Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual

MICHIGAN

COMMERCIAL

DRIVER LICENSE

MANUAL

JOCELYN BENSON

SECRETARY OF STATE

MICHIGAN

COMMERCIAL

DRIVER LICENSE

MANUAL

JOCELYN BENSON

SECRETARY OF STATE

The Department of State is an equal opportunity employer and service provider. If you need an

accommodation or have been denied service, please call 888-SOS-MICH (767-6424). Hearing-

impaired customers may access the department’s telephone number by calling the Michigan Relay

Center at 711.

TS-004 (Rev. 09/19)

22,800; PA 300, 1949 as amended; $15,055.34

Cover photo courtesy of the Michigan Department of Transportation Photography Unit.

49081_Ts-004 CDL Manual_Cover_r1.indd 1-349081_Ts-004 CDL Manual_Cover_r1.indd 1-3 5/21/21 9:13 AM5/21/21 9:13 AM

MICHIGAN

COMMERCIAL

DRIVER LICENSE

MANUAL

JOCELYN BENSON

SECRETARY OF STATE

The Department of State is an equal opportunity employer and service provider. If you need an

accommodation or have been denied service, please call 888-SOS-MICH (767-6424). Hearing-

impaired customers may access the department’s telephone number by calling the Michigan Relay

Center at 711.

TS-004 (Rev. 09/19)

22,800; PA 300, 1949 as amended; $15,055.34

Cover photo courtesy of the Michigan Department of Transportation Photography Unit.

49081_Ts-004 CDL Manual_Cover_r1.indd 1-349081_Ts-004 CDL Manual_Cover_r1.indd 1-3 5/21/21 9:13 AM5/21/21 9:13 AM

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Note: Throughout this manual, a commercial motor vehicle will be referred to as

a “CMV” and a Commercial Driver License as a “CDL.”

Due to frequent changes in federal and state regulations, the Michigan Department of

State cannot ensure the accuracy of the material contained in the Michigan

Commercial Driver License Manual beyond the date of publication.

To obtain current information, please visit Michigan.gov/SOS.

This document is not intended for legal purposes.

This material is based upon work supported by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety

Administration under Cooperative Agreement No. DTFH61-9-X-00017. Any opinions,

finding, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of

the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the Federal Motor Carrier

Safety Administration.

This material has been created for and provided to State Driver License Agencies (SDLAs) by AAMVA for the

purpose of educating Driver License applicants (Commercial or Non-Commercial). Permission to reproduce, use,

distribute or sell this material has been granted to SDLAs only. No part of this book may be reproduced or

transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any

information storage and retrieval system without express written permission from the author/publisher. Any

unauthorized reprint, use, distribution or sale of this material is prohibited.

Human trafficking is modern-day slavery. Traffickers use force, fraud, and coercion to control their victims.

Any minor engaged in commercial sex is a victim of human trafficking. Trafficking can occur in many

locations, including truck stops, restaurants, rest areas, brothels, strip clubs, private homes, etc. Truckers

are the eyes and the ears of our nation’s highways. If you see a minor working any of those areas or suspect

pimp control, call the National Hotline and report your tip:

1-888-373-7888 (US)

1-800-222-TIPS (Canada)

For law enforcement to open an investigation on your tip, they need “actionable information.” Specific tips

helpful when reporting to the hotline would include:

▪ Descriptions of cars (make, model, color, license plate number, etc.) and people (height, weight, hair

color, eye color, age, etc.)

▪ Take a picture if you can

▪ Specific times and dates (When did you see the event in question take place? What day was it?)

▪ Addresses and locations where suspicious activity took place

Trafficking Red Flags to Look for:

▪ Lack of knowledge of their community or whereabouts

▪ Not in control of own identification documents (ID/passport)

▪ Restricted or controlled communication--not allowed to speak for self

▪ Demeanor: fear, anxiety, depression, submissive, tense, nervous

Questions to Ask:

▪ Are you being paid?

▪ Are you being watched or followed?

▪ Are you free to leave? Come and go as you please?

▪ Are you physically or sexually abused? Are you or your family threatened? What is the nature of the

threats?

Report by Email: Report@PolarisProject.org

Warning: Please do not approach traffickers. Call the hotline, and they will call the FBI and local police

to deal with them and rescue the victims. Approaching traffickers is not only dangerous for you and

their victims but could lead to problems in the eventual prosecution of traffickers. Go to

www.truckersagainsttrafficking.org for more information.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

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Table of Contents

PART ONE - Overview

Section 1: Introduction to Michigan’s Commercial Driver License Program ....................................... 1

Section 2: Driving Safely .................................................................................................................. 19

Section 3: Transporting Cargo Safely .............................................................................................. 63

PART TWO - Endorsements

Section 4: Transporting Passengers Safely ..................................................................................... 67

Section 5: Air Brakes ....................................................................................................................... 71

Section 6: Combination Vehicles ..................................................................................................... 81

Section 7: Doubles and Triples ........................................................................................................ 95

Section 8: Tank Vehicles ................................................................................................................. 99

Section 9: Hazardous Materials ..................................................................................................... 101

Section 10: School Buses .............................................................................................................. 121

PART THREE – Skills Tests

Section 11: Vehicle Inspection Test ............................................................................................... 131

Section 12: Basic Vehicle Control Skills Test................................................................................. 139

Section 13: On-Road Driving ......................................................................................................... 141

APPENDICES

Appendix A: Applying for a Commercial Driver License ................................................................. 145

Appendix B: Sample Test Questions ............................................................................................. 148

Appendix C: Vehicle Inspection Memory Aid ................................................................................. 149

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2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 1 – Introduction 1

Is the GCWR 26,001

or more pounds?

Is the GVWR of

the trailer/tow

unit 10,001 or

more pounds?

Is the GVWR of

the power unit

26,001 or more

pounds?

Is the vehicle

transporting

hazardous

materials in a

placardable

quantity?

Is the vehicle

designed to

transport 16 or

passengers,

including the

driver?

This Section Covers:

✓

Who Needs a CDL

✓

Eligibility Requirements

✓

Medical/Physical Requirements

✓ CDL Groups/Endorsements/Exemptions

✓

Application Procedures

✓

Tests

✓

Fees

✓

Restrictions

✓

Serious Traffic and RRX Violations

✓

Drug/Alcohol-Related Violations

Please read this section very carefully to determine if you need a CDL.

This manual will help you pass the CDL knowledge and skills tests, but it is not a substitute for a truck driver training class or

program. Formal training is the most reliable way to learn the skills required to safely operate a commercial vehicle.

Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of this information, laws and procedures are subject to change. For

exact wording of a law or a specific guideline, contact the Department of State Information Center at 888-SOS-MICH (767-

6424).

Who Needs a CDL?

You do if you intend to operate:

✓

Vehicles

• Having a gross vehicle weight rating

(GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more.

✓

Combination Vehicles

• Towing a trailer or other vehicles with a

GVWR of 10,001 pounds or more with a gross

combination weight rating of 26,001 pounds

or more.

✓

Any Vehicles

• Designed to transport 16 or more people

(Including the driver).

•

Carrying hazardous materials in amounts

requiring placards.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is the

recommended maximum total weight of the vehicle

and load as designated by the vehicle manufacturer.

The GVWR label is usually found on the driver-side

door post of the power unit and on or near the front of

the trailer. The GVWR should not be confused with the

elected GVW, which is declared by the vehicle

owner

for registration purposes.

Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR)

means

the value specified by the manufacturer as the maximum loaded weight of a combination vehicle. In the absence of a label, the

GCWR will be calculated by adding the GVWR of the power unit to the GVWR of all vehicles or trailers being towed.

Introduction: Michigan’s Commercial

Driver License Program

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

2 Section 1 – Introduction

What are the Driving Record Eligibility Requirements?

Do you, or will you, use a CDL to operate a CMV in interstate or intrastate commerce?

Interstate commerce is when you drive a CMV:

✓

From one state to another state or a foreign country.

✓ Between two places within a state, but during part of the trip, the CMV crosses into another state or foreign

country; or

✓ Between two places within a state, but the cargo or passengers are part of a trip that began or will end in another

state or foreign country.

Intrastate commerce is when you drive a CMV within a state and you do not meet any of the descriptions above for

interstate commerce.

If you operate in both intrastate commerce and interstate commerce, you must choose interstate commerce.

Before you may apply for an original CDL, you must qualify for the CDL based on your driving record. Any of the following

will disqualify you from applying for a CDL:

✓ The inability to make required certifications on the CDL Certification Form (BFS-103). See Appendix A.

• Effective Jan. 30, 2012, in accordance with state law and federal regulations, a driver applying for an original or

renewal of a CDL must certify to one of four federally defined types of CMV operation. They are:

1. Non-excepted interstate. Operates a CMV outside of Michigan and must provide a legible copy of one of the

following medical certification documents to the Secretary of State:

• A completed Medical Examiner’s Certificate signed by a federally approved medical professional. The Medical

Examiner’s Certificate must be carried with you when operating a CMV for up to 14 days after its issuance to

allow for processing by the Secretary of State.

• A Medical Examiner’s Certificate and a FMCSA Skills Performance Evaluation Certificate, 49 CFR 391, or,

• An FMCSA waiver or FMSCA exemption, 49 CFR 381, Subpart C, authorizing the operation of a CMV.

The FMCSA Skills Performance Evaluation certificate, FMCSA waiver or FMCSA exemption must always be in your

possession when operating a CMV.

2. Excepted interstate. Operates a CMV outside of Michigan, only for “excepted” purposes listed below.

• 49 CFR §390.3(f): State and federal transportation, occasional transportation of personal property not for

compensation, transportation of human corpses or sick/injured persons, fire trucks and rescue vehicles,

commercial vehicles designed or used to transport between 9 and 15 passengers (including the driver),

transportation of propane winter heating fuel.

• 49 CFR §391.2: Farm custom operations, apiary industries (beekeepers seasonally transporting bees), certain

farm vehicle drivers.

• 49 CFR §391.68: Private motor carrier of passengers (nonbusiness).

• 49 CFT §398.3: Driver of migrant workers.

3. Non-excepted intrastate. Operates a CMV only within Michigan (intrastate commerce). Your medical

certification or a Motor Carrier Division Medical Waiver does not need to be provided to the Department of State

However, the medical certification or a Motor Carrier Division Medical Waiver must be in your possession when

operating a commercial vehicle.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 1 – Introduction 3

4. Excepted intrastate. Operates a CMV only within Michigan (intrastate commerce) for an excepted purpose listed.

Excepted Intrastate Purpose [MCL 480.15(2)-(4)]: A self-propelled implement of husbandry or an implement of

husbandry being drawn by a farm tractor, or another implement of husbandry, public utility, telephone and cable

television company service vehicles that do not meet the definition of a CMV in 49 CFR §383, or a public utility service

vehicle used in cases of emergency.

• The CDL portion of a driver’s operator or chauffeur’s license is valid for the same amount of time as the

medical certificate or SPE; however, the time can vary, up to a maximum of 2 years.

• If a driver fails to certify to a type of CMV operation, and if required by driving type certification, fails to submit a

medical examiner’s certificate or SPE, the driver may only apply for a noncommercial motor vehicle driver’s

license.

• You can find additional information regarding certification to driving type and medical certifications at the

Secretary of State website at www.michigan.gov/sos.

✓

Having a license from more than one state.

✓ An active Michigan or out-state suspension, revocation, denial or cancellation of your driving privilege. The license

action must be resolved before you can apply for an original CDL.

✓ A suspension or revocation in the 36 months immediately preceding application.

Note: Suspensions for Failure to Appear in Court (FAC), Failure to Comply with a Court Judgment (FCJ), failure to

appear for a Driver Assessment re-examination, financial responsibility, nonsufficient funds and a suspension or

revocation for a temporary medical condition will not disqualify you for a CDL.

✓ Conviction of any six-point violation in the 24 months immediately preceding application. Conviction for operating a

CMV while impaired in the 24 months immediately preceding application.

How Old Must I Be to Obtain a CDL?

You must be age 21 to drive a CMV across state lines (interstate). You may drive a CMV in Michigan (intrastate) at age

18, except when transporting hazardous materials in a quantity that requires the vehicle be marked or placarded. To

transport hazardous materials, you must be 21 or older.

What are the Driver Qualification Requirements for the CDL?

Unless exempt, you must comply with the federal commercial driver qualification requirements, including the medical and

physical qualifications found in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations, 49 CFR §383 – CDL Standards,

Requirements and Penalties and §391 – Qualifications of Drivers. This includes drivers who operate commercial vehicles

only in Michigan. When applying for your CDL, you will certify by signing a CDL Certification Form (BFS-103 – See

Appendix A) stating that you meet these requirements before receiving your CDL.

Beginning February 7, 2022, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety (FMCSA) requires customers applying for a first-time CDL

or upgrading a CDL to complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) through an approved driver education provider.

Information about finding a provider can be found on FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry. ELDT must be completed

before you can take a hazardous materials endorsement knowledge test. For other CDL classes and endorsements, you

may take knowledge tests and obtain a commercial learner’s permit (CLP), but you must complete ELDT before

scheduling a CDL skills test through a driver testing business. Proof of completion of ELDT will show up in our system

automatically through the federal government’s Commercial Skills Test Information Management System. Entry Level

Driving Training providers may be found at the following website: fmcsa.dot.gov

Before taking any CDL skills tests, you must provide one of the following four items to the third-party examiner, allowing

you to operate your truck or bus. Ask your employer about the medical, physical, and other driver qualification

requirements.

• A valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (commonly known as a DOT card)

• FMCSA waiver

• FMCSA exemption

• Valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (DOT card) and a FMCSA Skills Performance Evaluation certificate

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

4 Section 1 – Introduction

How Can I Get Additional Information on Medical and Physical Requirements?

Intrastate (in Michigan) medical and physical requirements, state commercial truck and bus rules and regulations,

contact: Michigan Center for Truck Safety at www.trucksafety.org.

✓ Interstate (across state lines) medical and physical requirements and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations

for trucks and buses, contact: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, 315 W. Allegan St. Room 205, Lansing,

Michigan 48933; 517-853-5990 or at www.fmcsa.dot.gov. Note: The Lansing FMCSA office does not distribute any

forms or sell the FMCSR rule books.

✓ School bus medical and physical requirements and other school bus regulations, contact: Michigan Department of

Education, Pupil Transportation Program, P.O. Box 30008, Lansing, Michigan 48909; 517-373-6388 or at

Michigan.gov/MDE.

What Type of CDL do I Need?

You will need the appropriate group designation on your CDL to operate the following vehicles:

✓ Group A

• Any combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more,

provided the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of any towed vehicles is 10,001 pounds or more.

Group A designation will allow you to operate a Group B or Group C vehicle provided you have the required endorsement.

✓ Group B

• Any single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, or any such vehicle

towing a vehicle with a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less.

Group B designation will allow you to operate a Group C vehicle provided you have the required endorsement.

✓ Group C

• Any single vehicle, or combination of vehicles, that meets neither the definition of Group A nor that of Group B,

but is either designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, or is used in the transportation of

materials found to be hazardous and require the motor vehicle to be placarded under the Hazardous Materials

Regulations (49 CFR, part 172, subpart F).

What Endorsements do I Need?

In addition to the appropriate CDL vehicle group designation, endorsements are required to operate the following:

✓ T - Double or Triple Trailers: (Triple trailer combinations are not permitted in Michigan).

✓ P - Passenger: For vehicles which are designed to carry 16 or more people (including the driver).

✓ N - Tank: For commercial vehicles designed to transport any liquid or gaseous material within a tank or tanks having

an individual rated capacity of more than 119 gallons and an aggregate rated capacity of 1,000 gallons or more that

are either permanently or temporarily attached to the vehicle or the chassis. If a commercial motor

vehicle transports 1 or more tanks manifested either as being empty or containing only residue, those tanks shall

not be considered in determining whether the vehicle is a tank vehicle.

✓ H - Hazardous Materials: To carry hazardous materials in amounts requiring placards.

✓ X - Combined Tank and Hazardous Materials: For hauling liquids, liquefied gases and hazardous materials.

✓ S - School Bus: For CMVs used to transport pre-primary, primary or secondary school students from home to

school, school to home or to-and-from school-sponsored events.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 1 – Introduction 5

Are There CDL Exemptions?

You do not need a CDL for the following:

✓ Individuals: Operating motor homes or other vehicles used exclusively to transport personal possessions or

family members for nonbusiness purposes.

✓ Active-Duty Military: Operating military vehicles with military licenses (includes the National Guard).

✓ Police and Firefighters: Operating authorized emergency vehicles.

✓

Farmers

: Operating vehicles within a 150-mile radius of their farm.

Farmers will need either an F-endorsement or a CDL under the following conditions:

• An F-endorsement is needed when operating combination vehicles whose towing vehicle has a GVWR of

26,001 pounds or more. A knowledge test, but no skills test, is required to obtain the F-endorsement. The

F-endorsement is not a CDL.

• A CDL with a hazardous materials endorsement is required when carrying hazardous materials in amounts

requiring placards while operating combination vehicles whose towing vehicles has a GVWR of 26,001 pounds

or more, or a single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more.

How do I Obtain a CDL?

When ready to apply for your first CDL, come to a local Secretary of State office and present:

✓ Your driver’s license.

✓ Proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, payroll check stub, W-2 Form).

✓ Proof of Legal Presence in the United States. Acceptable proof for Legal Presence is:

Acceptable Proof of Legal Presence

for U.S. Citizenship

Acceptable Proof of Legal Presence

for Non-U.S. Citizenship

Valid, unexpired U.S. passport or passport card

**Valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card issued by

USCIS or INS (I-551)

**Foreign unexpired passport with Machine Readable

Immigrant Visa with Temporary I-551 Language

Original or certified copy of birth certificate issued

by a state, county, municipal authority, or an outlying

possession of the U.S., bearing an official seal

**Temporary I-551 stamp in valid, unexpired foreign

passport or passport card

**Employment Authorization Card (I-766) (unexpired)

Consular Report of Birth Abroad issued by the U.S.

Department of State (FS-240, DS-1350, or FS-545)

**Refugee Travel Document (I-571) (valid, unexpired)

with stamped I-94

**Foreign passport (unexpired) with an I-94 Arrival/

Departure form

**Certificate of Naturalization (N-550, N-570 or N-578)

**Foreign passport (unexpired) with an admission stamp

and/or U.S. visa

**Approved U.S. Department of Labor Certification with

Foreign Passport (unexpired) with a port-of-entry stamp

or U.S. visa (unexpired)

**Certificate of U.S. Citizenship (N-560 or N-561)

**Currently expired USCIS documents accompanied by

an I-797 receipt showing a request-in-process to extend

or adjust status may be accepted if the adjustment or

change in status can be verified in SAVE.

Documents annotated with an (**) must be verified in SAVE

✓ Fill out the CDL Certification Form (BFS-103, see Appendix A), which includes a statement certifying that you

meet the commercial driver medical qualifications. If you have had any change in your physical condition that

could affect your ability to drive since your last driver’s license renewal, the service agent may give you a

physician’s statement to be completed by your physician before you can apply for a driver’s license renewal.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

6 Section 1 – Introduction

✓

Meet the driver eligibility requirements. (See pages 2 and 3)

✓ Pass the required knowledge and vision tests. You must pass all required knowledge tests to obtain a Commercial

Learner’s Permit (CLP). This allows you to practice driving under the supervision of a driver who has a CDL for the

type of vehicle you are operating. A CLP is also required for taking the CDL skills tests.

✓ Prior to scheduling your skills test, you must pass all applicable Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements

✓ Schedule your skills test (must be 14 days after issuance of your CLP).

✓ Pay your CDL Group Designation and Endorsement fees.

CDL Group Designations and Endorsement Fees

Operator License

$25 – Standard

$45 – Enhanced

Chauffeur License

$35 – Standard

$50 – Enhanced

Fees for Group Designation or Endorsement

CDL Vehicle Group Designation

$25

CDL Endorsements (if any)

$5 ($10 for an “X” endorsement)

Correction Fees

Operator License

$18 – Standard

$24 – Enhanced

Chauffeur License

$18 – Standard

$33 – Enhanced

✓ Contact an approved third-party testing organization to schedule and take your CDL skills test. These public and

private organizations are certified by the state to administer the CDL skills tests.

Call the Department of State Information Center at 888-SOS-MICH (767-6424) or visit the department website at

www.michigan.gov/sos for information about approved third-party testing organizations in your area.

✓

After passing your CDL skills test, you will:

• Need to visit a Secretary of State office. Please note: Results from road skills tests are valid for one year from the

date the test was taken. If you have not applied for your CDL within one year of passing your road skills tests, you

will have to re-take and pass all required tests before your CDL can be issued.

• Pay a correction fee to receive a temporary CDL permit allowing you to operate a CMV for the CDL tests

passed.

• Receive the photo CDL in the mail in approximately 10-14 business days from the time the CDL permit was

issued.

What Tests do I Need to Take?

State and federal regulations require that any new CDL applicant caught cheating or making fraudulent statements on

their application will be denied a new application for 60 days. Any current CDL applicant applying to upgrade their license

caught cheating or making fraudulent statements on their application will have their CDL privileges suspended for 60 days

from the date of the incident.

All drivers applying for their original (first) CDL must take and pass the appropriate CDL written knowledge tests

and a skills test.

Drivers with a CDL from another state must always take the H-Hazardous Materials endorsement written test to keep the

H-endorsement. Transferring drivers must also pass the appropriate knowledge tests when changing their vehicle group,

removing vehicle group restrictions, or adding vehicle endorsements. They may also need to take the CDL skills tests if

upgrading their vehicle group, removing vehicle group restrictions, or adding a vehicle endorsement of either

P-Passenger or S-School Bus to their CDL.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 1 – Introduction 7

CDL Tests

CDL Group

Knowledge Tests

Skills Test

Group A

Group B

Group C

70 Questions*

50 Questions

*The Group A knowledge test

includes a 20-question

combination vehicle test.

Yes

Endorsements

Knowledge Tests

Skills Tests

T – Double Trailer

P – Passenger

S – School Bus

N – Tank

H – Hazardous

20 Questions

30 Questions

Yes

Air Brakes Test

If you want to be licensed to drive vehicles with air brakes, you must pass a

25-question air brake knowledge test. The vehicle you use for the skills test

must equipped with air brakes. If either of these conditions has not been

met, you will be restricted from operating vehicles with air brakes.

