Mississippi CDL General Knowledge Exam

Questions and Answers

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

Safety for yourself and other road users.

What things should you check during a trip?

Watch Gauges - Use senses to check for problems.

When stopped, check critical items?

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, Tie Rod, Steering Shaft, Power Steering Cylinder, Steering Arm, Spindle, Steering Knuckle, Drag Link, Pitman Arm, Gear Box, Hydraulic Fluid Reservoir. Signup and view all the answers

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 a leaf spring, Broken or shifted leaves in a multi-leaf spring, Leaking shock absorbers, Cracked, broken, or missing axle positioning parts, Damaged and/or leaking air suspension systems, Loose, cracked, broken, or missing frame members. Signup and view all the answers

What three types of emergency equipment must you have?

Fire Extinguisher, Spare Electrical Fuses, Warning Devices for Parked Vehicles. 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 the other tires?

2/32". Signup and view all the answers

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

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

What should the wheel bearing seals be checked for?

That they are not leaking. Signup and view all the answers

How many red reflective triangles should you carry?

<ol start="3"> <li></li> </ol> Signup and view all the answers

How do you test hydraulic brakes for leaks?

Pump the brake pedal three times. Then apply firmly for 5 seconds. If the pedal moves, there could 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 the vehicle will not be moved. Signup and view all the answers

Why should you back towards the driver's side?

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

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

Put slight pressure on the gas pedal to increase the RPMs before shifting into gear. Signup and view all the answers

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

There are blind spots that you cannot see. Signup and view all the answers

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

Stop. Signup and view all the answers

What are two special conditions when you should downshift?

Before starting downhill, Before entering a curve. Signup and view all the answers

When should you downshift automatic transmissions?

When going down grades. Signup and view all the answers

Retarders keep you from slipping when the road is slick.

False Signup and view all the answers

What are two ways you know when to shift?

By using the Engine Speed (RPM), By using the Road Speed. Signup and view all the answers

How far ahead does the manual say you should look?

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

What are two main things to look for ahead?

Vehicles coming onto the highway into your lane, Brake lights from slowing vehicles. Signup and view all the answers

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

Checking your mirrors regularly. Signup and view all the answers

What does 'communicating' mean in safe driving?

Signaling what you intend to do. Signup and view all the answers

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

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

What three things add up to total stopping distance?

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

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

Four. Signup and view all the answers

Empty trucks have the best braking.

False Signup and view all the answers

What is hydroplaning?

When the tires lose most if not all of their traction and skid across the road. Signup and view all the answers

What is 'Black Ice'?

A thin layer of ice that is clear enough to see the road underneath. Signup and view all the answers

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

Speed Below 40mph, One second for each 10' of vehicle length - Above 40mph, Use the same formula but add 1 second. Signup and view all the answers

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

4 seconds. Signup and view all the answers

You should decrease your following distance if someone 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 side.

False Signup and view all the answers

What is a hazard?

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

Why make emergency plans when you see a hazard?

Being prepared reduces the danger. Signup and view all the answers

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

Be familiar with all safety and usage features on any in-vehicle electronics. Signup and view all the answers

How do you use in-vehicle communications equipment cautiously?

If possible, pull off the road in a safe, legal place when making or receiving a call. Signup and view all the answers

How do you recognize a distracted driver?

Vehicles that drift over the divider line, Vehicles traveling at inconsistent speeds, Drivers that are occupied with maps, drinks, food, or other objects, Drivers who seem to be involved with conversations with their passengers. Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between aggressive driving and road rage?

Aggressive Driving - The act of operating a motor vehicle in a selfish, bold, or pushy manner without regard for the rights or safety of others; Road Rage - Operating a motor vehicle with the 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 by an aggressive driver?

Make every attempt to get out of their way. Signup and view all the answers

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

Do not allow yourself to be distracted by communication devices, Give yourself plenty of travel time, If late then expected, deal with it, Avoid gestures, Be a cautious and courteous driver. 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 before you drive. Signup and view all the answers

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

Weak brakes, Apply unevenly: Grab - Avoid deep puddles: Slow down and place transmission in a low gear, then gently put on the brakes when going through 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?

