CDL · Emergencies
Your brakes give out while you are going down a long grade. What is the best thing to do?
Correct answer: Head for an escape ramp, if there is one.
Answer options
- ASwitch off the engine without delay
- BPump the brake pedal three times in a row
- CHead for an escape ramp, if there is one Correct
Why
When brakes fail on a long downgrade, you have to rely on something outside the vehicle to stop it, and escape ramps are built for exactly that job. Pumping the pedal is unlikely to bring the brakes back, and turning off the engine only takes away engine braking.
About this question
Topic: Emergencies License: CDL
Part of these practice sets:
Where it applies: Asked in every state.
Practice the whole set
This question is part of Mountain Grades and Brake Fade (16 questions). Take the full set and check your score.
Practice Mountain Grades and Brake FadeMore questions from Mountain Grades and Brake Fade
- On a long, steep downgrade, your speed has crept up to your "safe" speed. About how far below that speed should you brake before releasing the brakes?
- On a steep downhill grade, what should do most of the work of slowing your vehicle?
- Which of these can make your brakes fade?
- Using the service brakes too much makes them overheat. What can that excess heat do?
- Your tanker's brakes have failed and an escape ramp for trucks lies ahead. Should you use it?
- Partway down a long, steep grade, your brakes overheat and stop working. What is your best course of action?
- On a long, steep downgrade, which braking method should you use?
- What is an escape ramp, like the one shown, meant for?
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