General Knowledge Core Concepts Flashcards

Which statement about driving in heavy rain is correct?

Answer: Reduce speed and increase following distance to account for reduced traction

Wet roads reduce traction significantly, so you must slow down and leave more space to stop safely.

When driving a CMV, what does 'brake fade' refer to?

Answer: Loss of braking power caused by heat buildup from prolonged or repeated braking

Brake fade occurs when sustained brake use generates so much heat that braking effectiveness is reduced.

What is the correct way to manage speed on a long downhill grade?

Answer: Select a low gear before the descent and use controlled brake applications

You should choose an appropriate low gear before the descent and apply brakes intermittently rather than continuously to prevent fade.

If your vehicle's air pressure drops to the 'emergency' range while driving, what will happen?

Answer: The parking brakes will automatically apply

When air pressure falls to the emergency level (typically around 20-45 psi), spring-loaded parking brakes automatically apply.

Which cargo is most likely to shift during transport and change a vehicle's center of gravity?

Answer: Loose bulk grain in a tanker

Liquid or loose bulk cargo like grain can surge and slosh, causing sudden changes in the vehicle's center of gravity.

What information must a driver's daily log (Record of Duty Status) contain?

Answer: Driver's name, date, total miles, vehicle ID, carrier, and duty status for each change

A complete RODS must show driver name, date, total mileage, vehicle identification, carrier name, and a graph of duty status changes.

A CMV driver who is found to have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.04% or higher while on duty faces:

Answer: Being placed out of service for 24 hours

A BAC at or above 0.04% while operating a CMV results in being placed out of service for 24 hours.