Use the same gear going down a hill that you would use going up. 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 downshift after your speed has increased. Signup and view all the answers

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

Apply the brakes until you feel a definite slow down; Once 5mph below the 'safe' speed, release the brakes. Signup and view all the answers

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

Low Slug Units - Single Axle tractor pulling a long trailer with landing gear set for 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.

False Signup and view all the answers

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

If the driver has entered your lane, their natural response when they realize what has happened is to steer back into their lane. Signup and view all the answers

What is an 'escape ramp'?

When there is a brake failure, turning uphill can be a justifiable way to slow the vehicle. Signup and view all the answers

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

False Signup and view all the answers

How do you know if your vehicle has antilock brakes?

Tractors - Will have Yellow ABS malfunction lamps on the instrumental panel; Trailer - Will have Yellow ABS malfunction lamps on the left side. Signup and view all the answers

What is the proper braking technique when driving a vehicle with antilock brakes?

Brake as you normally would. Signup and view all the answers

How do antilock brakes help you?

They keep your brakes from locking so you can steer around obstacles while braking. 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.

Underinflated tires, Duals that touch. Signup and view all the answers

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

Ordinary combustibles, Combustible metals. Signup and view all the answers

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

False Signup and view all the answers

Name some causes of vehicle fires.

Spilled Fuel, Improper use of Flares, Electrical Systems, Smoking while fueling, Flammable cargo improperly sealed. Signup and view all the answers

Common medicines for colds can make you sleepy.

False Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you become sleepy while driving?

Pull off the road in a safe place and sleep. 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?

Signs that are placed on the outside of the vehicle to identify the hazardous class of the cargo. Signup and view all the answers

Why are placards used?

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

What is 'sleep debt'?

If you do not sleep enough, you 'owe' more sleep to yourself. Signup and view all the answers

What are the danger signals of drowsy driving?

Your eyes close or go out of focus by themselves, You have trouble keeping your head up, You can't stop yawning, You have wandering disconnected thoughts, You don't remember driving the last few miles, You keep jerking the truck back into your lane, You drifted off the road and narrowly missed crashing. Signup and view all the answers

What four things related to cargo are drivers responsible for?

Inspecting your cargo, Recognizing overloads and poorly balanced weights, Knowing your cargo is properly secured, Knowing the cargo does not restrict access to emergency equipment. Signup and view all the answers

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

First 50 miles and every 150 miles (3 hours) after the start of the trip. Signup and view all the answers

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

Gross Combined Weight Rating - The Max GCW specified by the manufacturer for a specific combination of vehicles plus its load; Gross Combination Weight - The total weight of a powered unit, plus trailers, plus the cargo. Signup and view all the answers

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

Bad Weather, Mountainous Roads. Signup and view all the answers

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

It can make the steering weight too light to steer safely. Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum number of tiedowns for any flat bed load?

At least two. Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum number of tiedowns for a 20' load?

Two - The rule is to have one tiedown for every 10' of cargo. Signup and view all the answers

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

To protect people from spilling cargo, To protect the 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

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

Each handhold and railing, Floor covering, Signal devices, Emergency exit handles. Signup and view all the answers

What are some hazardous materials you CAN transport by bus?

Explosives, Propane, Oxygen, Helium, Gasoline Fuel, Acetone, Matches, Fuses, Ammonium Nitrate, Hydrogen Peroxide, Pesticides, Arsenic, Uranium, Plutonium, Hydrochloric Acid, Battery Acid, Formaldehyde, Asbestos, Hair Spray, Charcoal, Fuel Oils, Lighter Fluid. Signup and view all the answers

What are some hazardous materials you CANNOT transport by bus?

Ammunitions labeled ORM-D, Emergency hospital supplies, Drugs. Signup and view all the answers

What is a standee line?

A line that tells where the riders can stand. Riders cannot stand forward of the rear of the driver seat. 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 to 50 feet. Signup and view all the answers

When must you stop before crossing a drawbridge?