Knowledge Tests

You will take one or more knowledge tests. The following chart summarizes the type of tests and number of

questions you are required to pass depending on the type of vehicle you drive and the type of cargo you haul. It is

recommended that you study this manual very carefully as it contains the information you need to pass the CDL tests.

See Appendix B for sample test questions.

All CDL knowledge tests are administered in written form. A minimum passing score of 80 percent is required to pass each

test. Anyone applying for the H-Hazardous Materials or S-School Bus endorsement must pass a written knowledge test.

Applicants are only allowed to take one test per day from each testing category.

CDL Skills Test

If a CDL skills test is required, you must obtain a CLP and wait 14 days to take the test. The CDL skills test will consist

of three parts:

1. A vehicle inspection test to measure your ability to perform a vehicle safety check. A Vehicle Inspection Memory

Aid is available in Appendix C in the back of this book and may be used during the test.

2. A basic control skills test performed off the road.

3. An on-road driving test.

All three test segments must be passed, in the order listed above. The test is terminated after failure of any test

segment, and you will need to schedule a retest attempt. You are not required to retest with the same tester. You will

receive credit for any segment you passed, but the credit expires on the date your CLP expires. For example, if you fail

the on-road segment after passing the vehicle inspection and the basic control, your retest will include only the on-road

segment, as long as you retest on the same CLP. When you schedule a retest after you passed one or two test

segments, tell the tester about the segments you passed so they can confirm that they are on your record. Call the

Department of State Information Center at 888-SOS-MICH (767-6424) or visit the department website at

www.michigan.gov/sos for information about approved third-party testing organizations in your area.

Skills Test Fees and Refund Policies

Skills test fees and refund policies vary. Be sure to discuss and understand your test fees and scheduling

requirements with the third-party testing organization before taking your test.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

8 Section 1 – Introduction

When Taking Your CDL Skills Test

✓ You must supply an empty vehicle with a GVWR representative of the type you plan to drive (including a trailer if

required). Any vehicle or trailer used for a skills test must have a manufacturer’s data plate showing the GVWR. You

must have a valid CLP to operate the vehicle.

✓ The vehicle must be equipped with at least two permanently mounted seats for yourself and the examiner. Safety belts

are also required for both the driver and examiner (except for the examiner on buses).

✓ Applicants applying for the P-Passenger endorsement must pass the skills test in a vehicle with a seating capacity of

16 or more passengers, including the driver. Drivers who are training to become school bus drivers cannot operate a

school bus with students on board if they only hold a commercial learner’s permit.

✓ You must show valid registration and proof of insurance for your test vehicle.

✓ You must also be able to furnish the third-party testing organization with your Michigan photo driver’s license, CLP and

Medical Examiner’s Certificate (DOT card, School Bus card) or medical waiver.

See Sections 11, 12 and 13 at the end of this manual for more information about CDL skills tests and the

third-party skills testing program.

Adding CDL Privileges – Removing a CDL Restriction – Upgrading a CDL Group

Adding CDL privileges, including adding a passenger endorsement, removing a restriction and changing a lower group

designation to a higher group designation requires new skills tests in the appropriate vehicle. These are considered new

CDLs and are charged accordingly, along with a correction fee.

What CDL Restrictions Could I Receive?

✓

Restriction Code L

: “No Air brake equipped CMV”

• If you do not pass the air brake knowledge test, do not correctly identify the air brake system components, do

not properly conduct an air brake system check, or if the vehicle you use for the CDL skills tests is not equipped

with air brakes, you will be restricted from operating vehicles with air brakes.

✓

Restriction Code M

: “No Class A Passenger vehicle”

• Adding a P-Passenger endorsement to your current Group A vehicle group designation and completing the CDL

skills test in a Group B bus will limit the operation of buses to Groups B and C buses.

• Adding the P-Passenger and S-School Bus endorsement to your current Group A designation and completing the

CDL skills test in a Group B school bus will limit the operation of buses to Group B or C school buses.

✓

Restriction Code N

: “No Class A and B Passenger vehicle”

• Adding a P-Passenger endorsement to your current Group A or B designation and completing your CDL skills test

in a Group C bus will limit the P-Passenger endorsement to operation of a Group C bus.

• Adding a P-Passenger and S-School Bus endorsement to your current Group A or B designation and

completing your CDL skills test in a Group C school bus will limit the P-Passenger and S-School Bus

endorsement to operation of Group C school buses.

✓

Restriction Code V

: “CDL Medical Variance”

• If the State is notified by the FMCSA that a medical variance has been issued to the driver, the State must

indicate the existence of such a medical variance on the CDLIS driving record and the CDL document using a

restriction code “V” to indicate that there is information about the medical variance on the CDLIS record.

✓

Restriction Code K

: “CDL Intrastate Only”

• This restriction is displayed if you are under 21 or if you self-certify to either “excepted intrastate” or

“non-excepted intrastate” as your commercial driving type.

✓

Restriction Code E

: “No Manual transmission equipped CMV”

• If the driver takes the Skills Test in a vehicle that has an automatic transmission, then an “E” no manual

transmission restriction is placed on their license.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 1 – Introduction 9

✓ Restriction Code O: “No Tractor-trailer CMV”

• If the driver takes the Skills Test in a Class A vehicle that is not a tractor-type, or that has a pintle hook or other

non-fifth wheel connection, they will have an “O” restriction placed on their license restricting them from driving

any Class A tractor-type vehicle with a fifth wheel connection.

✓

Restriction Code Z

: “No full air brake equipped CMV”

• If the driver takes the CDL skills test in a vehicle with an air over hydraulic brake system, then they will have a

“Z” no full air brake restriction placed on their license.

The following restrictions are valid only for a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP):

✓

Restriction Code X

: “No Cargo in CMV tank vehicle CMV”

• If you have a tank vehicle endorsement on your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) you will be restricted from

hauling any cargo in the CMV tank vehicle.

✓

Restriction Code P

: “No Passengers in CMV bus”

• If you have a passenger/school bus vehicle endorsement on your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) you will

be restricted from transporting passengers in the CMV bus.

Seasonal Restricted CDL

A special seasonal restricted CDL is available for agri-business employees operating Group B and C vehicles on

routes within 150 miles from the place of business. Buses and school buses cannot be operated with this restricted

license.

Although CDL knowledge and skills tests are not required, applicants must have held a valid driver’s license for at

least one year and possess a clean driving record for the three-year period preceding application for the seasonal

CDL.

This limited CDL must be applied for each calendar year. Within a one-year period, applicants can choose to have the

CDL valid for 180 days from date of issue or valid for the seasonal periods from April 2 through June 20 and

September 2 through November 20.

The restricted CDL permits the driver to transport the following limited amounts of hazardous materials without the H-

or X-endorsements.

✓

Diesel motor fuel in quantities of 1,000 gallons or less.

✓

Liquid fertilizers in quantities of 3,000 gallons or less.

✓

Solid fertilizers that are not transported with any organic substance.

What About Major and Serious Traffic Violation Convictions While Driving a CMV?

If you have a CDL and are convicted of certain major or serious traffic offenses (as defined by federal regulations, 49

CFR §383.51) while operating either a CMV or noncommercial vehicle, your CDL will be subject to suspension or

revocation.

Your operator or chauffeur license may also be affected, depending on the traffic offense, and your privilege to operate

a noncommercial vehicle may be restricted, suspended, or revoked.

Other traffic convictions that result in the suspension or revocation of your operator or chauffeur license when you

were driving a noncommercial vehicle will also suspend or revoke your license to operate a CMV.

The following information explains the various traffic offenses, convictions for major and serious offenses, drug or

alcohol-related offenses and railroad crossing offenses if those offenses were committed while operating a CMV.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

10 Section 1 – Introduction

Major Traffic Violations

Under the influence of alcohol.

Having an alcohol concentration of 0.04 or greater while

operating a CMV.

Operating under the influence of a controlled substance.

Refusing to take an alcohol test.

Leaving the scene of an accident.

Using the vehicle to commit a felony.

Causing a fatality through the negligent operation of a CMV.

Using the vehicle in the commission of a felony involving

the manufacturing, distributing, or dispensing a controlled

substance.

Operating a CMV only while CMV privileges are suspended, revoked, cancelled or disqualified.

If charged and convicted for any of the major traffic offenses listed above while driving *any type of motor vehicle,

your privileges to operate a CMV for a:

• First conviction: 1-year suspension; 3-year suspension if transporting hazardous materials when stopped.

• Two convictions, separate incidents, 10-year revocation minimum.

Conviction for:

• Negligent Homicide, Fleeing/Eluding Law Enforcement: 1-year suspension of CMV privileges.

• Committing a felony involving the manufacture, distribution or dispensing of a controlled substance: CMV

privileges revoked for life.

Serious Traffic Violations

Speeding 15 mph or more over the posted limit.

A traffic violation connected with a fatal accident.

Following too closely.

Reckless driving.

Improper or erratic lane changes.

Operating a CMV without a CDL.

Operating a CMV without a CDL in the driver’s possession.

Driving a CMV without proper class of CDL and/or

endorsements.

Drove a CMV with no license in possession.

Moving violation causing death.

Texting while driving a CMV.

Using hand-held mobile telephone while operating a CMV.

If charged and convicted for any of the serious traffic violations while operating a CMV, your privilege to operate a

CMV will be suspended for the following.

• Two convictions, separate incidents within 3 years: 60 days.

• Three or more convictions, separate incidents within 3 years: 120 days suspension of your CMV privileges.

Also, depending on the severity of the traffic conviction, your noncommercial vehicle privileges may also be

suspended, which will include your privilege to operate a CMV.

Railroad Crossing Violations

For Drivers Who are Not Required to Always Stop

Failing to slow down and check that the tracks are

clear of an approaching train.

Failing to stop before reaching the crossing when

the tracks are not clear.

For Drivers Who are Always Required to Stop

Failing to stop before driving onto the crossing.

For All Drivers

Failing to have sufficient space to drive completely

through the crossing without stopping.

Failing to obey a traffic control device or the directions of an

enforcement official at the crossing.

Failing to negotiate a crossing because of insufficient undercarriage clearance.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 1 – Introduction 11

If charged and convicted for a railroad crossing violation, your CDL will be suspended for:

• First conviction: 60 days.

• Second conviction within three years: 120 days.

• Three or more convictions within three years, separate incidents: 1 year.

Points Assessed for Convictions

A major, serious or railroad crossing conviction will also be assessed for points and posted to your driving record. If you

accumulate a total of 12 or more points within a two-year period, Driver Assessment, by law, may require your

appearance at a re-examination to assess your driving activities and to determine if a suspension or revocation of your

driving privilege is required.

What About Serious Alcohol Violations While Operating a CMV?

You will be ordered out-of-service for 24 hours if you:

✓

Refuse to take a preliminary breath test (PBT).

✓

Consume alcohol within four hours prior to operating a CMV.

✓

Consume alcohol while operating a CMV; or

✓ Have a bodily alcohol content (BAC) of 0.015 grams or more per 100 milliliters of blood, per 210 liters of breath or

per 67 milliliters of urine.

Other alcohol violations: If you have consumed too much alcohol, you may be charged with:

✓ Operating while intoxicated.

✓ Operating with a BAC of 0.04 < 0.08 grams per 100 milliliters of blood, per 210 liters of breath or per 67 milliliters

of urine.

✓

Operating with a high bodily alcohol content of 0.017.

✓ Operating while impaired by liquor.

✓ Operating while under the influence, while intoxicated or with a high bodily alcohol content causing serious injury

or death.

✓ Operating under the influence or while impaired by controlled substances.

Refusal to submit to a chemical test (Implied Consent): Implied consent means that any person who holds a CDL is

considered to have agreed to such testing; consent is implied by operating a motor vehicle. If you refuse to submit to a

chemical test (Implied Consent), or if you are convicted of any of the alcohol offenses listed above, your CDL will be:

✓ Suspended for one year for a first offense, or three years if transporting hazardous materials; and

✓ Revoked for a minimum of 10 years for a second or third offense.

What are the CDL Consequences for Violations Committed While Operating Noncommercial

Vehicles?

Your CDL is a special privilege attached to your operator or chauffeur license. Therefore, if while operating a non-

commercial motor vehicle (including your personal vehicle), you are convicted of a traffic violation that suspends or

revokes your operator or chauffeur license, it will also suspend or revoke your privilege to operate a CMV.

The length of the suspension or revocation of driving privileges will vary from 90 days to five years, depending on the

current conviction posted to your driving record and how many and the type of convictions already on your driving

record. Complete conviction information is in the Michigan Vehicle Code or on the Secretary of State website at

www.michigan.gov/sos. Following is a partial list of convictions.

✓

Refusal to submit to a chemical test (Michigan’s Implied Consent law).

✓

Operating under the influence of liquor or controlled substance.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

12 Section 1 – Introduction

✓ Operating while impaired by liquor or controlled substance.

✓

Under 21 with a bodily alcohol content of 0.02 < 0.08.

What are the CMV Operator’s Responsibilities Regarding Notification of Convictions and

Suspensions?

You must notify your employer in writing of:

✓ Traffic violations (other than a parking ticket) committed in any motor vehicle within 30 days of conviction. The

notification must include:

• Your full name and signature.

• Your driver’s license number.

• Date of conviction.

• Specific violations committed.

• Whether the violation was in a CMV.

• The location of the violation.

You should also notify your employer in writing of:

✓ Any driver’s license action, such as a suspension, revocation, cancellation, other loss of driving privileges or a driving

privilege disqualification by the end of the first business day that follows the day you received notice of the license

action.

✓ Any out-of-service order within 24 hours.

How do I Renew My CDL? Can I Renew My CDL by Mail?

CDLs cannot be renewed by mail. An operator or chauffeur CDL must be renewed every 4 years. To renew (or request a

duplicate) CDL online, you will need your driver’s license or renewal notice, your updated DOT medical card (if applicable)

and a credit or debit card or e-check/bank account number for payment. Hazardous materials endorsements cannot be

renewed online. CDLs may also be renewed at a Secretary of State office.

At the Secretary of State’s office, you will do the following:

✓ Complete a BFS-103 CDL Certification Form (BFS-103, Appendix A) at every CDL application.

✓ If required, present proof of Legal Presence in the United States. Acceptable proof is listed on page 13 of this manual.

✓ Take a vision test after the branch receives clearance from both a state and national check:

• If the commercial driver portion of your driver’s license has expired for two or more years, you will be required to

retake all applicable vision, knowledge, and road skills tests.

• If the state or national checks reflect that your driving privilege is suspended, revoked, canceled or denied, you

cannot apply for an original or a renewal of a CDL until the state and national checks reflect clear.

What Tests do I Need to Take to Renew My CDL?

Unless your CDL has been expired over two years, or you have a Hazmat Endorsement, no other tests are required.

If you currently have a hazardous materials endorsement on your CDL (H or X), you will be required to take the

hazardous materials endorsement test again, and pass it with a score of 80 percent or higher, to renew the

endorsement. The hazardous materials endorsement test is a written knowledge test consisting of 30 multiple choice

questions. An oral test for this endorsement is not permitted.

All information needed to pass this test is in this manual. You must present a Federal Security Threat Assessment letter

from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and proof of U.S. Citizenship or Lawful Permanent Residence to

apply for or renew a CDL with a hazardous materials endorsement. Acceptable proof for U.S. Citizenship or Lawful

Permanent Residence is outlined in the following chart.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 1 – Introduction 13

Acceptable Proof of U.S. Citizenship

Acceptable Proof of Lawful Permanent Residency

Unexpired U.S. passport or passport card.

Valid Permanent Resident Card issued by USCIS or INS.*

Original or certified copy of birth certificate issued by

a state, county, municipal authority, or an outlying

possession of the U.S., bearing an official seal.

*Documents marked with an asterisk are subject to

verification using the Systematic Alien Verification for

Entitlements System (SAVE).

Consular Report of Birth Abroad issued by the U.S.

Department of State (FS-240, DS-1350 or FS-545).

Certificate of Naturalization (N-550, N-570 or N-578).*

Certificate of U.S. Citizenship (N-560 or N-561).*

Hazardous materials endorsement (H) – additional requirements: When applying for or renewing a CDL that will include a

hazardous material endorsement (H), you must apply for a background record check with the Transportation Security

Administration (TSA) and receive TSA approval to include a H-endorsement on your four-year CDL. Enrollment information

is available on the Secretary of State website at Michigan.gov/SOS or on the TSA website at:

UniversalEnroll.dhs.gov/Programs/hme. You may also contact TSA at 855-347-8371.

What Happens if I Fail the Hazardous Materials Endorsement Test?

You may continue using your CDL and hazardous materials endorsement until your driver’s license expires (on your

birthday). If you fail to pass the hazardous materials endorsement test, you may take it again on the same day only

with approval by the Secretary of State branch manager. If your driver’s license has not expired, you will be

encouraged to delay its renewal for as long as possible while trying to pass the hazardous materials endorsement

exam.

However, if your CDL is about to expire, you may want to renew it without the hazardous materials endorsement. This will

allow you to continue to operate private and commercial motor vehicles but not transport hazardous materials that require

placards. If you pass the hazardous materials endorsement test after you renewed your driver’s license, you may add the

H-endorsement to your CDL by paying an $18 correction fee and a $5 endorsement fee.

What Else do I Need to Know?

State of Domicile Requirement

To qualify for a Michigan CDL, Michigan must be your state of domicile. The state of domicile is defined as the State

where a person has his/her true, fixed, and permanent home and principal residence and to which he/she intends to

return whenever he/she is absent.

Do I Need a Chauffeur License?

A chauffeur license is required when a person is:

✓ Employed for the principal purpose of operating a motor vehicle or combination of vehicles with a GVWR, GCWR,

GCW or GVW of 10,000 pounds or more.

✓ Operating a motor vehicle as a carrier of passengers or as a common or contract carrier of property.

✓

Operating a bus or school bus.

✓ Drivers operating a single vehicle or a combination of vehicles with a GVW, GVWR, GCW or GCWR of 10,000

pounds or more must meet the commercial driver medical requirements (including possession of the appropriate

medical card or medical waiver).

✓

Operating a commercial vehicle that requires a CDL with a

Hazardous materials endorsement (H).

If required, the CDL group designations and CDL endorsements are added to the chauffeur license.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

14 Section 1 – Introduction

What is Required to Convert My Out-of-State CDL to a Michigan CDL?

When moving to Michigan from another state, you must apply for a Michigan CDL to operate a CMV. To obtain a

Michigan CDL, you must visit a Secretary of State office and complete the following requirements.

✓

Surrender your out-of-state CDL.

✓ Complete a computer check of your driving eligibility status through national and state records. If your driving privilege

is suspended, revoked, denied, or canceled for any reason in any other state, you cannot receive your Michigan CDL

until the out-of-state licensing issues are resolved. The driving record check must be completed by the branch office

before your CDL can be issued.

✓

Pass the vision test.

✓ If your unexpired out-of-state license includes a hazardous materials endorsement, you will be required to show

proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency (see the CDL Certificate Form and the BFS-103 in Appendix A

for acceptable proof).

✓ Take and pass the appropriate Michigan CDL written test if you are upgrading your group designation, adding

endorsements, or removing the air brake restriction. To keep your H-endorsement, you must always take and pass

the hazmat written test. Otherwise, written tests are not required if you are not upgrading your CDL.

✓ Take and pass the Michigan CDL skills test if you are upgrading your group designation, adding the

P-endorsement or removing a CDL limitation, such as the air brake restriction. If a CDL skills test is required, you

must obtain a CLP and wait 14 days to take the test. Your Michigan photo driver’s license must be presented to the

third-party testing organization before your CDL skills test can be administered. Generally, your regular driver’s

license (operator or chauffeur) will be mailed to you within 10 days.

✓ Receive your Michigan CDL upon proper and successful completion of any necessary CDL tests and payment of fees.

Do “Incidental” Drivers Need a CDL?

Unless exempt, any driver who operates a CMV on roads or highways that are accessible to the public must have a

CDL regardless of the distance driven or the amount of driving time.

Where Can I Get Additional Information?

The following organizations can provide information regarding CDLs, commercial driver qualification requirements and

the operation of CMVs in Michigan:

Michigan Trucking Association

1131 Centennial Way

Lansing, MI 48917

517-321-1951

www.mitrucking.org

Michigan Center for Truck Safety

1131 Centennial Way, Suite 2

Lansing MI 48917

Lansing office – 800-682-4682

Upper Peninsula office – 800-469-7364

www.truckingsafety.org

Michigan Department of State

Department of State Information Center

Lansing, MI 48918

888-SOS-MICH (767-6424)

Michigan.gov/SOS

Michigan CDL Guide: The following chart is designed to help you determine the type of CDL you need.

