Michigan DMV CDL Test Flashcards

CDL Test Key Concepts

• Axle Weight: Refers to the weight transmitted to the ground by one axle or a set of axles.

• Backing Safety: Always dangerous; it's best to back and turn to the driver's side when possible.

• Cargo Inspection: Cargo must be inspected 25 or 50 miles depending on state law, and again after 3 hours or 150 miles.

• Tire Inspection in Heat: Inspect tires every 2 hours or 100 miles during hot weather.

• Turn Signal Use: Should be activated at least 100 feet before turning or changing lanes.

• Warning Stopped Vehicles: Move a rear reflective triangle back to within 500 feet if visibility is obscured.

• Wet Brakes Management: Gently apply brakes, increase engine RPM, or slow down while engaging low gear to avoid wet brake effects.

• Hazardous Materials Rule: You can transport hazardous materials without a specific endorsement if no placards are required.

• Steering and Exhaust Issues: Fix steering play exceeding 10 degrees (2 inches on a 20-inch wheel) before driving.

• Mirror Usage: Important for checking tire and cargo condition and the vehicle's position during turns.

Operational Safety

• Reaction Distance: Distance traveled from the moment the brain signals to the foot pressing the brake pedal.

• Mud Flap Minimum: Must be within 8 inches of the road surface.

• Cargo Responsibility: Drivers must recognize overloads and ensure cargo is secured and covered.

• Work Zones Precautions: Watch for sharp pavement drop-offs while driving through work zones.

• Acceleration Effects: Rough accelerations do not typically cause tire damage.

• Escape Ramps: Designed to help slow vehicles on downgrades, located a few miles from the peak.

• Tie-Down Strength: Cargo tie-downs must have a combined strength to lift 1.5 times the weight of the cargo.

Driving Techniques and Guidelines

• Town Driving: Look 1 block ahead.

• Steep Grade Braking: Release brake pressure when 5 mph below safe speed and allow speed to return to safe before repeating.

• Steering System Parts: Key components include tie rods, spindles, and pitman arms.

• Tread Depth: Minimum tread depth for tires, excluding front ones, is 2/32 inch.

• Wet Brake Risks: Wet brakes can cause trailer jackknifing if applied suddenly after rain.

• Safety Equipment: Consider carrying emergency phone numbers, tire chains, and tire changing equipment.

Hazard Awareness

• Defensive Driving: The best drivers anticipate hazards and are prepared.

• Vehicle Fire Causes: Poor trailer ventilation can lead to flammable cargo catching fire.

• Night Driving Requirements: For loads extending beyond the rear, two red lights must be visible at the end.

• Retarders Function: Helps slow the vehicle and reduces brake wear, but can also cause skidding on poor traction.

Emergency Procedures

• Accident Scene Protocol: Protect the scene immediately if no CB radio is available.

• Rental Driver Caution: Short-term rental truck drivers may be inexperienced and present hazards.

• Cargo Responsibilities: Includes inspecting, recognizing overloads, and securing cargo.

• Right Shoulder Recovery: If on the shoulder, stop completely if possible before returning to the road.

• Containerized Loads: Typically used when freight is partially transported by rail or ship.

Maintenance and Mechanical Knowledge

• Pre-trip Inspection: Exclude valve clearance from routine checks in the engine compartment.

• Railroad Track Clearance: Takes 14 seconds for a single track and over 15 seconds for a double track.

• Traffic Light Caution: Slow down when approaching a long-green light to prepare for possible stops.

• Stab Braking: Involves only releasing brakes after wheels lock up.

• Cold Weather Tactics: Tires must provide enough traction for safe driving through snow.

Equipment Understanding

• Safety Valve Setting: Usually opens at 150 psi.

• Braking on Downgrade: Brakes act as a supplement to engine braking.

• Supply Pressure Gauge: Indicates the amount of air in the air tank.

• Air Tank Maintenance: Drain at the end of each day to prevent freezing-related brake failures.

Driving Maneuvers and Strategies

• Drive-Wheel Skids: Correct by countersteering.

• Traffic Emergencies: In emergencies, you can maneuver around obstacles more quickly than stoping.

• Slack Adjuster Check: Use gloves to test each slack adjuster by pulling forcefully.

• Perception Distance: The distance traveled from seeing a hazard to recognizing it mentally.