When there is not a signal light, There is not a traffic control attendant. Signup and view all the answers

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

Avoid fueling your bus with passengers on board unless absolutely necessary, Don't engage in any distractive activity - Talking with riders, Do not tow or push a disabled bus 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 air tanks be drained?

Water or oil will settle in the bottom of the tank. If it freezes in cold weather, it can cause brake failure. Signup and view all the answers

What is a supply pressure gauge used for?

To tell the compressor when to cut-out or cut-in. 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?

Emergency Brakes or Parking Brakes for any vehicle with air brakes - Powerful springs are held back with air pressure. If the pressure decreases, the springs will put on the brakes. 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 antilock brakes?

Trucks that were built on or after March 1, 1997; All other vehicles March 1, 1998; Check the certification label for the date of manufacturing. Signup and view all the answers

What is a dual air brake system?

Has two separate air brake systems that use a single set of braking controls. Signup and view all the answers

What are slack adjusters?

Controls the brake slack in the air brake system; Too much slack makes the vehicle hard to stop. Signup and view all the answers

How can you check slack adjusters?

Chock the wheels after parking on level ground. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Vehicle Inspection and Safety

Vehicle inspections ensure safety for the driver and other road users.
Critical items to check during stops include tires, brakes, lights, and cargo securement devices.
Conduct a walk-around inspection to assess the condition of the front axle, steering system, and windshield.

Steering and Suspension Components

Key steering parts comprise the steering wheel, tie rod, and power steering components.
Common suspension defects include cracked spring hangers, broken leaves in springs, and leaking shock absorbers.

Emergency Equipment and Tire Maintenance

Mandated emergency equipment includes a fire extinguisher, spare electrical fuses, and warning devices like reflective triangles.
Minimum tread depth for front tires is 4/32" and for other tires is 2/32".

Driving Techniques and Handling

Use slight gas pedal pressure to prevent rollback when starting on an incline.
Backing should be done towards the driver’s side for better visibility, ideally using a helper.
Establish agreed signals with your helper; the most important is “Stop”.

Downshifting and Stopping Procedures

Downshift before going downhill and when entering curves for smoother control.
Use engine and road speed to determine shifting, looking 12-15 seconds ahead while driving.

Following Distance and Hazard Recognition

Following distance should be calculated based on vehicle length and speed; maintain at least 4 seconds behind when traveling 55 mph in a 30' vehicle.
Identify hazards like vehicles entering your lane and brake lights.

Managing Distractions and Emergency Situations

Awareness of distractions is critical; use in-vehicle electronics only when safe to do so.
In emergency situations, steering may be safer than hard braking if stopping distance is insufficient.

Cargo Handling and Vehicle Weight

Ensure the correct weight distribution on axles; improper weight can hinder steering control.
Minimum tiedowns for securing cargo is two, with one tiedown for every 10 feet of cargo length.

Bus Operations and Passenger Safety

Inspect the interior of buses for safety features; part of ensuring the safety of passengers includes knowing when to involve authorities with disruptive passengers.
Rail crossings require stopping between 15 to 50 feet; be alert at drawbridges without signals.

Brake Systems and Vehicle Maintenance

Air brake systems must have low-pressure warning signals; spring brakes serve as emergency and parking brakes.
Brake systems require regular checks, including slack adjusters to ensure effectiveness in stopping.

Drowsiness and Substance Awareness

Sleep debt accumulates from insufficient rest; recognize signals of drowsy driving.
Common cold medications can impair alertness and should be avoided before driving.

Hazardous Materials and Signage

Placards are required for identifying hazardous materials shipped by bus, warning others of potential dangers.
Understand what hazardous materials can and cannot be transported by bus to ensure compliance with safety regulations.

Fire Safety and Emergency Preparedness

Causes of vehicle fires often include underinflated tires and electrical issues; use appropriate extinguishers for specific fire types.
At accident scenes, secure the area and assist the injured to prevent follow-up incidents.

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Test your knowledge with flashcards designed for the Mississippi Commercial Driver's License General Knowledge Exam. Each card covers essential topics such as vehicle inspections and safety protocols to ensure a safe driving experience. Prepare effectively for the exam and enhance your understanding of crucial driving regulations.