GROUP

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION

TYPICAL VEHICLES IN GROUP

KNOWLEDGE TESTS

REQUIRED

SECTIONS OF CDL

MANUAL TO STUDY

SKILLS TESTS

REQUIRED

POSSIBLE RESTRICTIONS

Combination vehicles

Any vehicle towing a vehicle or trailer

when the towed vehicle’s GVWR is

over 10,001 lbs and the GCWR is

26,001 lbs or more

General Knowledge

Combination Vehicles

Air Brakes (if equipped)

1, 2, 3

11, 12, 13

Appendices

Vehicle Inspection

Basic Control Skills

Driving

CDL not valid for vehicle with air

brakes (Code 28)

CDL P or S endorsement valid in

Group B or C vehicle only (Code

29)

CDL P or S endorsement valid in

Group C vehicle only (Code 30)

Single vehicle having a GVWR of

26,001 pounds or more

Towing trailers or other vehicles with

a GVWR of 10,000 lbs or less

General Knowledge

Air Brakes (if equipped)

1, 2, 3

11, 12, 13

Appendices

Vehicle Inspection

Basic Control Skills

Driving

CDL not valid for vehicle with air

brakes (Code 28)

CDL P or S endorsement valid in

Group C vehicle only (Code 30)

Small vehicles designed to carry 16

or more people, including the driver

Small vehicles that carry hazardous

materials in amounts requiring

placarding

General Knowledge

Air Brakes (if equipped)

1, 2, 3, 4

11, 12, 13

Appendices

Vehicle Inspection

Basic Control Skills

Driving

CDL not valid for vehicle with air

brakes (Code 28)

ENDORSEMENTS – VEHICLE DESCRIPTION

Double or Triple Trailer: (Triple

trailers are not permitted in Michigan)

Doubles

6, 7

Appendices

None

Passenger: For vehicles designed to

carry 16 or more people, including

the driver

Passenger Transport

11, 12, 13

Appendices

Vehicle Inspection

Basic Control Skills

Driving

CDL P or S endorsement valid in

Group B or C vehicle only (Code

29)

CDL P or S endorsement valid in

Group C vehicle only (Code 30)

School bus: Commercial motor

vehicle used to transport pre-

primary, primary, or secondary

school students from home or

school, school to home, and to or

from school sponsored events

School Bus

4, 10

11, 12, 13

Appendices

Vehicle Inspection

Basic Control Skills

Driving

CDL P or S endorsement valid in

Group B or C vehicle only (Code

29)

CDL P or S endorsement valid in

Group C vehicle only (Code 30)

Tank Vehicle: To haul liquids or

liquefied gases in bulk in

permanently mounted tanks rated at

119 gallons or portable tanks rated at

1,000 gallons or more

Tank Vehicle

Appendices

None

Hazardous Materials: To carry

hazardous materials in amounts

requiring placarding

Hazardous Materials

Appendices

None

An “X” will appear on the license when an applicant receives both the N-Tank and H-Hazardous Materials endorsements

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Section 1 – Introduction 17

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2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 2 – Driving Safely 19

Section 2

DRIVING SAFELY

This Section Covers:

✓ Vehicle Inspection

✓ Basic Control of Your Vehicle

✓ Shifting Gears

✓ Seeing

✓ Communicating

✓ Space Management

✓ Controlling Your Speed

✓ Seeing Hazards

✓ Distracted Driving

✓ Aggressive Drivers/Road Rage

✓ Night Driving & Driver Fatigue

✓ Driving in Fog

✓ Winter Driving

✓ Hot Weather Driving

✓ Railroad-highway Crossings

✓ Mountain Driving

✓ Driving Emergencies

✓ Antilock Braking Systems

✓ Skid Control and Recovery

✓ Accident Procedures

✓ Fires

✓ Alcohol, Other Drugs, and Driving

✓ Hazardous Materials Rules

This section contains knowledge and safe driving

information that all commercial drivers should know. You

must pass a test on this information to get a CDL. This

section does not have specific information on air brakes,

combination vehicles, doubles, or passenger vehicles.

When preparing for the Vehicle Inspection Test, you must

review the material in Section 11 in addition to the

information in this section. This section does have basic

information on hazardous materials (HazMat) that all

drivers should know. If you need a HazMat endorsement,

you should study Section 9.

2.1 – Vehicle Inspection

2.1.1 – Why Inspect

Safety is the most important reason you inspect your

vehicle, safety for yourself and for other road users.

A vehicle defect found during an inspection could save you

problems later. You could have a breakdown on the road

that will cost time and dollars, or even worse, a crash

caused by the defect.

Federal and state laws require that drivers inspect their

vehicles. Federal and state inspectors also may inspect

your vehicles. If they judge the vehicle to be unsafe, they

will put it "out of service" until it is fixed.

2.1.2 – Types of Vehicle Inspection

Vehicle Inspection

A Vehicle inspection will help you find problems that could

cause a crash or breakdown.

During a Trip

For safety you should:

✓ Watch gauges for signs of trouble.

✓ Use your senses to check for problems (look, listen,

smell, feel).

✓ Check critical items when you stop:

• Tires, wheels and rims.

• Brakes.

• Lights and reflectors.

• Brake and electrical connections to trailer.

• Trailer coupling devices.

• Cargo securement devices.

After-trip Inspection and Report

You should do an after-trip inspection at the end of the trip,

day, or tour of duty on each vehicle you operated. It may

include filling out a vehicle condition report listing any

problems you find. The inspection report helps a motor

carrier know when the vehicle needs repairs.

2.1.3 – What to Look For

Tire Problems

✓ Too much or too little air pressure.

✓ Bad wear. You need at least 4/32-inch tread depth in

every major groove on front tires. You need 2/32 inch

on other tires. No fabric should show through the tread

or sidewall.

✓ Cuts or other damage.

✓ Tread separation.

✓ Dual tires that come in contact with each other or parts

of the vehicle.

✓ Mismatched sizes.

✓ Radial and bias-ply tires used together.

✓ Cut or cracked valve stems.

✓ Re-grooved, recapped, or retreaded tires on the front

wheels of a bus are prohibited.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

20 Section 2 – Driving Safely

Wheel and Rim Problems

✓ Damaged rims.

✓ Rust around wheel nuts may mean the nuts are loose-

-check tightness. After a tire has been changed, stop a

short while later and re-check tightness of nuts.

✓ Missing clamps, spacers, studs, or lugs means

danger.

✓ Mismatched, bent, or cracked lock rings are

dangerous.

✓ Wheels or rims that have had welding repairs are not

safe.

Bad Brake Drums or Shoes

✓ Cracked drums.

✓ Shoes or pads with oil, grease, or brake fluid on them.

✓ Shoes worn dangerously thin, missing, or broken.

Steering System Defects

✓ Missing nuts, bolts, cotter keys, or other parts.

✓ Bent, loose, or broken parts, such as steering column,

steering gear box, or tie rods.

✓ If power steering equipped, check hoses, pumps, and

fluid level; check for leaks.

✓ Steering wheel play of more than 10 degrees

(approximately 2 inches movement at the rim of a 20-

inch steering wheel) can make it hard to steer.

Figure 2.1 illustrates a typical steering system.

Figure 2.1

Suspension System Defects

The suspension system holds up the vehicle and its load.

It keeps the axles in place. Therefore, broken suspension

parts can be extremely dangerous. Look for:

✓ Spring hangers that allow movement of axle from

proper position. See Figure 2.2.

Figure 2.2

✓ Cracked or broken spring hangers.

✓ Missing or broken leaves in any leaf spring. If one-

fourth or more are missing, it will put the vehicle "out of

service", but any defect could be dangerous. See

Figure 2.3.

Figure 2.3

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 2 – Driving Safely 21

✓ Broken leaves in a multi-leaf spring or leaves that have

shifted so they might hit a tire or other part.

✓ Leaking shock absorbers.

✓ Torque rod or arm, u-bolts, spring hangers, or other

axle positioning parts that are cracked, damaged, or

missing.

✓ Air suspension systems that are damaged and/or

leaking. See Figure 2.4.

Figure 2.4

✓ Any loose, cracked, broken, or missing frame

members.

Exhaust System Defects

A broken exhaust system can let poison fumes into the

cab or sleeper berth. Look for:

✓ Loose, broken, or missing exhaust pipes, mufflers,

tailpipes, or vertical stacks.

✓ Loose, broken, or missing mounting brackets, clamps,

bolts, or nuts.

✓ Exhaust system parts rubbing against fuel system

parts, tires, or other moving parts of vehicle.

✓ Exhaust system parts that are leaking.

Emergency Equipment

Vehicles must be equipped with emergency equipment.

Look for:

✓ Fire extinguisher(s).

✓ Spare electrical fuses (unless equipped with circuit

breakers).

✓ Warning devices for parked vehicles: three reflective

triangles or at least 6 fuses or 3 liquid burning flares).

Cargo (Trucks)

You must make sure the truck is not overloaded and the

cargo is balanced and secured before each trip. If the

cargo contains hazardous materials, you must inspect for

proper papers and placarding.

2.1.4 – CDL Vehicle Inspection Test

In order to obtain a CDL you will be required to pass a

Vehicle inspection test. You will be tested to see if you

know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be

asked to do a Vehicle inspection of your vehicle. You

must point to/touch and name the item you are inspecting

and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and

why. The following seven-step inspection method should

be useful.

2.1.5 – Seven-step Inspection Method

Method of Inspection

You should do a Vehicle inspection the same way each

time so you will learn all the steps and be less likely to

forget something.

Approaching the Vehicle

Notice general condition. Look for damage or vehicle

leaning to one side. Look under the vehicle for fresh oil,

coolant, grease, or fuel leaks. Check the area around the

vehicle for hazards to vehicle movement (people, other

vehicles, objects, low-hanging wires, limbs, etc.).

Vehicle Inspection Guide

Note: For the purposes of the CDL skills test you will be

required to begin the test in the cab of the test vehicle.

Step 1: Vehicle Overview

Review Last Vehicle Inspection Report

Drivers may have to make a vehicle inspection report in

writing each day. The motor carrier must repair any items

in the report that affect safety and certify on the report that

repairs were made or were unnecessary. You must sign

the report only if defects were noted and certified to be

repaired or not needed to be repaired.

Step 2: Check Engine Compartment

Check That the Parking Brakes are On and/or Wheels

Chocked

You may have to raise the hood, tilt the cab (secure loose

things so they don't fall and break something), or open the

engine compartment door. Check the following:

✓ Engine oil level.

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22 Section 2 – Driving Safely

✓ Coolant level in radiator; condition of hoses.

✓ Power steering fluid level; hose condition (if so

equipped).

✓ Windshield washer fluid level.

✓ Battery fluid level, connections and tie downs (battery

may be located elsewhere.

✓ Automatic transmission fluid level (may require engine

to be running).

✓ Check belts for tightness and excessive wear

(alternator, water pump, air compressor). Learn how

much "give" the belts should have when adjusted right

and check each one.

✓ Leaks in the engine compartment (fuel, coolant, oil,

power steering fluid, hydraulic fluid, battery fluid).

✓ Cracked, worn electrical wiring insulation.

✓ Lower and secure hood, cab, or engine compartment

door.

Step 3: Start Engine and Inspect Inside the

Cab

Get in and Start Engine

✓ Make sure parking brake is on.

✓ Put gearshift in neutral (or "park" if automatic).

✓ Start engine; listen for unusual noises.

If equipped, check the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

indicator lights. Light on dash should come on and then

turn off. If it stays on the ABS is not working properly. For

trailers only, if the yellow light on the left rear of the trailer

stays on, the ABS is not working properly.

Look at the Gauges

✓ Oil pressure. Should come up to normal within

seconds after engine is started. See Figure 2.5

✓ Air pressure. Pressure should build from 50 to 90 psi

within 3 minutes. Build air pressure to governor cut-

out (usually around 120 – 140 psi. Know your

vehicle’s requirements.

✓ Ammeter and/or voltmeter. Should be in normal

range(s).

✓ Coolant temperature. Should begin gradual rise to

normal operating range.

✓ Engine oil temperature. Should begin gradual rise to

normal operating range.

✓ Warning lights and buzzers. Oil, coolant, charging

circuit warning, and antilock brake system lights

should go out right away.

Check Condition of Controls

Check all of the following for looseness, sticking, damage,

or improper setting:

✓ Steering wheel.

✓ Clutch.

✓ Accelerator ("gas pedal").

✓ Brake controls:

• Foot brake.

• Trailer brake (if vehicle has one).

• Parking brake.

• Retarder controls (if vehicle has them).

✓ Transmission controls.

✓ Interaxle differential lock (if vehicle has one).

✓ Horn(s).

✓ Windshield wiper/washer.

✓ Lights:

• Headlights.

• Dimmer switch.

• Turn signal.

• Four-way flashers.

• Parking, clearance, identification, marker

switch(es).

Figure 2.5

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Section 2 – Driving Safely 23

Check Mirrors and Windshield

Inspect mirrors and windshield for cracks, dirt, illegal

stickers, or other obstructions to seeing clearly. Clean and

adjust as necessary.

Check Emergency Equipment

✓ Check for safety equipment:

• Spare electrical fuses (unless vehicle has circuit

breakers).

• Three red reflective triangles, 6 fuses or 3 liquid

burning flares.

• Properly charged and rated fire extinguisher.

✓ Check for optional items such as:

• Chains (where winter conditions require).

• Tire changing equipment.

✓ List of emergency phone numbers

✓ Accident reporting kit (packet).

✓ Check Safety Belt. Check that the safety belt is

securely mounted, adjusts; latches properly and is not

ripped or frayed.

Step 4: Turn Off Engine and Check Lights

Make sure the parking brake is set, turn off the engine,

and take the key with you. Turn on headlights (low beams)

and four-way emergency flashers and get out of the

vehicle.

Step 5: Do Walk-around Inspection

✓ Go to front of vehicle and check that low beams are

on, and both of the four-way flashers are working.

✓ Push dimmer switch and check that high beams work.

✓ Turn off headlights and four-way emergency flashers.

✓ Turn on parking, clearance, side-marker, and

identification lights.

✓ Turn on right turn signal and start walk-around

inspection.

General

✓ Walk around and inspect.

✓ Clean all lights, reflectors, and glass as you go along.

Left Front Side

✓ Driver's door glass should be clean.

✓ Door latches or locks should work properly.

✓ Left front wheel:

• Condition of wheel and rim--missing, bent, broken

studs, clamps, lugs, or any signs of misalignment.

• Condition of tires--properly inflated, valve stem

and cap OK, no serious cuts, bulges, or tread

wear.

• Use wrench to test rust-streaked lug nuts,

indicating looseness.

• Hub oil level OK, no leaks.

✓ Left front suspension:

• Condition of spring, spring hangers, shackles,

u-bolts.

• Shock absorber condition.

✓ Left front brake:

• Condition of brake drum or disc.

• Condition of hoses.

Front

✓ Condition of front axle.

✓ Condition of steering system.

• No loose, worn, bent, damaged or missing parts.

• Must grab steering mechanism to test for

looseness.

✓ Condition of windshield.

• Check for damage and clean if dirty.

• Check windshield wiper arms for proper spring

tension.

• Check wiper blades for damage, "stiff" rubber, and

securement.

✓ Lights and reflectors.

• Parking, clearance, and identification lights clean,

operating, and proper color (amber at front).

• Reflectors clean and proper color (amber at front).

• Right front turn signal light clean, operating, and

proper color (amber or white on signals facing

forward).

Right Side

✓ Right front: check all items as done on left front.

✓ Primary and secondary safety cab locks engaged (if

cab-over-engine design).

✓ Right fuel tank(s).

• Securely mounted, not damaged, or leaking.

• Fuel crossover line secure.

• Tank(s) contain enough fuel.

• Cap(s) on and secure.

✓ Condition of visible parts.

• Rear of engine--not leaking.

• Transmission--not leaking.

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24 Section 2 – Driving Safely

• Exhaust system--secure, not leaking, not touching

wires, fuel, or air-lines.

• Frame and cross members--no bends or cracks.

• Air-lines and electrical wiring--secured against

snagging, rubbing, wearing.

• Spare tire carrier or rack not damaged (if so

equipped).

• Spare tire and/or wheel securely mounted in rack.

• Spare tire and wheel adequate (proper size,

properly inflated).

✓ Cargo securement (trucks).

• Cargo properly blocked, braced, tied, chained, etc.

• Header board adequate, secure (if required).

• Side boards, stakes strong enough, free of

damage, properly set in place (if so equipped).

• Canvas or tarp (if required) properly secured to

prevent tearing, billowing, or blocking of mirrors.

• If oversize, all required signs (flags, lamps, and

reflectors) safely and properly mounted and all

required permits in driver's possession.

• Curbside cargo compartment doors in good

condition, securely closed, latched/locked and

required security seals in place.

Right Rear

✓ Condition of wheels and rims--no missing, bent, or

broken spacers, studs, clamps, or lugs.

✓ Condition of tires--properly inflated, valve stems and

caps OK, no serious cuts, bulges, tread wear, tires not

rubbing each other, and nothing stuck between them.

✓ Tires same type, e.g., not mixed radial and bias types.

✓ Tires evenly matched (same sizes).

✓ Wheel bearing/seals not leaking.

✓ Suspension.

• Condition of spring(s), spring hangers, shackles,

and u-bolts.

• Axle secure.

• Powered axle(s) not leaking lube (gear oil).

• Condition of torque rod arms, bushings.

• Condition of shock absorber(s).

• If retractable axle equipped, check condition of lift

mechanism. If air powered, check for leaks.

• Condition of air ride components.

✓ Brakes.

• Brake adjustment.

• Condition of brake drum(s) or discs.

• Condition of hoses--look for any wear due to

rubbing.

✓ Lights and reflectors.

• Side-marker lights clean, operating, and proper

color (red at rear, others amber).

• Side-marker reflectors clean and proper color (red

at rear, others amber).

Rear

✓ Lights and reflectors.

• Rear clearance and identification lights clean,

operating, and proper color (red at rear).

• Reflectors clean and proper color (red at rear).

• Taillights clean, operating, and proper color (red at

rear).

• Right rear turn signal operating, and proper color

(red, yellow, or amber at rear).

✓ License plate(s) present, clean, and secured.

✓ Splash guards present, not damaged, properly

fastened, not dragging on ground, or rubbing tires.

✓ Cargo secure (trucks).

✓ Cargo properly blocked, braced, tied, chained, etc.

✓ Tailboards up and properly secured.

✓ End gates free of damage, properly secured in stake

sockets.

✓ Canvas or tarp (if required) properly secured to

prevent tearing, billowing, or blocking of either the

rearview mirrors or rear lights.

✓ If over-length, or over-width, make sure all signs

and/or additional lights/flags are safely and properly

mounted, and all required permits are in driver's

possession.

✓ Rear doors securely closed, latched/locked.

Left Side

✓ Check all items as done on right side, plus:

• Battery(ies) (if not mounted in engine

compartment).

• Battery box(es) securely mounted to vehicle.

• Box has secure cover.

• Battery(ies) secured against movement.

• Battery(ies) not broken or leaking.

• Fluid in battery(ies) at proper level (except

maintenance-free type).

• Cell caps present and securely tightened (except

maintenance-free type).

• Vents in cell caps free of foreign material (except

maintenance-free type).

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Section 2 – Driving Safely 25

Step 6: Check Signal Lights

Get In and Turn Off Lights

✓ Turn off all lights.

✓ Turn on stop lights (apply trailer hand brake or have a

helper put on the brake pedal).

✓ Turn on left turn signal lights.

Get Out and Check Lights

✓ Left front turn signal light clean, operating, and proper

color (amber or white on signals facing the front).

✓ Left rear turn signal light and both stop lights clean,

operating, and proper color (red, yellow, or amber).

Get In Vehicle

✓ Turn off lights not needed for driving.

✓ Check for all required papers, trip manifests, permits,

etc.

✓ Secure all loose articles in cab (they might interfere

with operation of the controls or hit you in a crash).

✓ Start the engine.

Step 7: Start the Engine and Check

Test for Hydraulic Leaks

If the vehicle has hydraulic brakes, pump the brake pedal

three times. Then apply firm pressure to the pedal and

hold for five seconds. The pedal should not move. If it

does, there may be a leak or other problem. Get it fixed

before driving. If the vehicle has air brakes, do the checks

described in Sections 5 and 6 of this manual.

Brake System

Test Parking Brake(s)

✓ Fasten safety belt

✓ Set parking brake (power unit only).

✓ Release trailer parking brake (if applicable).

✓ Place vehicle into a low gear.

✓ Gently pull forward against parking brake to make sure

the parking brake holds.

✓ Repeat the same steps for the trailer with trailer

parking brake set and power unit parking brakes

released (if applicable).

If it doesn't hold vehicle, it is faulty; get it fixed.

Test Service Brake Stopping Action

✓ Go about five miles per hour.

✓ Push brake pedal firmly

✓ "Pulling" to one side or the other can mean brake

trouble.

✓ Any unusual brake pedal "feel" or delayed stopping

action can mean trouble.

If you find anything unsafe during the Vehicle inspection,

get it fixed. Federal and state laws forbid operating an

unsafe vehicle.

2.1.6 – Inspection During a Trip

Check Vehicle Operation Regularly

You should check:

✓ Instruments.

✓ Air pressure gauge (if you have air brakes).

✓ Temperature gauges.

✓ Pressure gauges.

✓ Ammeter/voltmeter.

✓ Mirrors.

✓ Tires.

✓ Cargo, cargo covers.

✓ Lights, etc.

If you see, hear, smell, or feel anything that might mean

trouble, check it out.

Safety Inspection

Drivers of trucks and truck tractors when transporting

cargo must inspect the securement of the cargo within the

first 50 miles of a trip and every 150 miles or every three

hours (whichever comes first) after.

2.1.7 – After-trip Inspection and Report

You may have to make a written report each day on the

condition of the vehicle(s) you drove. Report anything

affecting safety or possibly leading to mechanical

breakdown.

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26 Section 2 – Driving Safely

Subsection 2.1

Test Your Knowledge

The vehicle inspection report tells the motor carrier about

problems that may need fixing. Keep a copy of your report

in the vehicle for one day. That way, the next driver can

learn about any problems you have found.

1. What is the most important reason for doing a vehicle

inspection?

2. What things should you check during a trip?

3. Name some key steering system parts.

4. Name some suspension system defects.

5. What three kinds of emergency equipment must you

have?

6. What is the minimum tread depth for front tires? For

other tires?

7. Name some things you should check on the front of

your vehicle during the walk around inspection.

8. What should wheel bearing seals be checked for?

9. How many red reflective triangles should you carry?

10. How do you test hydraulic brakes for leaks?

11. Why put the starter switch key in your pocket during

the Vehicle inspection?

These questions may be on your test. If you cannot

answer them all, re-read subsection 2.1.

2.2 – Basic Control of Your Vehicle

To drive a vehicle safely, you must be able to control its

speed and direction. Safe operation of a commercial

vehicle requires skill in:

✓ Accelerating.

✓ Steering.

✓ Stopping.

✓ Backing safely.

Fasten your seatbelt when on the road. Apply the parking

brake when you leave your vehicle.

2.2.1 – Accelerating

Do not roll back when you start. You may hit someone

behind you. If you have a manual transmission vehicle,

partly engage the clutch before you take your right foot off

the brake. Put on the parking brake whenever necessary

to keep from rolling back. Release the parking brake only

when you have applied enough engine power to keep from

rolling back. On a tractor-trailer equipped with a trailer

brake hand valve, the hand valve can be applied to keep

from rolling back.

Speed up smoothly and gradually so the vehicle does not

jerk. Rough acceleration can cause mechanical damage.

When pulling a trailer, rough acceleration can damage the

coupling.

