- Theoretical Driving Course Handling Roadside Emergencies Flashcards

If your brakes fail completely while driving downhill, what should you do?

Answer: Pump the brake pedal rapidly, downshift to lower gears, and look for a safe area to stop

Pumping may restore partial brake pressure, and downshifting uses engine compression to slow the vehicle.

What should a driver do if they encounter a downed power line on the road?

Answer: Stay inside the vehicle and call emergency services

A downed power line may be energized, and the vehicle's rubber tires provide insulation.

During a sudden earthquake while driving, a driver should:

Answer: Slowly pull over away from overpasses, bridges, and power lines, and stay inside

Pulling over in an open area away from structures provides the safest shelter.

What is the proper way to change a flat tire on the roadside?

Answer: Loosen the lug nuts slightly while the tire is on the ground, then jack up the car

Loosening the lug nuts while the tire is on the ground prevents the wheel from spinning freely.

If your vehicle stalls on a railroad crossing and a train is approaching, what should you do?

Answer: Get out and run toward the approaching train at an angle away from the tracks

Running toward the train but at an angle away from the tracks protects you from debris thrown forward.

What should a driver do if they smell gasoline inside the vehicle while driving?

Answer: Pull over safely, turn off the engine, evacuate, and do not restart until the cause is found

A gasoline smell indicates a possible fuel leak, which is a fire and explosion hazard.