ELDT Backing and Docking 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When backing a tractor-trailer, which mirrors should you use primarily to guide the trailer?
- Only the left mirror
- Both side mirrors alternately (Correct answer)
- Only the right mirror
- The center rearview mirror
Correct answer: Both side mirrors alternately
You should use both side mirrors alternately to track the trailer's path and detect any drift to either side while backing.
Question 2: What does the acronym G.O.A.L. stand for in commercial vehicle backing?
- Get Out And Look (Correct answer)
- Go Only After Leaving
- Guide On All Lanes
- Get Out And Listen
Correct answer: Get Out And Look
G.O.A.L. stands for 'Get Out And Look,' reminding drivers to physically exit the cab and inspect the area before and during backing.
Question 3: When is it best to position your vehicle for a dock backing maneuver?
- As close to the dock as possible before starting
- At a 45-degree angle to the dock with adequate pull-up room (Correct answer)
- Directly in front of the dock space
- At a 90-degree angle on the opposite side of the lot
Correct answer: At a 45-degree angle to the dock with adequate pull-up room
Starting at approximately a 45-degree angle to the dock with adequate pull-up room gives the driver the best control over trailer placement.
Question 4: When the steering wheel is turned LEFT while backing a tractor-trailer, which way does the rear of the trailer move?
- Left
- Right (Correct answer)
- Straight back
- The trailer does not respond immediately
Correct answer: Right
Turning the steering wheel left while backing causes the tractor to go left, which pushes the rear of the trailer to the right.
Question 5: How often should you apply G.O.A.L. during a backing maneuver?
- Only once at the start
- Only if you feel unsure
- As many times as necessary throughout the maneuver (Correct answer)
- Only if another person is not spotting for you
Correct answer: As many times as necessary throughout the maneuver
Drivers should get out and look as many times as necessary throughout the backing maneuver to ensure the path remains clear.
Question 6: What is the safest way to back a commercial vehicle when a spotter is available?
- Ignore the spotter and rely on mirrors only
- Keep the spotter in sight in your mirror at all times and stop if you lose sight of them (Correct answer)
- Allow the spotter to stand directly behind the trailer
- Back quickly to minimize time in the danger zone
Correct answer: Keep the spotter in sight in your mirror at all times and stop if you lose sight of them
You must keep the spotter visible in your mirror at all times; if you lose sight of them, stop immediately because they may be in a dangerous position.
Question 7: Why is it generally recommended to back to the driver's side rather than the passenger's side when possible?
- Passenger-side backing is illegal in most states
- Driver-side backing provides better mirror visibility of the trailer (Correct answer)
- Backing to the driver's side is faster
- The trailer steers more predictably on the driver's side
Correct answer: Driver-side backing provides better mirror visibility of the trailer
Driver-side backing allows the driver to see the trailer clearly in the left mirror, providing much better visibility than passenger-side backing.
ELDT Backing and Docking 1
When backing a tractor-trailer, which mirrors should you use primarily to guide the trailer?