Speed up very gradually when traction is poor, as in rain or

snow. If you use too much power, the drive wheels may

spin. You could lose control. If the drive wheels begin to

spin, take your foot off the accelerator.

2.2.2 – Steering

Hold the steering wheel firmly with both hands. Your hands

should be on opposite sides of the wheel. If you hit a curb

or a pothole (chuckhole), the wheel could pull away from

your hands unless you have a firm hold.

2.2.3 – Stopping

Push the brake pedal down gradually. The amount of

brake pressure you need to stop the vehicle will depend on

the speed of the vehicle and how quickly you need to stop.

Control the pressure so the vehicle comes to a smooth,

safe stop. If you have a manual transmission, push the

clutch in when the engine is close to idle.

2.2.4 – Backing Safely

Because you cannot see everything behind your vehicle,

backing is always dangerous. Avoid backing whenever you

can. When you park, try to park so you will be able to pull

forward when you leave. When you have to back, here are

a few simple safety rules:

✓ Start in the proper position.

✓ Look at your path.

✓ Use mirrors on both sides.

✓ Back slowly.

✓ Back and turn toward the driver's side whenever

possible.

✓ Use a helper whenever possible.

These rules are discussed in turn below.

Start in the Proper Position

Put the vehicle in the best position to allow you to back

safely. This position will depend on the type of backing to

be done.

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Section 2 – Driving Safely 27

Look at Your Path

Look at your line of travel before you begin. Get out and

walk around the vehicle. Check your clearance to the sides

and overhead, in and near the path your vehicle will take.

Use Mirrors on Both Sides

Check the outside mirrors on both sides frequently. Get

out of the vehicle and check your path if you are unsure.

Back Slowly

Always back as slowly as possible. Use the lowest reverse

gear. That way you can more easily correct any steering

errors. You also can stop quickly if necessary.

Back and Turn Toward the Driver's Side

Back to the driver's side so that you can see better.

Backing toward the right side is very dangerous because

you cannot see as well. If you back and turn toward the

driver's side, you can watch the rear of your vehicle by

looking out the side window. Use driver-side backing--even

if it means going around the block to put your vehicle in

this position. The added safety is worth it.

Use a Helper

Use a helper when you can. There are blind spots you

cannot see. That is why a helper is important. The helper

should stand near the back of your vehicle where you can

see the helper. Before you begin backing, work out a set of

hand signals that you both understand. Agree on a signal

for "stop."

2.3 – Shifting Gears

Correct shifting of gears is important. If you cannot get

your vehicle into the right gear while driving, you will have

less control.

2.3.1 – Manual Transmissions

Basic Method for Shifting Up

Most heavy vehicles with unsynchronized manual

transmissions require double clutching to change gears. If

equipped with a synchronized manual transmission,

double clutching is NOT required. This is the basic

method:

✓ Release accelerator, push in clutch and shift to neutral

at the same time.

✓ Release clutch.

✓ Let engine and gears slow down to the rpm required

for the next gear (this takes practice).

✓ Push in clutch and shift to the higher gear at the same

time.

✓ Release clutch and press accelerator at the same

time.

Shifting gears using double clutching requires practice. If

you remain too long in neutral, you may have difficulty

putting the vehicle into the next gear. If so, do not try to

force it. Return to neutral, release clutch, increase engine

speed to match road speed, and try again.

Knowing When to Shift Up

There are two ways of knowing when to shift:

1. Use Engine Speed (rpm)

Study the driver's manual for your vehicle and learn the

operating rpm range. Watch your tachometer and shift up

when your engine reaches the top of the range. (Some

newer vehicles use "progressive" shifting: the rpm at

which you shift becomes higher as you move up in the

gears. Find out what is right for the vehicle you will

operate.)

2. Use Road Speed (mph)

Learn what speeds each gear is good for. Then, by using

the speedometer, you will know when to shift up.

With either method, you may learn to use engine sounds

to know when to shift.

Basic Procedures for Shifting Down

✓ Release accelerator, push in clutch, and shift to

neutral at the same time.

✓ Release clutch.

✓ Press accelerator, increase engine and gear speed to

the rpm required in the lower gear.

✓ Push in clutch and shift to lower gear at the same time.

✓ Release clutch and press accelerator at the same

time.

✓ Downshifting, like upshifting, requires knowing when to

shift. Use either the tachometer or the speedometer

and downshift at the right rpm or road speed.

Special conditions where you should downshift are:

1. Before Starting Down a Hill

Slow down and shift down to a speed that you can control

without using the brakes hard. Otherwise, the brakes can

overheat and lose their braking power.

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28 Section 2 – Driving Safely

Downshift before starting down the hill. Make sure you are

in a low enough gear, usually lower than the gear required

to climb the same hill.

2. Before Entering a Curve

Slow down to a safe speed, and downshift to the right gear

before entering the curve. This lets you use some power

through the curve to help the vehicle be more stable while

turning. It also allows you to speed up as soon as you are

out of the curve.

2.3.2 – Multi-speed Rear Axles and Auxiliary

Transmissions

Multi-speed rear axles and auxiliary transmissions are

used on many vehicles to provide extra gears. You usually

control them by a selector knob or switch on the gearshift

lever of the main transmission. There are many different

shift patterns. Learn the right way to shift gears in the

vehicle you will drive.

2.3.3 – Automatic Transmissions

Some vehicles have automatic transmissions. You can

select a low range to get greater engine braking when

going down grades. The lower ranges prevent the

transmission from shifting up beyond the selected gear

(unless the governor rpm is exceeded). It is very important

to use this braking effect when going down grades.

2.3.4 – Retarders

Some vehicles have "retarders." Retarders help slow a

vehicle, reducing the need for using your brakes. They

reduce brake wear and give you another way to slow

down. There are four basic types of retarders (exhaust,

engine, hydraulic, and electric). All retarders can be turned

on or off by the driver. On some vehicles the retarding

power can be adjusted. When turned "on," retarders apply

their braking power (to the drive wheels only) whenever

you let up on the accelerator pedal all the way. Because

these devices can be noisy, be sure you know where their

use is permitted.

Caution

When your drive wheels have poor traction, the retarder

may cause them to skid. Therefore, you should turn the

retarder off whenever the road is wet, icy, or snow

covered.

Subsections 2.2 and 2.3

Test Your Knowledge

1. Why should you back toward the driver's side?

2. If stopped on a hill, how can you start moving without

rolling back?

3. When backing, why is it important to use a helper?

4. What's the most important hand signal that you and

the helper should agree on?

5. What are the two special conditions where you should

downshift?

6. When should you downshift automatic transmissions?

7. Retarders keep you from skidding when the road is

slippery. True or False?

8. What are the two ways to know when to shift?

These questions may be on the test. If you cannot answer

them all, re-read subsections 2.2 and 2.3.

2.4 – Seeing

To be a safe driver you need to know what's going on all

around your vehicle. Not looking properly is a major cause

of accidents.

2.4.1 – Seeing Ahead

All drivers look ahead; but many do not look far enough

ahead.

Importance of Looking Far Enough Ahead

Because stopping or changing lanes can take a lot of

distance, knowing what the traffic is doing on all sides of

you is very important. You need to look well ahead to

make sure you have room to make these moves safely.

How Far Ahead to Look

Most good drivers look at least 12 to 15 seconds ahead.

That means looking ahead the distance you will travel in

12 to 15 seconds. At lower speeds, that's about one block.

At highway speeds it's about a quarter of a mile. If you are

not looking that far ahead, you may have to stop too

quickly or make quick lane changes. Looking 12 to 15

seconds ahead doesn't mean not paying attention to things

that are closer. Good drivers shift their attention back and

forth, near and far. Figure 2.6 illustrates how far to look

ahead.

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Section 2 – Driving Safely 29

Figure 2.6

Look for Traffic

Look for vehicles coming onto the highway, into your lane,

or turning. Watch for brake lights from slowing vehicles. By

seeing these things far enough ahead, you can change

your speed, or change lanes if necessary to avoid a

problem. If a traffic light has been green for a long time it

will probably change before you get there. Start slowing

down and be ready to stop.

2.4.2 – Seeing to the Sides and Rear

It's important to know what's going on behind and to the

sides. Check your mirrors regularly. Check more often in

special situations.

Mirror Adjustment

Mirror adjustment should be checked prior to the start of

any trip and can only be checked accurately when the

trailer(s) are straight. You should check and adjust each

mirror to show some part of the vehicle. This will give you

a reference point for judging the position of the other

images.

Regular Checks

You need to make regular checks of your mirrors to be

aware of traffic and to check your vehicle.

Traffic

Check your mirrors for vehicles on either side and in back

of you. In an emergency, you may need to know whether

you can make a quick lane change. Use your mirrors to

spot overtaking vehicles. There are "blind spots" that your

mirrors cannot show you. Check your mirrors regularly to

know where other vehicles are around you, and to see if

they move into your blind spots.

Check Your Vehicle

Use the mirrors to keep an eye on your tires. It is one way

to spot a tire fire. If you're carrying open cargo, you can

use the mirrors to check it. Look for loose straps, ropes, or

chains. Watch for a flapping or ballooning tarp.

Special Situations

Special situations require more than regular mirror checks.

These are lane changes, turns, merges, and tight

maneuvers.

Lane Changes

You need to check your mirrors to make sure no one is

alongside you or about to pass you. Check your mirrors:

✓ Before you change lanes to make sure there is enough

room.

✓ After you have signaled, to check that no one has

moved into your blind spot.

✓ Right after you start the lane change, to double-check

that your path is clear.

✓ After you complete the lane change.

Turns

In turns, check your mirrors to make sure the rear of your

vehicle will not hit anything.

Merges

When merging, use your mirrors to make sure the gap in

traffic is large enough for you to enter safely.

Tight Maneuvers

Any time you are driving in close quarters, check your

mirrors often. Make sure you have enough clearance.

How to Use Mirrors

Use mirrors correctly by checking them quickly and

understanding what you see.

✓ When you use your mirrors while driving on the road,

check quickly. Look back and forth between the

mirrors and the road ahead. Don't focus on the mirrors

for too long. Otherwise, you will travel quite a distance

without knowing what's happening ahead.

Many large vehicles have curved (convex, "fisheye,"

"spot," "bug-eye") mirrors that show a wider area than flat

mirrors. This is often helpful. But everything appears

smaller in a convex mirror than it would if you were looking

at it directly. Things also seem farther away than they

really are. It is important to realize this and to allow for it.

Figure 2.7 shows the field of vision using a convex mirror.

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30 Section 2 – Driving Safely

Figure 2.7

2.5 – Communicating

2.5.1 – Signal Your Intentions

Other drivers cannot know what you are going to do until

you tell them.

Signaling what you intend to do is important for safety.

Here are some general rules for signaling.

Turns

There are three good rules for using turn signals:

✓ Signal early. Signal well before you turn. It is the best

way to keep others from trying to pass you.

✓ Signal continuously. You need both hands on the

wheel to turn safely. Don't cancel the signal until you

have completed the turn.

✓ Cancel your signal. Don't forget to turn off your turn

signal after you've turned (if you don't have self-

canceling signals).

Lane Changes

Put your turn signal on before changing lanes. Change

lanes slowly and smoothly. That way a driver you didn't

see may have a chance to honk his/her horn or avoid your

vehicle.

Slowing Down

Warn drivers behind you when you see you'll need to slow

down. A few light taps on the brake pedal -- enough to

flash the brake lights -- should warn following drivers. Use

the four-way emergency flashers for times when you are

driving very slowly or are stopped. Warn other drivers in

any of the following situations:

✓ Trouble Ahead. The size of your vehicle may make it

hard for drivers behind you to see hazards ahead. If

you see a hazard that will require slowing down, warn

the drivers behind by flashing your brake lights.

✓ Tight Turns. Most car drivers don't know how slowly

you have to go to make a tight turn in a large vehicle.

Give drivers behind you warning by braking early and

slowing gradually.

✓ Stopping on the Road. Truck and bus drivers

sometimes stop in the roadway to unload cargo or

passengers, or to stop at a railroad crossing. Warn

following drivers by flashing your brake lights. Don't

stop suddenly.

✓ Driving Slowly. Drivers often do not realize how fast

they are catching up to a slow vehicle until they are

very close. If you must drive slowly, alert following

drivers by turning on your emergency flashers if it is

legal. (Laws regarding the use of flashers differ from

one state to another. Check the laws of the states

where you will drive.)

Don't Direct Traffic

Some drivers try to help out others by signaling when it is

safe to pass. You should not do this. You could cause an

accident. You could be blamed, and it could cost you many

thousands of dollars.

2.5.2 – Communicating Your Presence

Other drivers may not notice your vehicle even when it's in

plain sight. To help prevent accidents, let them know

you're there.

When Passing

Whenever you are about to pass a vehicle, pedestrian, or

bicyclist, assume they don't see you. They could suddenly

move in front of you. When it is legal, tap the horn lightly

or, at night, flash your lights from low to high beam and

back. And, drive carefully enough to avoid a crash even if

they don't see or hear you.

When It's Hard to See

At dawn, dusk, in rain, or snow, you need to make yourself

easier to see. If you are having trouble seeing other

vehicles, other drivers will have trouble seeing you. Turn

on your lights. Use the headlights, not just the identification

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Section 2 – Driving Safely 31

or clearance lights. Use the low beams; high beams can

bother people in the daytime as well as at night.

When Parked at the Side of the Road

When you pull off the road and stop, be sure to turn on the

four-way emergency flashers. This is important at night.

Don't trust the taillights to give warning. Drivers have

crashed into the rear of a parked vehicle because they

thought it was moving normally.

If you must stop on a road or the shoulder of any road, you

must put out your emergency warning devices within ten

minutes. Place your warning devices at the following

locations:

✓ If you must stop on or by a one-way or divided

highway, place warning devices 10 feet, 100 feet, and

200 feet toward the approaching traffic. See Figure

2.8.

Figure 2.8

✓ If you stop on a two-lane road carrying traffic in both

directions or on an undivided highway, place warning

devices within 10 feet of the front or rear corners to

mark the location of the vehicle and 100 feet behind

and ahead of the vehicle, on the shoulder or in the

lane you stopped in. See Figure 2.9.

Figure 2.9

✓ Back beyond any hill, curve, or other obstruction that

prevents other drivers from seeing the vehicle within

500 feet. If line of sight view is obstructed due to hill or

curve, move the rear-most triangle to a point back

down the road so warning is provided. See Figure

2.10.

Figure 2.10

When putting out the triangles, hold them between yourself

and the oncoming traffic for your own safety. (So other

drivers can see you.)

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32 Section 2 – Driving Safely

Use Your Horn When Needed

Your horn can let others know you're there. It can help to

avoid a crash. Use your horn when needed. However, it

can startle others and could be dangerous when used

unnecessarily.

2.6 – Controlling Speed

Driving too fast is a major cause of fatal crashes. You must

adjust your speed depending on driving conditions. These

include traction, curves, visibility, traffic, and hills.

2.6.1 – Stopping Distance

Perception Distance + Reaction Distance + Braking

Distance = Total Stopping Distance

Perception Distance

The distance your vehicle travels, in ideal conditions; from

the time your eyes see a hazard until your brain

recognizes it. Keep in mind certain mental and physical

conditions can affect your perception distance. It can be

affected greatly depending on visibility and the hazard

itself. The average perception time for an alert driver is

1¾ seconds. At 55 mph this accounts for 142 feet

traveled.

Reaction Distance

The distance you will continue to travel, in ideal conditions;

before you physically hit the brakes, in response to a

hazard seen ahead. The average driver has a reaction

time of ¾ second to 1 second. At 55 mph this accounts for

61 feet traveled.

Braking Distance

The distance your vehicle will travel, in ideal conditions;

while you are braking. At 55 mph on dry pavement with

good brakes, it can take about 216 feet.

Total Stopping Distance

The total minimum distance your vehicle has traveled, in

ideal conditions; with everything considered, including

perception distance, reaction distance and braking

distance, until you can bring your vehicle to a complete

stop. At 55 mph, your vehicle will travel a minimum of 419

feet. See Figure 2.11.

Figure 2.11

The Effect of Speed on Stopping Distance

The faster you drive, the greater the impact or striking

power of your vehicle. When you double your speed from

20 to 40 mph the impact is 4 times greater. The braking

distance is also 4 times longer. Triple the speed from 20

to 60 mph and the impact and braking distance is 9 times

greater. At 60 mph, your stopping distance is greater than

the length of a football field. Increase the speed to 80 mph

and the impact and braking distance are 16 times greater

than at 20 mph. High speeds greatly increase the severity

of crashes and stopping distances. By slowing down, you

can reduce braking distance.

The Effect of Vehicle Weight on Stopping

Distance

The heavier the vehicle, the more work the brakes must do

to stop it and the more heat they absorb. But the brakes,

tires, springs, and shock absorbers on heavy vehicles are

designed to work best when the vehicle is fully loaded.

Empty trucks require greater stopping distances because

an empty vehicle has less traction.

2.6.2 – Matching Speed to the Road Surface

You can't steer or brake a vehicle unless you have

traction. Traction is friction between the tires and the road.

There are some road conditions that reduce traction and

call for lower speeds.

Slippery Surfaces

It will take longer to stop, and it will be harder to turn

without skidding, when the road is slippery. Wet roads can

double stopping distance. You must drive slower to be

able to stop in the same distance as on a dry road.

Reduce speed by about one-third (e.g., slow from 55 to

about 35 mph) on a wet road. On packed snow, reduce

speed by a half, or more. If the surface is icy, reduce

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Section 2 – Driving Safely 33

speed to a crawl and stop driving as soon as you can

safely do so.

Identifying Slippery Surfaces

Sometimes it's hard to know if the road is slippery. Here

are some signs of slippery roads:

✓ Shaded Areas. Shady parts of the road will remain icy

and slippery long after open areas have melted.

✓ Bridges. When the temperature drops, bridges will

freeze before the road will. Be especially careful when

the temperature is close to 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

✓ Melting Ice. Slight melting will make ice wet. Wet ice is

much more slippery than ice that is not wet.

✓ Black Ice. Black ice is a thin layer that is clear enough

that you can see the road underneath it. It makes the

road look wet. Any time the temperature is below

freezing, and the road looks wet, watch out for black

ice.

✓ Vehicle Icing. An easy way to check for ice is to open

the window and feel the front of the mirror, mirror

support, or antenna. If there's ice on these, the road

surface is probably starting to ice up.

✓ Just After Rain Begins. Right after it starts to rain, the

water mixes with oil left on the road by vehicles. This

makes the road very slippery. If the rain continues, it

will wash the oil away.

✓ Hydroplaning. In some weather, water or slush collects

on the road. When this happens, your vehicle can

hydroplane. It's like water skiing--the tires lose their

contact with the road and have little or no traction. You

may not be able to steer or brake. You can regain

control by releasing the accelerator and pushing in the

clutch. This will slow your vehicle and let the wheels

turn freely. If the vehicle is hydroplaning, do not use

the brakes to slow down. If the drive wheels start to

skid, push in the clutch to let them turn freely.

It does not take a lot of water to cause hydroplaning.

Hydroplaning can occur at speeds as low as 30 mph if

there is a lot of water. Hydroplaning is more likely if tire

pressure is low, or the tread is worn. (The grooves in a tire

carry away the water; if they aren't deep, they don't work

well.)

Road surfaces where water can collect can create

conditions that cause a vehicle to hydroplane. Watch for

clear reflections, tire splashes, and raindrops on the road.

These are indications of standing water.

2.6.3 – Speed and Curves

Drivers must adjust their speed for curves in the road. If

you take a curve too fast, two things can happen. The tires

can lose their traction and continue straight ahead, so you

skid off the road. Or the tires may keep their traction and

the vehicle rolls over. Tests have shown that trucks with a

high center of gravity can roll over at the posted speed

limit for a curve.

Slow to a safe speed before you enter a curve. Braking in

a curve is dangerous because it is easier to lock the

wheels and cause a skid. Slow down as needed. Don't

ever exceed the posted speed limit for the curve. Be in a

gear that will let you accelerate slightly in the curve. This

will help you keep control.

2.6.4 – Speed and Distance Ahead

You should always be able to stop within the distance you

can see ahead. Fog, rain, or other conditions may require

that you slow down to be able to stop in the distance you

can see. At night, you can't see as far with low beams as

you can with high beams. When you must use low beams,

slow down.

2.6.5 – Speed and Traffic Flow

When you're driving in heavy traffic, the safest speed is the

speed of other vehicles. Vehicles going the same direction

at the same speed are not likely to run into one another. In

many states, speed limits are lower for trucks and buses

than for cars. It can vary as much as 15 mph. Use extra

caution when you change lanes or pass on these

roadways. Drive at the speed of the traffic, if you can

without going at an illegal or unsafe speed. Keep a safe

following distance.

The main reason drivers exceed speed limits is to save

time. But anyone trying to drive faster than the speed of

traffic will not be able to save much time. The risks

involved are not worth it. If you go faster than the speed of

other traffic, you'll have to keep passing other vehicles.

This increases the chance of a crash, and it is more tiring.

Fatigue increases the chance of a crash. Going with the

flow of traffic is safer and easier.

2.6.6 – Speed on Downgrades

Your vehicle's speed will increase on downgrades because

of gravity. Your most important objective is to select and

maintain a speed that is not too fast for the:

✓ Total weight of the vehicle and cargo.

✓ Length of the grade.

✓ Steepness of the grade.

✓ Road conditions.

✓ Weather.

If a speed limit is posted, or there is a sign indicating

"Maximum Safe Speed," never exceed the speed shown.

Also, look for and heed warning signs indicating the length

and steepness of the grade. You must use the braking

effect of the engine as the principal way of controlling your

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34 Section 2 – Driving Safely

speed on downgrades. The braking effect of the engine is

greatest when it is near the governed rpms and the

transmission is in the lower gears. Save your brakes so

you will be able to slow or stop as required by road and

traffic conditions. Shift your transmission to a low gear

before starting down the grade and use the proper braking

techniques.

Please carefully read the section on going down long,

steep downgrades safely in "Mountain Driving."

2.6.7 – Roadway Work Zones

Speeding traffic is the number one cause of injury and

death in roadway work zones. Observe the posted speed

limits at all times when approaching and driving through a

work zone.

Watch your speedometer, and don’t allow your speed to

creep up as you drive through long sections of road

construction. Decrease your speed for adverse weather or

road conditions. Decrease your speed even further when a

worker is close to the roadway.

