling devices, emergency exit handles, seats. Signup and view all the answers

What are some hazardous materials that you cannot transport by bus?

Tear gas, radioactive materials, explosives, gasoline. Signup and view all the answers

What is a standee line?

Two-inch line 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 rail-road crossing should you stop?

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

When must you stop before crossing a drawbridge?

False Signup and view all the answers

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

Avoid refilling with passengers on board unless absolutely necessary, never refill in a closed building with riders on board. 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 the air tanks be drained?

Water and oil can collect inside and freeze the lines causing damage to the air brake system. Signup and view all the answers

What is the supply pressure gauge used for?

Tells 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 Signup and view all the answers

What are spring brakes?

The emergency brake and parking brake. Signup and view all the answers

Front wheel brakes are good under all conditions.

True Signup and view all the answers

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

Check certification label for date of manufacture to determine if the vehicle is equipped with ABS. Signup and view all the answers

What is a dual air brake system?

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

What are the slack adjusters?

They regulate the amount of slack on the brakes. Signup and view all the answers

How can you check the slack adjusters?

Put on parking brake, chock the wheels, pull on them with a gloved hand to check for more than one inch of play. Signup and view all the answers

How can you test the low pressure warning signal?

Shut off the engine, turn the electrical power back on, step on and off the brake pedal to reduce air tank pressure; low pressure warning should come on before you reach below 60 psi. Signup and view all the answers

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

Continue to fan off the air pressure by stepping on and off the brake pedal to reduce tank pressure; parking brake valve should pop out between 20-40 psi. Signup and view all the answers

What are the maximum leakage rates?

Loss rate should be less than 3 psi in one minute for combination vehicles. Signup and view all the answers

What factors can cause brakes to fade or fail?

Excessive use, improper adjustment. 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 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.

False Signup and view all the answers

How often should you drain air tanks?

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

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

Normally. Signup and view all the answers

You still have normal brake functions if your ABS is not working.

True Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Vehicle Inspection

Vehicle inspection is crucial primarily for safety.
Pre-trip checks should include tires, wheels, rims, brakes, lights, and reflectors.

Steering and Suspension Systems

Key steering parts include tire rod, steering wheel, steering shaft, and power steering cylinder.
Suspension system defects involve cracked spring hangers, missing leaves in leaf springs, and misaligned components.

Emergency Equipment and Tire Regulations

Mandatory emergency equipment includes liquid flares, reflective triangles, and a fire extinguisher.
Minimum tread depth for front tires is 4/32 inches; for all other tires, it's 2/32 inches.

Walk-Around Inspection

Check the condition of low beams, reflectors, lights, wipers, and the steering system during walk-around inspections.

Pre-Trip Safety Protocols

Keep the starter switch key in your pocket during inspections to prevent accidents.
Backing towards the driver's side improves visibility.

Downshifting and Driving Conditions

Downshift before descending steep grades or approaching curves.
Automatic transmission downshifting should occur while going down grades.

Following Distance and Visibility

Look ahead 12 to 15 seconds to maintain awareness of traffic and road conditions.
Use mirrors as the primary method to monitor the sides and rear of the vehicle.

Hazard Awareness and Driver Communication

A hazard is any road condition or user posing a potential danger.
Communicate intentions by signaling effectively while driving.

Emergency and Defensive Driving

Always prepare emergency plans when faced with hazards to enhance safety for yourself and others.
Maintain a safe following distance, calculated as one second per 10 feet of vehicle length below 40 mph.

Handling Aggressive Drivers

Avoid confrontations with aggressive drivers by keeping a safe distance and not engaging.

Weather and Road Conditions

Wet brakes can result from driving through deep water puddles, potentially causing weak or uneven braking.
Hydroplaning occurs when tires lose traction due to wet surfaces; black ice is a thin layer of ice on the road.

Brake Systems and Techniques

Anti-lock brakes (ABS) help prevent wheel lock-up, maintaining vehicle control.
Spring brakes serve as both emergency and parking brakes.

Fire Safety and Hazardous Materials

Common causes of vehicle fires include accidents, tire issues, and electrical problems.
B:C extinguishers are ineffective against wood or paper fires.

Drowsy Driving and Driving Under the Influence

Signs of drowsy driving include loss of focus, frequent yawning, and drifting between lanes.
Drinking coffee or fresh air does not effectively sober a person.

Bus Operations and Safety

Certain hazardous materials, like gasoline and explosives, cannot be transported by bus.
The rear door of the bus does not need to be open to engage the parking brake.

Air Brake Systems

Air tanks must be drained to prevent moisture collection that could freeze and damage the braking system.
Low air pressure warning signals are required on all air brake-equipped vehicles.

General Driving Safety

Do not use the parking brake if away from the vehicle for only a short time; it should always be engaged.
Proper braking technique on long downgrades involves alternating brake application with engine braking.

Maintenance and Monitoring

Regularly check the slack adjusters to ensure proper brake function.
Drain air tanks at the end of each driving day to maintain system efficiency.

Emergency Situations

In emergencies, stopping isn’t always the safest option; evaluate the best course of action based on the situation at hand.

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Description

Prepare for your Louisiana CDL Class B permit with these flashcards, designed to test your knowledge on vehicle inspections and steering systems. Each card covers essential safety checks and key components, ensuring you're well-equipped for your driving exam.