ELDT - Entry Level Driver Training Skid Control and Recovery Questions and Answers

Question 1

While driving on a slippery road, the rear of your tractor begins to slide to the right. To correct this drive-wheel skid, what is the proper steering input?

Accepted Answer

Steer to the right, in the direction of the skid.

Answer

When the rear of the vehicle skids, the driver must steer in the same direction that the rear is sliding. This action, known as counter-steering, helps to realign the tractor with the trailer and regain control.

Question 2

A driver is operating a tractor-trailer and the front wheels lose traction, causing the vehicle to continue straight ahead despite turning the steering wheel. This is known as a front-wheel skid. Which of the following is the correct recovery action?

Accepted Answer

Take your foot off the accelerator and avoid braking.

Answer

In a front-wheel skid, the tires have lost their grip. The primary goal is to let the wheels regain traction. Taking your foot off the accelerator allows the vehicle to slow, and avoiding the brakes prevents them from locking, which would prolong the skid.

Question 3

What is the most common cause of skids in a commercial motor vehicle?

Accepted Answer

Driving too fast for road conditions

Answer

Driving too fast for the conditions (e.g., rain, ice, curves) is the leading cause of skids. Exceeding a safe speed reduces the available traction and gives the driver less time to react to hazards, making a loss of control more likely.

Question 4

You are driving a tractor-trailer when the trailer wheels lock up, causing the trailer to swing out and start to jackknife. What is the FIRST and most critical action to take?

Accepted Answer

Release the service brakes.

Answer

A trailer jackknife is often caused by the trailer's wheels locking up. Releasing the service brake pedal is the crucial first step to allow the wheels to start rolling again, which is necessary to regain traction and stop the skid.

Question 5

Which of the following actions is a critical technique for preventing skids while descending a long, steep grade?

Accepted Answer

Selecting an appropriate low gear before starting the descent.

Answer

Using the engine's braking power by selecting a low gear is the correct method for controlling speed on downgrades. This prevents the service brakes from overheating and fading, which could lead to a loss of braking ability and cause a skid.

Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) Practice Test

Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) Practice Test

ELDT - Entry Level Driver Training Skid Control and Recovery Questions and Answers