Subsections 2.4, 2.5, and 2.6

Test Your Knowledge

1. How far ahead does the manual say you should look?

2. What are two main things to look for ahead?

3. What's your most important way to see the sides and

rear of your vehicle?

4. What does "communicating" mean in safe driving?

5. Where should you place reflectors when stopped on a

divided highway?

6. What three things add up to total stopping distance?

7. If you go twice as fast, will your stopping distance

increase by two or four times?

8. Empty trucks have the best braking. True or False?

9. What is hydroplaning?

10. What is "black ice”?

These questions may be on the test. If you can't answer

them all, re-read subsections 2.4, 2.5, and 2.6.

2.7 – Managing Space

To be a safe driver, you need space all around your

vehicle. When things go wrong, space gives you time to

think and to take action.

To have space available when something goes wrong, you

need to manage space. While this is true for all drivers, it

is very important for large vehicles. They take up more

space and they require more space for stopping and

turning.

2.7.1 – Space Ahead

Of all the space around your vehicle, it is the area ahead

of the vehicle--the space you're driving into --that is most

important.

The Need for Space Ahead

You need space ahead in case you must suddenly stop.

According to accident reports, the vehicle that trucks and

buses most often run into is the one in front of them. The

most frequent cause is following too closely. Remember, if

the vehicle ahead of you is smaller than yours, it can

probably stop faster than you can. You may crash if you

are following too closely.

How Much Space?

How much space should you keep in front of you? One

good rule says you need at least one second for each 10

feet of vehicle length at speeds below 40 mph. At greater

speeds, you must add 1 second for safety. For example, if

you are driving a 40-foot vehicle, you should leave 4

seconds between you and the vehicle ahead. In a 60-foot

rig, you'll need 6 seconds. Over 40 mph, you'd need 5

seconds for a 40-foot vehicle and 7 seconds for a 60-foot

vehicle. See Figure 2.12.

To know how much space you have, wait until the vehicle

ahead passes a shadow on the road, a pavement marking,

or some other clear landmark. Then count off the seconds

like this: "one thousand- and-one, one thousand-and-two"

and so on, until you reach the same spot. Compare your

count with the rule of one second for every ten feet of

length.

If you are driving a 40-foot truck and only counted up to 2

seconds, you're too close. Drop back a little and count

again until you have 4 seconds of following distance (or 5

seconds, if you're going over 40 mph). After a little

practice, you will know how far back you should be.

Remember to add 1 second for speeds above 40 mph.

Also remember that when the road is slippery, you need

much more space to stop.

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Section 2 – Driving Safely 35

Figure 2.12

2.7.2 – Space Behind

You can't stop others from following you too closely. But

there are things you can do to make it safer.

Stay to the Right

Heavy vehicles are often tailgated when they can't keep up

with the speed of traffic. This often happens when you're

going uphill. If a heavy load is slowing you down, stay in

the right lane if you can. Going uphill, you should not pass

another slow vehicle unless you can get around quickly

and safely.

Dealing with Tailgaters Safely

In a large vehicle, it's often hard to see whether a vehicle

is close behind you. You may be tailgated:

✓ When you are traveling slowly. Drivers trapped behind

slow vehicles often follow closely.

✓ In bad weather. Many car drivers follow large vehicles

closely during bad weather, especially when it is hard

to see the road ahead.

If you find yourself being tailgated, here are some things

you can do to reduce the chances of a crash:

✓ Avoid quick changes. If you have to slow down or turn,

signal early, and reduce speed very gradually.

✓ Increase your following distance. Opening up room in

front of you will help you to avoid having to make

sudden speed or direction changes. It also makes it

easier for the tailgater to get around you.

✓ Don't speed up. It's safer to be tailgated at a low speed

than a high speed.

✓ Avoid tricks. Don't turn on your taillights or flash your

brake lights. Follow the suggestions above.

2.7.3 – Space to the Sides

Commercial vehicles are often wide and take up most of a

lane. Safe drivers will manage what little space they have.

You can do this by keeping your vehicle centered in your

lane and avoid driving alongside others.

Staying Centered in a Lane

You need to keep your vehicle centered in the lane to keep

safe clearance on either side. If your vehicle is wide, you

have little room to spare.

Traveling Next to Others

There are two dangers in traveling alongside other

vehicles:

✓ Another driver may change lanes suddenly and turn

into you.

✓ You may be trapped when you need to change lanes.

Find an open spot where you aren't near other traffic.

When traffic is heavy, it may be hard to find an open spot.

If you must travel near other vehicles, try to keep as much

space as possible between you and them. Also, drop back

or pull forward so that you are sure the other driver can

see you.

Strong Winds

Strong winds make it difficult to stay in your lane. The

problem is usually worse for lighter vehicles. This problem

can be especially bad coming out of tunnels. Don't drive

alongside others if you can avoid it.

2.7.4 – Space Overhead

Hitting overhead objects is a danger. Make sure you

always have overhead clearance.

✓ Don't assume that the heights posted at bridges and

overpasses are correct. Re-paving or packed snow

may have reduced the clearances since the heights

were posted.

✓ The weight of a cargo van changes its height. An

empty van is higher than a loaded one. That you got

under a bridge when you were loaded does not mean

that you can do it when you are empty.

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36 Section 2 – Driving Safely

✓ If you doubt you have safe space to pass under an

object, go slowly. If you aren't sure you can make it,

take another route. Warnings are often posted on low

bridges or underpasses, but sometimes they are not.

✓ Some roads can cause a vehicle to tilt. There can be a

problem clearing objects along the edge of the road,

such as signs, trees, or bridge supports. Where this is

a problem, drive a little closer to the center of the road.

✓ Before you back into an area, get out and check for

overhanging objects such as trees, branches, or

electric wires. It's easy to miss seeing them while you

are backing. (Also check for other hazards at the same

time.)

2.7.5 – Space Below

Many drivers forget about the space under their vehicles.

That space can be very small when a vehicle is heavily

loaded. This is often a problem on dirt roads and in

unpaved yards. Don't take a chance on getting hung up.

Drainage channels across roads can cause the ends of

some vehicles to drag. Cross such depressions carefully.

Railroad tracks can also cause problems, particularly when

pulling trailers with a low underneath clearance. Don’t take

a chance on getting hung up halfway across.

2.7.6 – Space for Turns

The space around a truck or bus is important in turns.

Because of wide turning and off-tracking, large vehicles

can hit other vehicles or objects during turns.

Right Turns

Here are some rules to help prevent right-turn crashes:

✓ Turn slowly to give yourself and others more time to

avoid problems.

✓ If you are driving a truck or bus that cannot make the

right turn without swinging into another lane, turn wide

as you complete the turn. Keep the rear of your vehicle

close to the curb. This will stop other drivers from

passing you on the right.

✓ Don't turn wide to the left as you start the turn. A

following driver may think you are turning left and try to

pass you on the right. You may crash into the other

vehicle as you complete your turn.

✓ If you must cross into the oncoming lane to make a

turn, watch out for vehicles coming toward you. Give

them room to go by or to stop. However, don't back up

for them, because you might hit someone behind you.

See Figure 2.13.

Figure 2.13

Left Turns

On a left turn, make sure you have reached the center of

the intersection before you start the left turn. If you turn too

soon, the left side of your vehicle may hit another vehicle

because of off-tracking.

If there are two turning lanes, always take the right turn

lane. Don't start in the inside lane because you may have

to swing right to make the turn. Drivers on your left can be

more readily seen. See Figure 2.14.

Figure 2.14

2.7.7 – Space Needed to Cross or Enter

Traffic

Be aware of the size and weight of your vehicle when you

cross or enter traffic. Here are some important things to

keep in mind.

✓ Because of slow acceleration and the space large

vehicles require, you may need a much larger gap to

enter traffic than you would in a car.

✓ Acceleration varies with the load. Allow more room if

your vehicle is heavily loaded.

✓ Before you start across a road, make sure you can get

all the way across before traffic reaches you.

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Section 2 – Driving Safely 37

2.8 – Seeing Hazards

2.8.1 – Importance of Seeing Hazards

What is a Hazard?

A hazard is any road condition or other road user (driver,

bicyclist, pedestrian) that is a possible danger. For

example, a car in front of you is headed toward the

freeway exit, but his brake lights come on and he begins

braking hard. This could mean that the driver is uncertain

about taking the off ramp. He might suddenly return to the

highway. This car is a hazard. If the driver of the car cuts

in front of you, it is no longer just a hazard; it is an

emergency.

Seeing Hazards Lets You Be Prepared

You will have more time to act if you see hazards before

they become emergencies. In the example above, you

might make a lane change or slow down to prevent a

crash if the car suddenly cuts in front of you. Seeing this

hazard gives you time to check your mirrors and signal a

lane change. Being prepared reduces the danger. A driver

who did not see the hazard until the slow car pulled back

on the highway in front of him would have to do something

very suddenly. Sudden braking or a quick lane change is

much more likely to lead to a crash.

Learning to See Hazards

There are often clues that will help you see hazards. The

more you drive, the better you can learn to see hazards.

This section will talk about hazards that you should be

aware of.

2.8.2 – Hazardous Roads

Move-over Laws

The incidents of law enforcement officers, emergency

medical services, fire department personnel and people

working on the road are being struck while performing

duties at the roadside are increasing at a frightening pace.

To lessen the problem, move-over laws have been

enacted, which require drivers to slow and change lanes

when approaching a roadside incident or emergency

vehicle. Signs are posted on roadways in states that have

such laws.

When approaching an authorized emergency vehicle

stopped on the roadside or a work zone, you should

proceed with caution by slowing and yielding the right-of-

way by making a lane change into a lane not next to that of

the authorized emergency vehicle or work zone if safety

and traffic conditions permit. If a lane change is unsafe,

slow down and proceed with caution while maintaining a

safe speed for traffic conditions.

Slow down and be very careful if you see any of the

following road hazards.

Work Zones

When people are working on the road, it is a hazard. There

may be narrower lanes, sharp turns, or uneven surfaces.

Other drivers are often distracted and drive unsafely.

Workers and construction vehicles may get in the way.

Drive slowly and carefully near work zones. Use your four-

way flashers or brake lights to warn drivers behind you.

Drop Off

Sometimes the pavement drops off sharply near the edge

of the road. Driving too near the edge can tilt your vehicle

toward the side of the road. This can cause the top of your

vehicle to hit roadside objects (signs, tree limbs). Also, it

can be hard to steer as you cross the drop off, going off

the road, or coming back on.

Foreign Objects

Things that have fallen on the road can be hazards. They

can be a danger to your tires and wheel rims. They can

damage electrical and brake lines. They can be caught

between dual tires and cause severe damage. Some

obstacles that appear to be harmless can be very

dangerous. For example, cardboard boxes may be empty,

but they may also contain some solid or heavy material

capable of causing damage. The same is true of paper

and cloth sacks. It is important to remain alert for objects

of all sorts, so you can see them early enough to avoid

them without making sudden, unsafe moves.

Off Ramps/On Ramps

Freeway and turnpike exits can be particularly dangerous

for commercial vehicles. Off ramps and on ramps often

have speed limit signs posted. Remember, these speeds

may be safe for automobiles, but may not be safe for

larger vehicles or heavily loaded vehicles. Exits that go

downhill and turn at the same time can be especially

dangerous. The downgrade makes it difficult to reduce

speed. Braking and turning at the same time can be a

dangerous practice. Make sure you are going slowly

enough before you get on the curved part of an off ramp or

on ramp.

2.8.3 – Drivers Who are Hazards

In order to protect yourself and others, you must know

when other drivers may do something hazardous. Some

clues to this type of hazard are discussed below.

Blocked Vision

People who can't see others are a very dangerous hazard.

Be alert for drivers whose vision is blocked. Vans, loaded

station wagons, and cars with the rear window blocked are

examples. Rental trucks should be watched carefully.

Their drivers are often not used to the limited vision they

have to the sides and rear of the truck. In winter, vehicles

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38 Section 2 – Driving Safely

with frosted, ice-covered, or snow-covered windows are

hazards.

Vehicles may be partly hidden by blind intersections or

alleys. If you only can see the rear or front end of a vehicle

but not the driver, then he or she can't see you. Be alert

because he/she may back out or enter into your lane.

Always be prepared to stop.

Delivery Trucks Can Present a Hazard

Packages or vehicle doors often block the driver’s vision.

Drivers of step vans, postal vehicles, and local delivery

vehicles often are in a hurry and may suddenly step out of

their vehicle or drive their vehicle into the traffic lane.

Parked Vehicles Can Be Hazards

Parked vehicles can be hazards, especially when people

start to get out of them. Or, they may suddenly start up

and drive into your way. Watch for movement inside the

vehicle or movement of the vehicle itself that shows people

are inside. Watch for brake lights or backup lights,

exhaust, and other clues that a driver is about to move.

Be careful of a stopped bus. Passengers may cross in

front of or behind the bus, and they often can't see you.

Pedestrians and Bicyclists Can Also Be

Hazards

Walkers, joggers, and bicyclists may be on the road with

their back to the traffic, so they can't see you. Sometimes

they wear portable stereos with headsets, so they can't

hear you either. This can be dangerous. On rainy days,

pedestrians may not see you because of hats or

umbrellas. They may be hurrying to get out of the rain and

may not pay attention to the traffic.

Distractions

People who are distracted are hazards. Watch for where

they are looking. If they are looking elsewhere, they can't

see you. But be alert even when they are looking at you.

They may believe that they have the right of way.

Children

Children tend to act quickly without checking traffic.

Children playing with one another may not look for traffic

and are a serious hazard.

Talkers

Drivers or pedestrians talking to one another may not be

paying close attention to the traffic.

Workers

People working on or near the roadway are a hazard clue.

The work creates a distraction for other drivers and the

workers themselves may not see you.

Ice Cream Trucks

Someone selling ice cream is a hazard clue. Children may

be nearby and may not see you.

Disabled Vehicles

Drivers changing a tire or fixing an engine often do not pay

attention to the danger that roadway traffic is to them.

They are often careless. Jacked up wheels or raised

hoods are hazard clues.

Accidents

Accidents are particularly hazardous. People involved in

the accident may not look for traffic. Passing drivers tend

to look at the accident. People often run across the road

without looking. Vehicles may slow or stop suddenly.

Shoppers

People in and around shopping areas are often not

watching traffic because they are looking for stores or

looking into store windows.

Confused Drivers

Confused drivers often change direction suddenly or stop

without warning. Confusion is common near freeway or

turnpike interchanges and major intersections. Tourists

unfamiliar with the area can be very hazardous. Clues to

tourists include car-top luggage and out-of-state license

plates. Unexpected actions (stopping in the middle of a

block, changing lanes for no apparent reason, backup

lights suddenly going on) are clues to confusion. Hesitation

is another clue, including driving very slowly, using brakes

often, or stopping in the middle of an intersection. You may

also see drivers who are looking at street signs, maps, and

house numbers. These drivers may not be paying attention

to you.

Slow Drivers

Motorists who fail to maintain normal speed are hazards.

Seeing slow moving vehicles early can prevent a crash.

Some vehicles, by their nature, are slow and seeing them

is a hazard clue (mopeds, farm machinery, construction

machinery, tractors, etc.). Some of these will have the

"slow moving vehicle" symbol to warn you. This is a red

triangle with an orange center. Watch for it.

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Section 2 – Driving Safely 39

Drivers Signaling a Turn May Be a Hazard

Drivers signaling a turn may slow more than expected or

stop. If they are making a tight turn into an alley or

driveway, they may go very slowly. If pedestrians or other

vehicles block them, they may have to stop on the

roadway. Vehicles turning left may have to stop for

oncoming vehicles.

Drivers in a Hurry

Drivers may feel your commercial vehicle is preventing

them from getting where they want to go on time. Such

drivers may pass you without a safe gap in the oncoming

traffic, cutting too close in front of you. Drivers entering the

road may pull in front of you in order to avoid being stuck

behind you, causing you to brake. Be aware of this and

watch for drivers who are in a hurry.

Impaired Drivers

Drivers who are sleepy, have had too much to drink, are

on drugs, or who are ill are hazards. Some clues to these

drivers are:

✓ Weaving across the road or drifting from one side to

another.

✓ Leaving the road (dropping right wheels onto the

shoulder or bumping across a curb in a turn).

✓ Stopping at the wrong time (stopping at a green light

or waiting for too long at a stop).

✓ Open window in cold weather.

✓ Speeding up or slowing down suddenly, driving too

fast or too slow.

Be alert for drunk drivers and sleepy drivers late at night.

Driver Body Movement as a Clue

Drivers look in the direction they are going to turn. You

may sometimes get a clue from a driver's head and body

movements that a driver may be going to make a turn,

even though the turn signals aren't on. Drivers making

over-the-shoulder checks may be going to change lanes.

These clues are most easily seen in motorcyclists and

bicyclists. Watch other road users and try to tell whether

they might do something hazardous.

Conflicts

You are in conflict when you have to change speed and/or

direction to avoid hitting someone. Conflicts occur at

intersections where vehicles meet, at merges (such as

turnpike on ramps) and where there are needed lane

changes (such as the end of a lane, forcing a move to

another lane of traffic). Other situations include slow

moving or stalled traffic in a traffic lane, and accident

scenes. Watch for other drivers who are in conflict

because they are a hazard to you. When they react to this

conflict, they may do something that will put them in

conflict with you.

2.8.4 – Always Have a Plan

You should always be looking for hazards. Continue to

learn to see hazards on the road. However, don't forget

why you are looking for the hazards--they may turn into

emergencies. You look for the hazards in order to have

time to plan a way out of any emergency. When you see a

hazard, think about the emergencies that could develop

and figure out what you would do. Always be prepared to

take action based on your plans. In this way, you will be a

prepared, defensive driver who will improve your own

safety as well as the safety of all road users.

Subsections 2.7 and 2.8

Test Your Knowledge

1. How do you find out how many seconds of following

distance space you have?

2. If you are driving a 30-foot vehicle at 55 mph, how

many seconds of following distance should you allow?

3. You should decrease your following distance if

somebody is following you too closely. True or False?

4. If you swing wide to the left before turning right,

another driver may try to pass you on the right. True or

False?

5. What is a hazard?

6. Why make emergency plans when you see a hazard?

These questions may be on the test. If you can’t answer

them all, re-read subsections 2.7 and 2.8

2.9 – Distracted Driving

A driver distraction is anything that takes your attention

away from driving. Whenever you are driving a vehicle and

your full attention is not on the driving task, you are putting

yourself, your passengers, other vehicles, and pedestrians

in danger. Distracted driving can cause collisions, resulting

in injury, death or property damage.

Activities inside of the vehicle that can distract your

attention include: talking to passengers; adjusting the

radio, CD player or climate controls; eating, drinking or

smoking; reading maps or other literature; picking up

something that fell; talking on a cell phone or CB radio;

reading or sending text messages; using any type of

telematic or electronic devices (such as navigation

systems, pagers, personal digital assistant, computers,

etc.); daydreaming or being occupied with other mental

distractions; and many others.

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40 Section 2 – Driving Safely

Possible distractions that could occur outside a moving

vehicle: outside traffic, vehicles or pedestrians; outside

events such as police pulling someone over or a crash

scene; sunlight/sunset; objects in roadway; road

construction; reading billboards or other road

advertisements; and many others.

2.9.1 – The Distracted Driving Crash Problem

The Large Truck Crash Causation Study (LTCCS)

reported that 8 percent of large-truck crashes occurred

when Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) drivers were

externally distracted and 2 percent of large truck crashes

occurred when the driver was internally distracted.

Approximately 5,500 people are killed each year on U.S.

roadways and an estimated 448,000 are injured in motor

vehicle crashes involving distracted driving (NHTSA Traffic

Safety Facts: Distracted Driving).

Research indicates that the burden of talking on a cell

phone - even if it's hands-free - saps the brain of 39% of

the energy it would ordinarily devote to safe driving.

Drivers who use a hand-held device are more likely to get

into a crash serious enough to cause injury. (NHTSA

distracted driving website at distraction.gov).

2.9.2 – Effects of Distracted Driving

Effects of distracted driving include slowed perception,

which may cause you to be delayed in perceiving or

completely fail to perceive an important traffic event;

delayed decision making and improper action, which can

cause you to be delayed in taking the proper action or

make incorrect inputs to the steering, accelerator or

brakes.

2.9.3 – Types of Distractions

There are many causes of distraction, all with the potential

to increase risk.

✓ Physical distraction – one that causes you to take your

hands off the wheel or eyes off the road, such as

reaching for an object.

✓ Mental distraction – activities that take your mind away

from the road, such as engaging in conversation with a

passenger or thinking about something that happened

during the day.

✓ Both physical and mental distraction – even greater

chance a crash could happen, such as talking on a cell

phone; or sending or reading text messages.

2.9.4 – Cell/Mobile Phones

49 CFR Part 383, 384, 390, 391 and 392 of the Federal

Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) and the

Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) restricts the use

of hand-held mobile telephones by drivers of commercial

motor vehicles (CMVs); and implements new driver

disqualification sanctions for drivers of CMVs who fail to

comply with this Federal restriction; or who have multiple

convictions for violating a State or local law or ordinance

on motor vehicle traffic control that restricts the use of

hand-held mobile telephones. Additionally, motor carriers

are prohibited from requiring or allowing drivers of CMVs

to use hand-held mobile telephones.

The use of hand-held mobile telephones means, ‘‘using at

least one hand to hold a mobile telephone to conduct a

voice communication; “dialing a mobile telephone by

pressing more than a single button”; or “moving from a

seated driving position while restrained by a seat belt to

reach for a mobile telephone”. If you choose to use a

mobile phone while operating a CMV, you may only use a

hands-free mobile phone that is located close to you and

that can be operated in compliance with the rule to

conduct a voice communication.

Your CDL will be disqualified after two or more convictions

of any state law on hand-held mobile telephone use while

operating a CMV. Disqualification is 60 days for the

second offense within 3 years and 120 days for three or

more offenses within 3 years. In addition, the first and

each subsequent violation of such a prohibition are subject

to civil penalties imposed on such drivers, in an amount up

to $2,750. Motor carriers must not allow nor require drivers

to use a hand-held mobile telephone while driving.

Employers may also be subject to civil penalties in an

amount up to $11,000. There is an emergency exception

that allows you to use your hand-held mobile telephones if

necessary to communicate with law enforcement officials

or other emergency services.

Research shows that the odds of being involved in a

safety-critical event (e.g., crash, near-crash, unintentional

lane deviation) is 6 times greater for CMV drivers who

engage in dialing a mobile telephone while driving than for

those who do not. Dialing drivers took their eyes off the

forward roadway for an average of 3.8 seconds. At 55 mph

(or 80.7 feet per second), this equates to a driver traveling

306 feet, the approximate length of a football field, without

looking at the roadway.

Your primary responsibility is to operate a motor vehicle

safely. To do this, you must focus your full attention on the

driving task.

Note that hands-free devices are no less likely than hand-

held cell phones to cause you to become distracted.

Attention is diverted from the driving task while using either

device.

2.9.5 –Texting

49 CFR Part 383, 384, 390, 391, 392, the Federal Motor

Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR) prohibits texting by

commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers while operating in

interstate commerce; and implements new driver

disqualification sanctions for drivers of CMVs who fail to

comply with this Federal prohibition; or who have multiple

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convictions for violating a State or local law or ordinance

on motor vehicle traffic control that prohibits texting while

driving. Additionally, motor carriers are prohibited from

requiring or allowing their drivers to engage in texting while

driving.

Texting means manually entering text into, or reading text

from, an electronic device. This includes, but is not limited

to, short message service, e-mailing, instant messaging, a

command or request to access a World Wide Web page,

or engaging in any other form of electronic text retrieval or

entry, for present or future communication.

Electronic device includes, but is not limited to, a cellular

telephone; personal digital assistant; pager; computer; or

any other device used to enter, write, send, receive, or

read text.

Your CDL will be disqualified after two or more convictions

of any state law on texting while operating a CMV.

Disqualification is 60 days for the second offense within 3

years and 120 days for three or more offenses within 3

years. In addition, the first and each subsequent violation

of such a prohibition are subject to civil penalties imposed

on such drivers, in an amount up to $2,750. No motor

carrier shall allow or require its drivers to engage in texting

while driving. There is an emergency exception that allows

you text if necessary to communicate with law

enforcement officials or other emergency services.

Evidence suggests that text messaging is even riskier than

talking on a cell phone because it requires you to look at a

small screen and manipulate the keypad with one’s hands.

Texting is the most alarming distraction because it involves

both physical and mental distraction simultaneously.

Research shows that the odds of being involved in a

safety-critical event (e.g., crash, near-crash, unintentional

lane deviation) is 23.2 times greater for CMV drivers who

engage in texting while driving than for those who do not.

Sending or receiving text takes your eyes from the road for

an average of 4.6 seconds. At 55 mph, you would travel

371 feet, or the length of an entire football field – without

looking at the roadway.

2.9.6 – Don’t Drive Distracted

Your goal should be to eliminate all in-vehicle distractions

before driving begins. Accomplishing this goal can be done

by:

✓ Assessing all potential in-vehicle distractions before

driving

✓ Developing a preventative plan to reduce/eliminate

possible distractions

✓ Expecting distractions to occur

✓ Discussing possible scenarios before getting behind

the wheel

Based on the assessment of potential distractions, you can

formulate a preventative plan to reduce/eliminate possible

distractions. If drivers react a half-second slower because

of distractions, crashes double. Some tips to follow so you

won’t become distracted:

✓ Turn off all communication devices.

✓ If you must use a mobile phone, make sure it is within

close proximity, that it is operable while you are

restrained, use an earpiece or the speaker phone

function, use voice-activated dialing; or use the hands-

free feature. Drivers are not in compliance if they

unsafely reach for a mobile phone, even if they intend

to use the hands-free function.

✓ Do not type or read a text message on a mobile device

while driving.

✓ Familiarize yourself with your vehicle’s features and

equipment, before you get behind the wheel.

✓ Adjust all vehicle controls and mirrors to your

preferences prior to driving.

✓ Pre-program radio stations and pre-load your favorite

CDs.

✓ Clear the vehicle of any unnecessary objects and

secure cargo.

✓ Review maps, program the GPS and plan your route

before you begin driving.

✓ Don’t attempt to read or write while you drive.

✓ Avoid smoking, eating and drinking while you drive.

Leave early to allow yourself time to stop to eat.

✓ Don’t engage in complex or emotionally intense

conversations with other occupants.

✓ Secure commitment from other occupants to behave

responsibly and to support the driver in reducing

distractions.

2.9.7 – Watch Out for Other Distracted

Drivers

You need to be able to recognize other drivers who are

engaged in any form of driving distraction. Not recognizing

other distracted drivers can prevent you from perceiving or

reacting correctly in time to prevent a crash. Watch for:

✓ Vehicles that may drift over the lane divider lines or

within their own lane.

✓ Vehicles traveling at inconsistent speeds.

✓ Drivers who are preoccupied with maps, food,

cigarettes, cell phones, or other objects.

✓ Drivers who appear to be involved in conversations

with their passengers.

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Give a distracted driver plenty of room and maintain your

safe following distance. Be very careful when passing a

driver who seems to be distracted. The other driver may

not be aware of your presence, and they may drift in front

of you.

2.10 – Aggressive Drivers/Road Rage

2.10.1 – What is It?

Aggressive driving and road rage is not a new problem.

However, in today’s world, where heavy and slow-moving

traffic and tight schedules are the norm, more and more

drivers are taking out their anger and frustration in their

vehicles.

Crowded roads leave little room for error, leading to

suspicion and hostility among drivers and encouraging

them to take personally the mistakes of other drivers.

Aggressive driving is the act of operating a motor vehicle

in a selfish, bold, or pushy manner, without regard for the

rights or safety of others (i.e. changing lanes frequently

and abruptly without notice).

Road rage is operating a motor vehicle with the intent of

doing harm to others or physically assaulting a driver or

their vehicle.

2.10.2 – Don’t Be an Aggressive Driver

How you feel before you even start your vehicle has a lot

to do with how stress will affect you while driving.

✓ Reduce your stress before and while you drive. Listen

to “easy listening” music.

✓ Give the drive your full attention. Don’t allow yourself

to become distracted by talking on your cell phone,

eating, etc.

✓ Be realistic about your travel time. Expect delays

because of traffic, construction, or bad weather and

make allowances.

✓ If you’re going to be later than you expected – deal

with it. Take a deep breath and accept the delay.

✓ Give other drivers the benefit of the doubt. Try to

imagine why he or she is driving that way. Whatever

their reason, it has nothing to do with you.

✓ Slow down and keep your following distance

reasonable.

✓ Don’t drive slowly in the left lane of traffic.

✓ Avoid gestures. Keep your hands on the wheel. Avoid

making any gestures that might anger another driver,

even seemingly harmless expressions of irritation like

shaking your head.

✓ Be a cautious and courteous driver. If another driver

seems eager to get in front of you, say, “Be my guest.”

This response will soon become a habit and you won’t

be as offended by other drivers’ actions.

2.10.3 – What You Should do When

Confronted by an Aggressive Driver

✓ First and foremost, make every attempt to get out of

their way.

✓ Put your pride in the back seat. Do not challenge them

by speeding up or attempting to hold-your-own in your

travel lane.

✓ Avoid eye contact.

✓ Ignore gestures and refuse to react to them.

✓ Report aggressive drivers to the appropriate

authorities by providing a vehicle description, license

number, location and, if possible, direction of travel.

✓ If you have a cell phone, and can do it safely, call the

police.

✓ If an aggressive driver is involved in a crash farther

down the road, stop a safe distance from the crash

scene, wait for the police to arrive, and report the

driving behavior that you witnessed.

Subsections 2.9 and 2.10

Test Your Knowledge

1. What are some tips to follow so you won’t become a

distracted driver?

2. How do you use in-vehicle communications equipment

cautiously?

3. How do you recognize a distracted driver?

4. What is the difference between aggressive driving and

road rage?

5. What should you do when confronted with an

aggressive driver?

6. What are some things you can do to reduce your

stress before and while you drive?

These questions may be on the test. If you can’t answer

them all, re-read subsections 2.9 and 2.10.

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2.11 – Driving at Night

2.11.1 – It's More Dangerous

You are at greater risk when you drive at night. Drivers

cannot see hazards as quickly as in daylight, so they have

less time to respond. Drivers caught by surprise are less

able to avoid a crash. The problems of night driving involve

the driver, the roadway, and the vehicle.

2.11.2 – Driver Factors

Vision

Good vision is critical for safe driving. Your control of the

brake, accelerator, and steering wheel is based on what

you see. If you cannot see clearly, you will have trouble

identifying traffic and roadway conditions, spotting

potential trouble or responding to problems in a timely

manner.

Because seeing well is so critical to safe driving, you

should have your eyes checked regularly by an eye

specialist. You may never know you have poor vision

unless your eyes are tested. If you need to wear glasses

or contact lenses for driving, remember to:

✓ Always wear them when driving, even if driving short

distances. If your driver license says corrective lenses

are required, it is illegal to move a vehicle without

using corrective lenses.

✓ Keep an extra set of corrective lenses in your vehicle.

If your normal corrective lenses are broken or lost, you

can use the spare lenses to drive safely.

✓ Avoid using dark or tinted corrective lenses at night,

even if you think they help with glare. Tinted lenses

cut down the light that you need to see clearly under

night driving conditions.

Glare

Drivers can be blinded for a short time by bright light. It

can take several seconds to recover from glare. Even two

seconds of glare blindness can be dangerous. A vehicle

going 55 mph will travel more than half the distance of a

football field during that time.

Fatigue and Lack of Alertness

Fatigue is physical or mental tiredness that can be caused

by physical or mental strain, repetitive tasks, illness or lack

of sleep. Just like alcohol and drugs, it impairs your vision

and judgment.

Fatigue causes errors related to speed and distance,

increases your risk of being in a crash, causes you to not

see and react to hazards as quickly; and affects your

ability to make critical decisions. When you are fatigued,

you could fall asleep behind the wheel and crash, injuring

or killing yourself or others.

Fatigued or drowsy driving is one of the leading causes of

traffic collisions. NHTSA estimates that 100,000 police-

reported crashes a year are the result of drowsy driving.

According to the National Sleep Foundation’s Sleep in

America poll, 60% of Americans have driven while feeling

sleepy and more than one third (36 percent or 103 million

people) admit to having actually fallen asleep at the wheel.

Drivers may experience short bursts of sleep lasting only a

few seconds or fall asleep for longer periods of time.

Either way, the chance of a collision increases

dramatically.

At-Risk Groups

The risk of having a crash due to drowsy driving is not

uniformly distributed across the population. Crashes tend

to occur at times when sleepiness is most pronounced, for

example, during the night and in the mid-afternoon. Most

people are less alert at night, especially after midnight.

This is particularly true if you have been driving for a long

time. Thus, individuals who drive at night are much more

likely to have fall-asleep crashes.

Research has identified young males, shift workers,

commercial drivers, especially long-haul drivers and

people with untreated sleep disorders or with short-term or

chronic sleep deprivation as being at increased risk for

having a fall-asleep crash. At least 15% of all heavy truck

crashes involve fatigue.

A congressionally mandated study of 80 long-haul truck

drivers in the United States and Canada found that drivers

averaged less than 5 hours of sleep per day. (Federal

Motor Carrier Safety Administration, 1996) It is no surprise

then that the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)

reported that drowsy driving was probably the cause of

more than half of crashes leading to a truck driver’s death.

(NTSB, 1990) For each truck driver fatality, another three

to four people are killed. (NHTSA, 1994)

Warning Signs of Fatigue

According to the National Sleep Foundation’s Sleep in

America poll, 60% of Americans have driven while feeling

sleepy and 36% admit to actually having fallen asleep at

the wheel in the past year. However, many people cannot

tell if or when they are about to fall asleep. Here are some

signs that should tell you to stop and rest:

✓ Difficulty focusing, frequent blinking or heavy eyelids

✓ Yawning repeatedly or rubbing eyes

✓ Daydreaming or wandering/disconnected thoughts

✓ Trouble remembering the last few miles driven;

missing exits or traffic signs

✓ Trouble keeping head up

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✓ Drifting from your lane, following too closely or hitting a

shoulder rumble strip

✓ Feeling restless and irritable

When you are tired, trying to “push on” is far more

dangerous than most drivers think. It is a major cause of

fatal accidents. If you notice any signs of fatigue, stop

driving and go to sleep for the night or take a 15 – 20

minute nap.

Are You at Risk?

Before you drive, consider whether you are:

✓ Sleep-deprived or fatigued (6 hours of sleep or less

triples your risk)

✓ Suffering from sleep loss (insomnia), poor quality

sleep, or a sleep debt

✓ Driving long distances without proper rest breaks

✓ Driving through the night, mid-afternoon or when you

would normally be asleep. Many heavy motor vehicle

accidents occur between midnight and 6 a.m.

✓ Taking sedating medications (antidepressants, cold

tablets, antihistamines)

✓ Working more than 60 hours a week (increases your

risk by 40%)

✓ Working more than one job, and your main job

involves shift work

✓ Driving alone or on a long, rural, dark or boring road

✓ Flying, changing time zone

Preventing Drowsiness Before a Trip

✓ Get adequate sleep – adults need 8 to 9 hours to

maintain alertness

✓ Prepare route carefully to identify total distance,

stopping points and other logistic considerations

✓ Schedule trips for the hours you are normally awake,

not the middle of the night

✓ Drive with a passenger

✓ Avoid medications that cause drowsiness

✓ Consult your physician if you suffer from daytime

sleepiness, have difficulty sleeping at night or take

frequent naps

✓ Incorporate exercise into your daily life to give you

more energy.

Maintaining Alertness While Driving

✓ Protect yourself from glare and eyestrain with

sunglasses

✓ Keep cool by opening the window or using the air

conditioner

✓ Avoid heavy foods

✓ Be aware of down time during the day

✓ Have another person ride with you, and take turns

driving

✓ Take periodic breaks – about every 100 miles or 2

hours during long trips

✓ Stop driving and get some rest or take a nap

✓ Caffeine consumption can increase awareness for a

few hours, but do not drink too much. It will eventually

wear off. Do not rely on caffeine to prevent fatigue

✓ Avoid drugs. While they may keep you awake for a

while, they won’t make you alert.

If you are drowsy, the only safe cure is to get off the road

and get some sleep. If you don't, you risk your life and the

lives of others.

2.11.3 – Roadway Factors

Poor Lighting

In the daytime there is usually enough light to see well.

This is not true at night. Some areas may have bright

streetlights, but many areas will have poor lighting. On

most roads you will probably have to depend entirely on

your headlights.

Less light means you will not be able to see hazards as

well as in daytime. Road users who do not have lights are

hard to see. There are many accidents at night involving

pedestrians, joggers, bicyclists, and animals.

Even when there are lights, the road scene can be

confusing. Traffic signals and hazards can be hard to see

against a background of signs, shop windows, and other

lights.

Drive slower when lighting is poor or confusing.

Drive slowly enough to be sure you can stop in the

distance you can see ahead.

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Drunk Drivers

Drunk drivers and drivers under the influence of drugs are

a hazard to themselves and to you. Be especially alert

around the closing times for bars and taverns. Watch for

drivers who have trouble staying in their lane or

maintaining speed, who stop without reason, or show other

signs of being under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

2.11.4 – Vehicle Factors

Headlights

At night your headlights will usually be the main source of

light for you to see by and for others to see you. You can't

see nearly as much with your headlights as you see in the

daytime. With low beams you can see ahead about 250

feet and with high beams about 350-500 feet. You must

adjust your speed to keep your stopping distance within

your sight distance. This means going slowly enough to be

able to stop within the range of your headlights. Otherwise,

by the time you see a hazard, you will not have time to

stop.

Night driving can be more dangerous if you have problems

with your headlights. Dirty headlights may give only half

the light they should. This cuts down your ability to see

and makes it harder for others to see you. Make sure your

lights are clean and working. Headlights can be out of

adjustment. If they don't point in the right direction, they

won't give you a good view and they can blind other

drivers. Have a qualified person make sure they are

adjusted properly.

Other Lights

In order for you to be seen easily, the following must be

clean and working properly:

✓ Reflectors.

✓ Marker lights.

✓ Clearance lights.

✓ Taillights.

✓ Identification lights.

Turn Signals and Brake Lights

At night your turn signals and brake lights are even more

important for telling other drivers what you intend to do.

Make sure you have clean, working turn signals and stop

lights.

Windshield and Mirrors

It is more important at night than in the daytime to have a

clean windshield and clean mirrors. Bright lights at night

can cause dirt on your windshield or mirrors to create a

glare of its own, blocking your view. Most people have

experienced driving toward the sun just as it has risen or is

about to set and found that they can barely see through a

windshield that seemed to look OK in the middle of the

day. Clean your windshield on the inside and outside for

safe driving at night.

2.11.5 – Night Driving Procedures

Vehicle Procedures

Make sure you are rested and alert. If you are drowsy,

sleep before you drive! Even a nap can save your life or

the lives of others. If you wear eyeglasses, make sure they

are clean and unscratched. Don't wear sunglasses at

night. Do a complete Vehicle inspection of your vehicle.

Pay attention to checking all lights and reflectors, and

cleaning those you can reach.

Avoid Blinding Others

Glare from your headlights can cause problems for drivers

coming toward you. They can also bother drivers going in

the same direction you are when your lights shine in their

rearview mirrors. Dim your lights before they cause glare

for other drivers. Dim your lights within 500 feet of an

oncoming vehicle and when following another vehicle

within 500 feet.

Avoid Glare from Oncoming Vehicles

Do not look directly at lights of oncoming vehicles. Look

slightly to the right at a right lane or edge marking, if

available. If other drivers don't put their low beams on,

don't try to "get back at them" by putting your own high

beams on. This increases glare for oncoming drivers and

increases the chance of a crash.

Use High Beams When You Can

Some drivers make the mistake of always using low

beams. This seriously cuts down on their ability to see

ahead. Use high beams when it is safe and legal to do so.

Use them when you are not within 500 feet of an

approaching vehicle. Also, don't let the inside of your cab

get too bright. This makes it harder to see outside. Keep

the interior light off and adjust your instrument lights as low

as you can to still be able to read the gauges.

If You Get Sleepy, Stop at the Nearest Safe

Place.

People often don't realize how close they are to falling

asleep even when their eyelids are falling shut. If you can

safely do so, look at yourself in a mirror. If you look sleepy,

or you just feel sleepy, stop driving! You are in a very

dangerous condition. The only safe cure is to sleep.

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2.12 – Driving in Fog

Fog can occur at any time. Fog on highways can be

extremely dangerous. Fog is often unexpected, and

visibility can deteriorate rapidly. You should watch for

foggy conditions and be ready to reduce your speed. Do

not assume that the fog will thin out after you enter it.

The best advice for driving in fog is don’t. It is preferable

that you pull off the road into a rest area or truck stop until

visibility is better. If you must drive, be sure to consider the

following:

✓ Obey all fog-related warning signs.

✓ Slow down before you enter fog.

✓ Use low-beam headlights and fog lights for best

visibility even in daytime and be alert for other drivers

who may have forgotten to turn on their lights.

✓ Turn on your 4-way flashers. This will give vehicles

approaching you from behind a quicker opportunity to

notice your vehicle.

✓ Watch for vehicles on the side of the roadway. Seeing

taillights or headlights in front of you may not be a true

indication of where the road is ahead of you. The

vehicle may not be on the road at all.

✓ Use roadside highway reflectors as guides to

determine how the road may curve ahead of you.

✓ Listen for traffic you cannot see.

✓ Avoid passing other vehicles.

✓ Don’t stop along the side of the road, unless absolutely

necessary.

2.13 – Driving in Winter

2.13.1 – Vehicle Checks

Make sure your vehicle is ready before driving in winter

weather. You should make a regular Vehicle inspection,

paying extra attention to the following items.

Coolant Level and Antifreeze Amount

Make sure the cooling system is full and there is enough

antifreeze in the system to protect against freezing. This

can be checked with a special coolant tester.

Defrosting and Heating Equipment

Make sure the defrosters work. They are needed for safe

driving. Make sure the heater is working, and that you

know how to operate it. If you use other heaters and

expect to need them (e.g., mirror heaters, battery box

heaters, fuel tank heaters), check their operation.

Wipers and Washers

Make sure the windshield wiper blades are in good

condition. Make sure the wiper blades press against the

window hard enough to wipe the windshield clean,

otherwise they may not sweep off snow properly. Make

sure the windshield washer works and there is washing

fluid in the washer reservoir.

Use windshield washer antifreeze to prevent freezing of

the washer liquid. If you can't see well enough while

driving (for example, if your wipers fail), stop safely and fix

the problem.

Tires

Make sure you have enough tread on your tires. The drive

tires must provide traction to push the rig over wet

pavement and through snow. The steering tires must have

traction to steer the vehicle. Enough tread is especially

important in winter conditions. You must have at least

4/32-inch tread depth in every major groove on front tires

and at least 2/32 inch on other tires. More would be better.

Use a gauge to determine if you have enough tread for

safe driving.

Tire Chains

You may find yourself in conditions where you can't drive

without chains, even to get to a place of safety. Carry the

right number of chains and extra cross-links. Make sure

they will fit your drive tires. Check the chains for broken

hooks, worn or broken cross-links, and bent or broken side

chains. Learn how to put the chains on before you need to

do it in snow and ice.

Lights and Reflectors

Make sure the lights and reflectors are clean. Lights and

reflectors are especially important during bad weather.

Check from time to time during bad weather to make sure

they are clean and working properly.

Windows and Mirrors

Remove any ice, snow, etc., from the windshield, windows,

and mirrors before starting. Use a windshield scraper,

snow brush, and windshield defroster as necessary.

Hand Holds, Steps, and Deck Plates

Remove all ice and snow from hand holds, steps, and

deck plates. This will reduce the danger of slipping.

Radiator Shutters and Winterfront

Remove ice from the radiator shutters. Make sure the

winterfront is not closed too tightly. If the shutters freeze

shut or the winterfront is closed too much, the engine may

overheat and stop.

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Exhaust System

Exhaust system leaks are especially dangerous when cab

ventilation may be poor (windows rolled up, etc.). Loose

connections could permit poisonous carbon monoxide to

leak into your vehicle. Carbon monoxide gas will cause

you to be sleepy. In large enough amounts it can kill you.

Check the exhaust system for loose parts and for sounds

and signs of leaks.

2.13.2 – Driving

Slippery Surfaces

Drive slowly and smoothly on slippery roads. If it is very

slippery, you shouldn't drive at all. Stop at the first safe

place.

Start Gently and Slowly

When first starting, get the feel of the road. Don't hurry.

Check for Ice

Check for ice on the road, especially bridges and

overpasses. A lack of spray from other vehicles indicates

ice has formed on the road. Also, check your mirrors and

wiper blades for ice. If they have ice, the road most likely

will be icy as well.

Adjust Turning and Braking to Conditions

Make turns as gently as possible. Don't brake any harder

than necessary, and don't use the engine brake or speed

retarder. (They can cause the driving wheels to skid on

slippery surfaces.)

Adjust Speed to Conditions

Don't pass slower vehicles unless necessary. Go slowly

and watch far enough ahead to keep a steady speed.

Avoid having to slow down and speed up. Take curves at

slower speeds and don't brake while in curves. Be aware

that as the temperature rises to the point where ice begins

to melt, the road becomes even more slippery. Slow down

more.

Adjust Space to Conditions

Don't drive alongside other vehicles. Keep a longer

following distance. When you see a traffic jam ahead, slow

down or stop to wait for it to clear. Try hard to anticipate

stops early and slow down gradually. Watch for

snowplows, as well as salt and sand trucks, and give them

plenty of room.

Wet Brakes

When driving in heavy rain or deep standing water, your

brakes will get wet. Water in the brakes can cause the

brakes to be weak, to apply unevenly, or to grab. This can

cause lack of braking power, wheel lockups, pulling to one

side or the other, and jackknife if you pull a trailer.

Avoid driving through deep puddles or flowing water if

possible. If not, you should:

✓ Slow down and place transmission in a low gear.

✓ Gently put on the brakes. This presses linings against

brake drums or discs and keeps mud, silt, sand, and

water from getting in.

✓ Increase engine rpm and cross the water while

keeping light pressure on the brakes.

✓ When out of the water, maintain light pressure on the

brakes for a short distance to heat them up and dry

them out.

✓ Make a test stop when safe to do so. Check behind to

make sure no one is following, then apply the brakes

to be sure they work well. If not, dry them out further

as described above. (CAUTION: Do not apply too

much brake pressure and accelerator at the same

time, or you can overheat brake drums and linings.

2.14 – Driving in Very Hot Weather

2.14.1 – Vehicle Checks

Do a normal vehicle inspection but pay special attention to

the following items.

Tires

Check the tire mounting and air pressure. Inspect the tires

every two hours or every 100 miles when driving in very

hot weather. Air pressure increases with temperature. Do

not let air out or the pressure will be too low when the tires

cool off. If a tire is too hot to touch, remain stopped until

the tire cools off. Otherwise the tire may blow out or catch

fire.

Engine Oil

The engine oil helps keep the engine cool, as well as

lubricating it. Make sure there is enough engine oil. If you

have an oil temperature gauge, make sure the

temperature is within the proper range while you are

driving.

Engine Coolant

Before starting out, make sure the engine cooling system

has enough water and antifreeze according to the engine

manufacturer's directions. (Antifreeze helps the engine

under hot conditions as well as cold conditions.) When

driving, check the water temperature or coolant

temperature gauge from time to time. Make sure that it

remains in the normal range. If the gauge goes above the

highest safe temperature, there may be something wrong

that could lead to engine failure and possibly fire. Stop

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48 Section 2 – Driving Safely

driving as soon as safely possible and try to find out what

is wrong.

Some vehicles have sight glasses, see-through coolant

overflow containers, or coolant recovery containers. These

permit you to check the coolant level while the engine is

hot. If the container is not part of the pressurized system,

the cap can be safely removed and coolant added, even

when the engine is at operating temperature.

Never remove the radiator cap or any part of the

pressurized system until the system has cooled. Steam

and boiling water can spray under pressure and cause

severe burns. If you can touch the radiator cap with your

bare hand, it is probably cool enough to open.

If coolant has to be added to a system without a recovery

tank or overflow tank, follow these steps:

✓ Shut engine off.

✓ Wait until engine has cooled.

✓ Protect hands (use gloves or a thick cloth).

✓ Turn radiator cap slowly to the first stop, which

releases the pressure seal.

✓ Step back while pressure is released from cooling

system.

✓ When all pressure has been released, press down on

the cap and turn it further to remove it.

✓ Visually check level of coolant and add more coolant if

necessary.

✓ Replace cap and turn all the way to the closed

position.

Engine Belts

Learn how to check v-belt tightness on your vehicle by

pressing on the belts. Loose belts will not turn the water

pump and/or fan properly. This will result in overheating.

Also, check belts for cracking or other signs of wear.

Hoses. Make sure coolant hoses are in good condition. A

broken hose while driving can lead to engine failure and

even fire.

2.14.2 – Driving

Watch for Bleeding Tar

Tar in the road pavement frequently rises to the surface in

very hot weather. Spots where tar "bleeds" to the surface

are very slippery.

Go Slowly Enough to Prevent Overheating

High speeds create more heat for tires and the engine. In

desert conditions the heat may build up to the point where

it is dangerous. The heat will increase chances of tire

failure or even fire, and engine failure.

Subsections 2.11, 2.12, 2.13, and 2.14

Test Your Knowledge

1. You should use low beams whenever you can. True

or False?

2. What should you do before you drive if you are

drowsy?

3. What effects can wet brakes cause? How can you

avoid these problems?

4. You should let air out of hot tires so the pressure

goes back to normal. True or False?

5. You can safely remove the radiator cap as long as

the engine isn't overheated. True or False?

These questions may be on the test. If you can’t answer all

of them, re-read subsections 2.11, 2.12, 2.13, and 2.14.

2.15 – Railroad-highway Crossings

Railroad-highway grade crossings are a special kind of

intersection where the roadway crosses train tracks. These

crossings are always dangerous. Every such crossing

must be approached with the expectation that a train is

coming. It is extremely difficult to judge the distance of the

train from the crossing as well as the speed of an

approaching train.

2.15.1 – Types of Crossings

Passive Crossings

This type of crossing does not have any type of traffic

control device. The decision to stop or proceed rests

entirely in your hands. Passive crossings require you to

recognize the crossing, search for any train using the

tracks and decide if there is sufficient clear space to cross

safely.

Active Crossings

This type of crossing has a traffic control device installed

at the crossing to regulate traffic at the crossing. These

active devices include flashing red lights, with or without

bells and flashing red lights with bells and gates.

2.15.2 – Warning Signs and Devices

Advance Warning Signs

The round, black-on-yellow warning sign is placed ahead

of a public railroad-highway crossing. The advance

warning sign tells you to slow down, look and listen for the

train, and be prepared to stop at the tracks if a train is

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coming. All passenger and hazmat carrying vehicles are

required to stop. See Figure 2.15.

Figure 2.15

Pavement Markings

Pavement markings mean the same as the advance

warning sign. They consist of an “X” with the letters ”RR”

and a no-passing marking on two-lane roads. See Figure

2.16.

Figure 2.16

There is also a no passing zone sign on two-lane roads.

There may be a white stop line painted on the pavement

before the railroad tracks. The front of the school bus must

remain behind this line while stopped at the crossing.

Cross-buck Signs

This sign marks the grade crossing. It requires you to yield

the right-of-way to the train. If there is no white stop line

painted on the pavement, vehicles that are required to stop

must stop no closer than 15 feet or more than 50 feet from

the nearest rail of the nearest track. When the road

crosses over more than one track, a sign below the cross-

buck indicates the number of tracks. See Figure 2.17.

Figure2.17

Flashing Red Light Signals

At many highway-rail grade crossings, the cross-buck sign

has flashing red lights and bells. When the lights begin to

flash, stop! A train is approaching. You are required to

yield the right-of-way to the train. If there is more than one

track, make sure all tracks are clear before crossing. See

Figure 2.18.

Gates

Many railroad-highway crossings have gates with flashing

red lights and bells. Stop when the lights begin to flash and

before the gate lowers across the road lane. Remain

stopped until the gates go up and the lights have stopped

flashing. Proceed when it is safe. See Figure 2.18.

Figure 2.18

2.15.3 – Driving Procedures

Never Race a Train to a Crossing

Never attempt to race a train to a crossing. It is extremely

difficult to judge the speed of an approaching train.

Reduce Speed

Speed must be reduced in accordance with your ability to

see approaching trains in any direction, and speed must

be held to a point which will permit you to stop short of the

tracks in case a stop is necessary.

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50 Section 2 – Driving Safely

Don't Expect to Hear a Train

Trains may not or are prohibited from sounding horns

when approaching some crossings. Public crossings

where trains do not sound horns should be identified by

signs. Noise inside your vehicle may, also prevent you

from hearing the train horn until the train is dangerously

close to the crossing.

Don't Rely on Signals

You should not rely solely upon the presence of warning

signals, gates, or flagmen to warn of the approach of

trains. Be especially alert at crossings that do not have

gates or flashing red light signals.

Double Tracks Require a Double Check

Remember that a train on one track may hide a train on

the other track. Look both ways before crossing. After one

train has cleared a crossing, be sure no other trains are

near before starting across the tracks.

Yard Areas and Grade Crossings in Cities

and Towns

Yard areas and grade crossings in cities and towns are

just as dangerous as rural grade crossings. Approach

them with as much caution.

2.15.4 – Stopping Safely at Railroad- highway

Crossings

A full stop is required at grade crossings whenever:

✓ The nature of the cargo makes a stop mandatory

under state or federal regulations.

✓ Such a stop is otherwise required by law.

When stopping be sure to:

✓ Check for traffic behind you while stopping gradually.

Use a pullout lane, if available.

✓ Turn on your four-way emergency flashers.

2.15.5 – Crossing the Tracks

Railroad crossings with steep approaches can cause your

unit to hang up on the tracks. Never permit traffic

conditions to trap you in a position where you have to stop

on the tracks. Be sure you can get all the way across the

tracks before you start across. It takes a typical tractor-

trailer unit at least 14 seconds to clear a single track and

more than 15 seconds to clear a double track.

Do not shift gears while crossing railroad tracks.

2.15.6 – Special Situations

Be Aware! These trailers can get stuck on raised

crossings:

✓ Low slung units (lowboy, car carrier, moving van,

possum-belly livestock trailer).

✓ Single-axle tractor pulling a long trailer with its landing

gear set to accommodate a tandem-axle tractor.

If for any reason you get stuck on the tracks, get out of the

vehicle and away from the tracks. Check signposts or

signal housing at the crossing for emergency notification

information. Call 911 or other emergency number. Give the

location of the crossing using all identifiable landmarks,

especially the DOT number, if posted.

2.16 – Mountain Driving

In mountain driving, gravity plays a major role. On any

upgrade, gravity slows you down. The steeper the grade,

the longer the grade, and/or the heavier the load--the more

you will have to use lower gears to climb hills or

mountains.

In coming down long, steep downgrades, gravity causes

the speed of your vehicle to increase. You must select an

appropriate safe speed, then use a low gear, and proper

braking techniques. You should plan ahead and obtain

information about any long, steep grades along your

planned route of travel. If possible, talk to other drivers

who are familiar with the grades to find out what speeds

are safe.

You must go slowly enough so your brakes can hold you

back without getting too hot. If the brakes become too hot,

they may start to "fade." This means you have to apply

them harder and harder to get the same stopping power. If

you continue to use the brakes hard, they can keep fading

until you cannot slow down or stop at all.

2.16.1 – Select a "Safe" Speed

Your most important consideration is to select a speed that

is not too fast for the:

✓ Total weight of the vehicle and cargo.

✓ Length of the grade.

✓ Steepness of the grade.

✓ Road conditions.

✓ Weather.

If a speed limit is posted, or there is a sign indicating

"Maximum Safe Speed," never exceed the speed shown.

Also, look for and heed warning signs indicating the length

and steepness of the grade.

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You must use the braking effect of the engine as the

principal way of controlling your speed. The braking effect

of the engine is greatest when it is near the governed rpms

and the transmission is in the lower gears. Save your

brakes so you will be able to slow or stop as required by

road and traffic conditions.

2.16.2 – Select the Right Gear Before Starting

Down the Grade

Shift the transmission to a low gear before starting down

the grade. Do not try to downshift after your speed has

already built up. You will not be able to shift into a lower

gear. You may not even be able to get back into any gear

and all engine braking effect will be lost. Forcing an

automatic transmission into a lower gear at high speed

could damage the transmission and also lead to loss of all

engine braking effect.

With older trucks, a rule for choosing gears is to use the

same gear going down a hill that you would need to climb

the hill. However, new trucks have low friction parts and

streamlined shapes for fuel economy. They may also have

more powerful engines. This means they can go up hills in

higher gears and have less friction and air drag to hold

them back going down hills. For that reason, drivers of

modern trucks may have to use lower gears going down a

hill than would be required to go up the hill. You should

know what is right for your vehicle.

2.16.3 – Brake Fading or Failure

Brakes are designed so brake shoes or pads rub against

the brake drum or disks to slow the vehicle. Braking

creates heat, but brakes are designed to take a lot of heat.

However, brakes can fade or fail from excessive heat

caused by using them too much and not relying on the

engine braking effect.

Brake fade is also affected by adjustment. To safely

control a vehicle, every brake must do its share of the

work. Brakes out of adjustment will stop doing their share

before those that are in adjustment. The other brakes can

then overheat and fade, and there will not be enough

braking available to control the vehicle. Brakes can get out

of adjustment quickly, especially when they are used a lot;

also, brake linings wear faster when they are hot.

Therefore, brake adjustment must be checked frequently.

2.16.4 – Proper Braking Technique

Remember:

The use of brakes on a long and/or steep downgrade is

only a supplement to the braking effect of the engine.

Once the vehicle is in the proper low gear, the following

are the proper braking techniques:

1. Apply the brakes just hard enough to feel a definite

slowdown.

2. When your speed has been reduced to approximately

five mph below your "safe" speed, release the brakes.

(This brake application should last for about three

seconds.)

3. When your speed has increased to your "safe" speed,

repeat steps 1 and 2.

For example, if your "safe" speed is 40 mph, you would not

apply the brakes until your speed reaches 40 mph. You

now apply the brakes hard enough to gradually reduce

your speed to 35 mph and then release the brakes.

Repeat this as often as necessary until you have reached

the end of the downgrade.

Escape ramps have been built on many steep mountain

downgrades. Escape ramps are made to stop runaway

vehicles safely without injuring drivers and passengers.

Escape ramps use a long bed of loose, soft material to

slow a runaway vehicle, sometimes in combination with an

upgrade. Know escape ramp locations on your route.

Signs show drivers where ramp are located. Escape

ramps save lives, equipment and cargo.

Subsections 2.15 and 2.16

Test Your Knowledge

1. What factors determine your selection of a "safe"

speed when going down a long, steep downgrade?

2. Why should you be in the proper gear before starting

down a hill?

3. Describe the proper braking technique when going

down a long, steep downgrade.

4. What type of vehicles can get stuck on a railroad-

highway crossing?

5. How long does it take for a typical tractor-trailer unit to

clear a double track?

These questions may be on the test. If you can’t answer

them all, re-read subsections 2.15 and 2.16.

2.17 – Driving Emergencies

Traffic emergencies occur when two vehicles are about to

collide. Vehicle emergencies occur when tires, brakes, or

other critical parts fail. Following the safety practices in this

manual can help prevent emergencies. But if an

emergency does happen, your chances of avoiding a

crash depend upon how well you take action. Actions you

can take are discussed below.

2.17.1 – Steering to Avoid a Crash

Stopping is not always the safest thing to do in an

emergency. When you don't have enough room to stop,

you may have to steer away from what's ahead.

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52 Section 2 – Driving Safely

Remember, you can almost always turn to miss an

obstacle more quickly than you can stop. (However, top-

heavy vehicles and tractors with multiple trailers may flip

over.)

Keep Both Hands on the Steering Wheel

In order to turn quickly, you must have a firm grip on the

steering wheel with both hands. The best way to have both

hands on the wheel, if there is an emergency, is to keep

them there all the time.

How to Turn Quickly and Safely

A quick turn can be made safely, if it's done the right way.

Here are some points that safe drivers use:

✓ Do not apply the brake while you are turning. It's very

easy to lock your wheels while turning. If that happens,

you may skid out of control.

✓ Do not turn any more than needed to clear whatever is

in your way. The more sharply you turn, the greater

the chances of a skid or rollover.

✓ Be prepared to "counter-steer," that is, to turn the

wheel back in the other direction, once you've passed

whatever was in your path. Unless you are prepared to

counter-steer, you won't be able to do it quickly

enough. You should think of emergency steering and

counter-steering as two parts of one driving action.

Where to Steer

If an oncoming driver has drifted into your lane, a move to

your right is best. If that driver realizes what has

happened, the natural response will be to return to his or

her own lane.

If something is blocking your path, the best direction to

steer will depend on the situation.

✓ If you have been using your mirrors, you'll know

which lane is empty and can be safely used.

✓ If the shoulder is clear, going right may be best. No

one is likely to be driving on the shoulder, but

someone may be passing you on the left. You will

know if you have been using your mirrors.

✓ If you are blocked on both sides, a move to the right

may be best. At least you won't force anyone into an

opposing traffic lane and a possible head-on collision.

Leaving the Road

In some emergencies, you may have to drive off the road.

It may be less risky than facing a collision with another

vehicle.

Most shoulders are strong enough to support the weight of

a large vehicle and, therefore, offer an available escape

route. Here are some guidelines, if you do leave the road.

Avoid Braking

If possible, avoid using the brakes until your speed has

dropped to about 20 mph. Then brake very gently to avoid

skidding on a loose surface.

Keep One Set of Wheels on the Pavement, if

Possible

This helps to maintain control.

Stay on the Shoulder

If the shoulder is clear, stay on it until your vehicle has

come to a stop. Signal and check your mirrors before

pulling back onto the road.

Returning to the Road

If you are forced to return to the road before you can stop,

use the following procedure:

✓ Hold the wheel tightly and turn sharply enough to get

right back on the road safely. Don't try to edge

gradually back on the road. If you do, your tires might

grab unexpectedly, and you could lose control.

✓ When both front tires are on the paved surface,

counter-steer immediately. The two turns should be

made as a single "steer-counter-steer" move.

2.17.2 – How to Stop Quickly and Safely

If somebody suddenly pulls out in front of you, your natural

response is to hit the brakes. This is a good response if

there's enough distance to stop, and you use the brakes

correctly.

You should brake in a way that will keep your vehicle in a

straight line and allow you to turn if it becomes necessary.

You can use the "controlled braking" method or the "stab

braking" method.

Controlled Braking

With this method, you apply the brakes as hard as you can

without locking the wheels. Keep steering wheel

movements very small while doing this. If you need to

make a larger steering adjustment or if the wheels lock,

release the brakes. Re-apply the brakes as soon as you

can.

Stab Braking

With this method, you apply your brakes all the way and

release brakes when wheels lock up. As soon as the

wheels start rolling, apply the brakes fully again. (It can

take up to one second for the wheels to start rolling after

you release the brakes. If you re-apply the brakes before

the wheels start rolling, the vehicle won't straighten out.)

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Don't Jam on the Brakes

Emergency braking does not mean pushing down on the

brake pedal as hard as you can. That will only keep the

wheels locked up and cause a skid. If the wheels are

skidding, you cannot control the vehicle.

2.17.3 – Brake Failure

Brakes kept in good condition rarely fail. Most hydraulic

brake failures occur for one of two reasons: (Air brakes are

discussed in Section 5.)

✓ Loss of hydraulic pressure.

✓ Brake fade on long hills.

Loss of Hydraulic Pressure

When the system won't build up pressure, the brake pedal

will feel spongy or go to the floor. Here are some things

you can do.

Downshift

Putting the vehicle into a lower gear will help to slow the

vehicle.

Pump the Brakes

Sometimes pumping the brake pedal will generate enough

hydraulic pressure to stop the vehicle.

Use the Parking Brake.

The parking or emergency brake is separate from the

hydraulic brake system. Therefore, it can be used to slow

the vehicle. However, be sure to press the release button

or pull the release lever at the same time you use the

emergency brake so you can adjust the brake pressure

and keep the wheels from locking up.

Find an Escape Route

While slowing the vehicle, look for an escape route--an

open field, side-street, or escape ramp. Turning uphill is a

good way to slow and stop the vehicle. Make sure the

vehicle does not start rolling backward after you stop. Put

it in low gear, apply the parking brake, and, if necessary,

roll back into some obstacle that will stop the vehicle.

Brake Failure on Downgrades

Going slow enough and braking properly will almost

always prevent brake failure on long downgrades. Once

the brakes have failed, however, you are going to have to

look outside your vehicle for something to stop it.

Your best hope is an escape ramp. If there is one, there'll

be signs telling you about it. Use it. Ramps are usually

located a few miles from the top of the downgrade. Every

year, hundreds of drivers avoid injury to themselves or

damage to their vehicles by using escape ramps. Some

escape ramps use soft gravel that resists the motion of the

vehicle and brings it to a stop. Others turn uphill, using the

hill to stop the vehicle and soft gravel to hold it in place.

Any driver who loses brakes going downhill should use an

escape ramp if it's available. If you don't use it, your

chances of having a serious crash may be much greater.

If no escape ramp is available, take the least hazardous

escape route you can--such as an open field or a side road

that flattens out or turns uphill. Make the move as soon as

you know your brakes don't work. The longer you wait, the

faster the vehicle will go, and the harder it will be to stop.

2.17.4 – Tire Failure

Recognize Tire Failure

Quickly knowing you have a tire failure will let you have

more time to react. Having just a few extra seconds to

remember what it is you're supposed to do can help you.

The major signs of tire failure are:

✓ Sound. The loud "bang" of a blowout is an easily

recognized sign. Because it can take a few seconds

for your vehicle to react, you might think it was some

other vehicle. But any time you hear a tire blow, you'd

be safest to assume it is yours.

✓ Vibration. If the vehicle thumps or vibrates heavily, it

may be a sign that one of the tires has gone flat. With

a rear tire, that may be the only sign you get.

✓ Feel. If the steering feels "heavy," it is probably a sign

that one of the front tires has failed. Sometimes, failure

of a rear tire will cause the vehicle to slide back and

forth or "fishtail." However, dual rear tires usually

prevent this.

Respond to Tire Failure

When a tire fails, your vehicle is in danger. You must

immediately:

✓ Hold the Steering Wheel Firmly. If a front tire fails, it

can twist the steering wheel out of your hand. The only

way to prevent this is to keep a firm grip on the

steering wheel with both hands at all times.

✓ Stay off the Brake. It's natural to want to brake in an

emergency. However, braking when a tire has failed

could cause loss of control. Unless you're about to run

into something, stay off the brake until the vehicle has

slowed down. Then brake very gently, pull off the road,

and stop.

✓ Check the Tires. After you've come to a stop, get out

and check all the tires. Do this even if the vehicle

seems to be handling all right. If one of your dual tires

goes, the only way you may know it is by getting out

and looking at it.

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2.18 – Antilock Braking Systems (ABS)

ABS is a computerized system that keeps your wheels

from locking up during hard brake applications.

ABS is an addition to your normal brakes. It does not

decrease or increase your normal braking capability. ABS

only activates when wheels are about to lock up.

ABS does not necessarily shorten your stopping distance,

but it does help you keep the vehicle under control during

hard braking.

2.18.1 – How Antilock Braking Systems Work

Sensors detect potential wheel lock up. An electronic

control unit (ECU) will then decrease brake pressure to

avoid wheel lockup. Brake pressure is adjusted to provide

the maximum braking without danger of lockup.

ABS works far faster than the driver can respond to

potential wheel lockup. At all other times the brake system

will operate normally.

2.18.2 – Vehicles Required to Have Antilock

Braking Systems

The Department of Transportation requires that ABS be

on:

✓ Truck tractors with air brakes built on or after March 1,

1997.

✓ Other air brake vehicles, (trucks, buses, trailers, and

converter dollies) built on or after March 1, 1998.

✓ Hydraulically braked trucks and buses with a gross

vehicle weight rating of 10,000 lbs or more built on or

after March 1, 1999.

Many commercial vehicles built before these dates have

been voluntarily equipped with ABS.

2.18.3 – How to Know if Your Vehicle is

Equipped with ABS

Tractors, trucks, and buses will have yellow ABS

malfunction lamps on the instrument panel.

Trailers will have yellow ABS malfunction lamps on the left

side, either on the front or rear corner.

Dollies manufactured on or after March 1, 1998, are

required to have a lamp on the left side.

As a system check on newer vehicles, the malfunction

lamp comes on at start-up for a bulb check, and then goes

out quickly. On older systems, the lamp could stay on until

you are driving over five mph.

If the lamp stays on after the bulb check, or goes on once

you are under way, you may have lost ABS control.

In the case of towed units manufactured before it was

required by the Department of Transportation, it may be

difficult to tell if the unit is equipped with ABS. Look under

the vehicle for the ECU and wheel speed sensor wires

coming from the back of the brakes.

2.18.4 – How ABS Helps You

When you brake hard on slippery surfaces in a vehicle

without ABS, your wheels may lock up. When your

steering wheels lock up, you lose steering control. When

your other wheels lock up, you may skid, jackknife, or even

spin the vehicle.

ABS helps you avoid wheel lock up and maintain control.

You may or may not be able to stop faster with ABS, but

you should be able to steer around an obstacle while

braking, and avoid skids caused by over braking.

2.18.5 – ABS on the Tractor Only or Only on

the Trailer

Having ABS on only the tractor, only the trailer, or even on

only one axle, still gives you more control over the vehicle

during braking. Brake normally.

When only the tractor has ABS, you should be able to

maintain steering control, and there is less chance of

jackknifing. But keep your eye on the trailer and let up on

the brakes (if you can safely do so) if it begins to swing

out.

When only the trailer has ABS, the trailer is less likely to

swing out, but if you lose steering control or start a tractor

jackknife, let up on the brakes (if you can safely do so)

until you regain control.

2.18.6 – Braking with ABS

When you drive a vehicle with ABS, you should brake as

you always have. In other words:

✓ Use only the braking force necessary to stop safely

and stay in control.

✓ Brake the same way, regardless of whether you have

ABS on the bus, tractor, the trailer, or both.

✓ As you slow down, monitor your tractor and trailer and

back off the brakes (if it is safe to do so) to stay in

control.

There is only one exception to this procedure. If you drive

a straight truck or combination with working ABS on all

axles, in an emergency stop, you can fully apply the

brakes.

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Section 2 – Driving Safely 55

2.18.7 – Braking if ABS is Not Working

Without ABS you still have normal brake functions. Drive

and brake as you always have.

Vehicles with ABS have yellow malfunction lamps to tell

you if something isn’t working.

As a system check on newer vehicles, the malfunction

lamp comes on at start-up for a bulb check and then goes

out quickly. On older systems, the lamp could stay on until

you are driving over five mph.

If the lamp stays on after the bulb check, or goes on once

you are under way, you may have lost ABS control on one

or more wheels.

Remember, if your ABS malfunctions, you still have

regular brakes. Drive normally, but get the system serviced

soon.

2.18.8 – Safety Reminders

✓ ABS won’t allow you to drive faster, follow more

closely, or drive less carefully.

✓ ABS won’t prevent power or turning skids–ABS should

prevent brake-induced skids or jackknifes, but not

those caused by spinning the drive wheels or going

too fast in a turn.

✓ ABS won’t necessarily shorten stopping distance. ABS

will help maintain vehicle control, but not always

shorten stopping distance.

✓ ABS won’t increase or decrease ultimate stopping

power–ABS is an “add-on” to your normal brakes, not

a replacement for them.

✓ ABS won’t change the way you normally brake. Under

normal brake conditions, your vehicle will stop as it

always stopped. ABS only comes into play when a

wheel would normally have locked up because of over

braking.

✓ ABS won’t compensate for bad brakes or poor brake

maintenance.

✓ Remember: The best vehicle safety feature is still a

safe driver.

✓ Remember: Drive so you never need to use your ABS.

✓ Remember: If you need it, ABS could help to prevent a

serious crash.

2.19 – Skid Control and Recovery

A skid happens whenever the tires lose their grip on the

road. This is caused in one of four ways:

✓ Over-braking. Braking too hard and locking up the

wheels. Skids also can occur when using the speed

retarder when the road is slippery.

✓ Over-steering. Turning the wheels more sharply than

the vehicle can turn.

✓ Over-acceleration. Supplying too much power to the

drive wheels, causing them to spin.

✓ Driving Too Fast. Most serious skids result from

driving too fast for road conditions. Drivers who adjust

their driving to conditions don't over-accelerate and

don't have to over-brake or over-steer from too much

speed.

2.19.1 – Drive-wheel Skids

By far the most common skid is one in which the rear

wheels lose traction through excessive braking or

acceleration. Skids caused by acceleration usually happen

on ice or snow. Taking your foot off the accelerator can

easily stop them. (If it is very slippery, push the clutch in.

Otherwise, the engine can keep the wheels from rolling

freely and regaining traction.)

Rear wheel braking skids occur when the rear drive

wheels lock. Because locked wheels have less traction

than rolling wheels, the rear wheels usually slide sideways

in an attempt to "catch up" with the front wheels. In a bus

or straight truck, the vehicle will slide sideways in a "spin

out." With vehicles towing trailers, a drive-wheel skid can

let the trailer push the towing vehicle sideways, causing a

sudden jackknife. See Figure 2.19.

2.19.2 – Correcting a Drive-wheel Braking

Skid

Do the following to correct a drive-wheel braking skid:

✓ Stop Braking. This will let the rear wheels roll again

and keep the rear wheels from sliding.

✓ Counter-steer. As a vehicle turns back on course, it

has a tendency to keep on turning. Unless you turn the

steering wheel quickly the other way, you may find

yourself skidding in the opposite direction.

Learning to stay off the brake, turn the steering wheel

quickly, push in the clutch, and counter-steer in a skid

takes a lot of practice. The best place to get this practice is

on a large driving range or "skid pad."

2.19.3 – Front-wheel Skids

Driving too fast for conditions causes most front-wheel

skids. Other causes include lack of tread on the front tires

and cargo loaded so not enough weight is on the front

axle. In a front-wheel skid, the front end tends to go in a

straight line regardless of how much you turn the steering

wheel. On a very slippery surface, you may not be able to

steer around a curve or turn.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

56 Section 2 – Driving Safely

When a front-wheel skid occurs, the only way to stop the

skid is to let the vehicle slow down. Stop turning and/or

braking so hard. Slow down as quickly as possible without

skidding.

Figure 2.19

Subsections 2.17, 2.18, and 2.19

Test Your Knowledge

1. Stopping is not always the safest thing to do in an

emergency. True or False?

2. What are some advantages of going right instead of

left around an obstacle?

3. What is an "escape ramp?"

4. If a tire blows out, you should put the brakes on hard

to stop quickly. True or False?

5. How do you know if your vehicle has antilock

brakes?

6. What is the proper braking technique when driving a

vehicle with antilock brakes?

7. How do antilock brakes help you?

These questions may be on the test. If you can’t answer

them all, re-read subsections 2.17, 2.18, and 2.19.

2.20 – Accident Procedures

When you're in an accident and not seriously hurt, you

need to act to prevent further damage or injury. The basic

steps to be taken at any accident are to:

✓ Protect the area.

✓ Notify authorities.

✓ Care for the injured.

2.20.1 – Protect the Area

The first thing to do at an accident scene is to keep

another accident from happening in the same spot. To

protect the accident area:

✓ If your vehicle is involved in the accident, try to get it to

the side of the road. This will help prevent another

accident and allow traffic to move.

✓ If you're stopping to help, park away from the accident.

The area immediately around the accident will be

needed for emergency vehicles.

✓ Put on your flashers.

✓ Set out reflective triangles to warn other traffic. Make

sure other drivers can see them in time to avoid the

accident.

2.20.2 – Notify Authorities

If you have a cell phone or CB, call for assistance before

you get out of your vehicle. If not, wait until after the

accident scene has been properly protected, then phone

or send someone to phone the police. Try to determine

where you are so you can give the exact location.

2.20.3 – Care for the Injured

If a qualified person is at the accident and helping the

injured, stay out of the way unless asked to assist.

Otherwise, do the best you can to help any injured parties.

Here are some simple steps to follow in giving assistance:

✓ Don't move a severely injured person unless the

danger of fire or passing traffic makes it necessary.

✓ Stop heavy bleeding by applying direct pressure to the

wound.

✓ Keep the injured person warm.

2.21 – Fires

Truck fires can cause damage and injury. Learn the

causes of fires and how to prevent them. Know what to do

to extinguish fires.

2.21.1 – Causes of Fire

The following are some causes of vehicle fires:

✓ After Accidents. Spilled fuel, improper use of flares.

✓ Tires. Under-inflated tires and duals that touch.

✓ Electrical System. Short circuits due to damaged

insulation, loose connections.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 2 – Driving Safely 57

✓ Fuel. Driver smoking, improper fueling, loose fuel

connections.

✓ Cargo. Flammable cargo improperly sealed or loaded

cargo, poor ventilation.

2.21.2 – Fire Prevention

Pay attention to the following:

✓ Vehicle Inspection. Make a complete inspection of the

electrical, fuel, and exhaust systems, tires, and cargo.

Be sure to check that the fire extinguisher is charged.

✓ En Route Inspection. Check the tires, wheels, and

truck body for signs of heat whenever you stop during

a trip.

✓ Follow Safe Procedures. Follow correct safety

procedures for fueling the vehicle, using brakes,

handling flares, and other activities that can cause a

fire.

✓ Monitoring. Check the instruments and gauges often

for signs of overheating and use the mirrors to look for

signs of smoke from tires or the vehicle.

✓ Caution. Use normal caution in handling anything

flammable.

2.21.3 – Fire Fighting

Knowing how to fight fires is important. Drivers who didn’t

know what to do have made fires worse. Know how the fire

extinguisher works. Study the instructions printed on the

extinguisher before you need it. Here are some

procedures to follow in case of fire.

Pull Off the Road

The first step is to get the vehicle off the road and stop. In

doing so:

✓ Park in an open area, away from buildings, trees,

brush, other vehicles, or anything that might catch fire.

✓ Don't pull into a service station!

✓ Notify emergency services of your problem and your

location.

Keep the Fire from Spreading

Before trying to put out the fire, make sure that it doesn't

spread any further.

✓ With an engine fire, turn off the engine as soon as you

can. Don't open the hood if you can avoid it. Shoot

foam through louvers, radiator, or from the vehicle’s

underside.

✓ For a cargo fire in a van or box trailer, keep the doors

shut, especially if your cargo contains hazardous

materials. Opening the van doors will supply the fire

with oxygen and can cause it to burn very fast.

Extinguish the Fire

Here are some rules to follow in putting out a fire:

✓ When using the extinguisher, stay as far away from

the fire as possible.

✓ Aim at the source or base of the fire, not up in the

flames.

Use the Right Fire Extinguisher

Figures 2.20 and 2.21 detail the type of fire extinguisher to

use by class of fire.

✓ The B:C type fire extinguisher is designed to work on

electrical fires and burning liquids.

✓ The A:B:C type is designed to work on burning wood,

paper, and cloth as well.

✓ Water can be used on wood, paper, or cloth, but don't

use water on an electrical fire (can cause shock) or a

gasoline fire (it will spread the flames).

✓ A burning tire must be cooled. Lots of water may be

required.

✓ If you're not sure what to use, especially on a

hazardous materials fire, wait for firefighters.

✓ Position yourself upwind. Let the wind carry the

extinguisher to the fire.

✓ Continue until whatever was burning has been cooled.

Absence of smoke or flame does not mean the fire

cannot restart.

Class/Type of Fires

Class

Type

Wood, Paper, Ordinary Combustibles

Extinguish by Cooling and Quenching Using

Water or Dry Chemicals

Gasoline, Oil, Grease, Other Greasy Liquids

Extinguish by Smothering, Cooling or Heat

Shielding using carbon Dioxide or Dry

Chemicals

Electrical Equipment Fires

Extinguish with Non-conducting Agents such

as Carbon Dioxide or Dry Chemicals.

DO NOT USE WATER.

Fires in Combustible Metals

Extinguish by Using Specialized Extinguishing

Powders

Figure 2.20

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58 Section 2 – Driving Safely

Class of Fire/Type of Extinguisher

Class of Fire

Fire Extinguisher Type

B or C

Regular Dry Chemical

A, B, C, or D

Multi-Purpose Dry Chemical

Purple K Dry Chemical

B or C

KCL Dry Chemical

Dry Powder Special Compound

B or C

Carbon Dioxide (Dry)

B or C

Halogenated Agent (Gas)

Water

Water With Anti-Freeze

A or B

Water, Loaded Steam Style

B, On Some A

Foam

Figure 2.21

Subsections 2.20 and 2.21

Test Your Knowledge

1. What are some things to do at an accident scene to

prevent another accident?

2. Name two causes of tire fires.

3. What kinds of fires is a B:C extinguisher not good for?

4. When using your extinguisher, should you get as

close as possible to the fire?

5. Name some causes of vehicle fires.

These questions may be on the test. If you can't answer

them all, re-read subsections 2.20 and 2.21.

2.22 – Alcohol, Other Drugs, and Driving

2.22.1 – Alcohol and Driving

Drinking alcohol and then driving is very dangerous and a

serious problem. People who drink alcohol are involved in

traffic accidents resulting in over 20,000 deaths every

year. Alcohol impairs muscle coordination, reaction time,

depth perception, and night vision. It also affects the parts

of the brain that control judgment and inhibition. For some

people, one drink is all it takes to show signs of

impairment.

How Alcohol Works

Alcohol goes directly into the blood stream and is carried

to the brain. After passing through the brain, a small

percentage is removed in urine, perspiration, and by

breathing, while the rest is carried to the liver. The liver

can only process one-third an ounce of alcohol per hour,

which is considerably less than the alcohol in a standard

drink. This is a fixed rate, so only time, not black coffee or

a cold shower, will sober you up. If you have drinks faster

than your body can get rid of them, you will have more

alcohol in your body, and your driving will be more

affected. The Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC)

commonly measures the amount of alcohol in your body.

See Figure 2.22.

All of the following drinks contain the same amount of

alcohol:

✓ A 12-ounce glass of 5% beer.

✓ A 5-ounce glass of 12% wine.

✓ A 1 1/2-ounce shot of 80 proof liquor.

Figure 2.22

What Is a Drink?

It is the alcohol in drinks that affects human performance. It

doesn't make any difference whether that alcohol comes

from "a couple of beers,” or from two glasses of wine, or two

shots of hard liquor.

Drinks

Body Weight in Pounds

Effects

100

120

140

160

180

200

220

240

Approximate Blood Alcohol Content

.00

Only

Safe

Driving

Limit

.04

.03

.02

Impairment

Begins

.08

.06

.05

.04

.03

Driving Skills

Significantly Affected

Criminal Penalties

.11

.09

.08

.07

.06

.05

.15

.12

.11

.09

.08

.07

.06

.19

.16

.13

.12

.11

.09

.08

.23

.19

.16

.14

.13

.11

.10

.09

.26

.22

.19

.16

.15

.13

.12

.11

Legally Intoxicated

Criminal Penalties

.30

.25

.21

.19

.17

.15

.14

.13

.34

.28

.24

.21

.19

.17

.15

.14

.38

.31

.27

.23

.21

.19

.17

.16

Subtract .01% for each 40 minutes of drinking. One

drink is 1.5 oz. of 80 proof liquor, 12 oz. of beer, or 5

oz. of table wine.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 2 – Driving Safely 59

What Determines Blood Alcohol

Concentration?

BAC is determined by the amount of alcohol you drink

(more alcohol means higher BAC), how fast you drink

(faster drinking means higher BAC), and your weight (a

small person doesn't have to drink as much to reach the

same BAC).

Alcohol and the Brain

Alcohol affects more and more of the brain as BAC builds

up. The first part of the brain affected controls judgment

and self-control. One of the bad things about this is it can

keep drinkers from knowing they are getting drunk. And, of

course, good judgment and self-control are absolutely

necessary for safe driving.

As BAC continues to build up, muscle control, vision, and

coordination are affected more and more. Effects on

driving may include:

✓ Straddling lanes.

✓ Quick, jerky starts.

✓ Not signaling, failure to use lights.

✓ Running stop signs and red lights.

✓ Improper passing (See Figure 2.23).

These effects mean increased chances of a crash and

chances of losing your driver's license. Accident statistics

show that the chance of a crash is much greater for drivers

who have been drinking than for drivers who have not.

How Alcohol Affects Driving

All drivers are affected by drinking alcohol. Alcohol affects

judgment, vision, coordination, and reaction time. It causes

serious driving errors, such as:

✓ Increased reaction time to hazards.

✓ Driving too fast or too slow.

✓ Driving in the wrong lane.

✓ Running over the curb.

✓ Weaving.

Figure 2.23

2.22.2 – Other Drugs

Besides alcohol, other legal and illegal drugs are being

used more often. Laws prohibit possession or use of many

drugs while on duty. They prohibit being under the

influence of any "controlled substance," amphetamines

(including "pep pills," “uppers,” and "bennies"), narcotics,

or any other substance, which can make the driver unsafe.

This could include a variety of prescription and over-the-

counter drugs (cold medicines), which may make the

driver drowsy or otherwise affect safe driving ability.

However, possession and use of a drug given to a driver

by a doctor is permitted if the doctor informs the driver that

it will not affect safe driving ability.

Pay attention to warning labels for legitimate drugs and

medicines, and to doctor's orders regarding possible

effects. Stay away from illegal drugs.

Don't use any drug that hides fatigue--the only cure for

fatigue is rest. Alcohol can make the effects of other drugs

much worse. The safest rule is don't mix drugs with driving

at all.

Effects of Increasing Blood Alcohol Content

Blood Alcohol Content is the amount of alcohol in your

blood recorded in milligrams of alcohol per 100 milliliters of

blood. Your BAC depends on the amount of blood (which

increases with weight) and the amount of alcohol you

consume over time (how fast you drink). The faster you

drink, the higher your BAC, as the liver can only handle

about one drink per hour—the rest builds up in your blood.

BAC

Effects on Body

Effects on Driving

Condition

0.02

Mellow feeling,

slight body warmth.

Less inhibited.

0.05

Noticeable

relaxation.

Less alert, less self-

focused, coordination

impairment begins.

0.08

Definite impairment

in coordination &

judgment

Drunk driving limit,

impaired coordination &

judgment.

0.10*

Noisy, possible

embarrassing

behavior, mood

swings.

Reduction in reaction

time.

0.15

Impaired balance &

movement, clearly

drunk.

Unable to drive.

0.30

Many lose

consciousness.

0.40

Most lose

consciousness,

some die.

0.50

Breathing stops,

many die.

*BAC of .10 means that 1/10 of 1 % (or 1/1000) of your

total blood content is alcohol.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

60 Section 2 – Driving Safely

Use of drugs can lead to traffic accidents resulting in

death, injury, and property damage. Furthermore, it can

lead to arrest, fines, and jail sentences. It can also mean

the end of a person's driving career.

2.22.3 – Illness

Once in a while, you may become so ill that you cannot

operate a motor vehicle safely. If this happens to you, you

must not drive. However, in case of an emergency, you

may drive to the nearest place where you can safely stop.

2.23 – Hazardous Materials Rules for All

Commercial Drivers

All drivers should know something about hazardous

materials. You must be able to recognize hazardous

cargo, and you must know whether or not you can haul it

without having a hazardous materials endorsement on

your CDL license.

2.23.1 – What Are Hazardous Materials?

Hazardous materials are products that pose a risk to

health, safety, and property during transportation. See

Figure 2.24.

Figure 2.24

2.23.2 – Why Are There Rules?

You must follow the many rules about transporting

hazardous materials. The intent of the rules is to:

✓ Contain the product.

✓ Communicate the risk.

✓ Ensure safe drivers and equipment.

To Contain the Product

Many hazardous products can injure or kill on contact. To

protect drivers and others from contact, the rules tell

shippers how to package safely. Similar rules tell drivers

how to load, transport, and unload bulk tanks. These are

containment rules.

To Communicate the Risk

The shipper uses a shipping paper and diamond shaped

hazard labels to warn dockworkers and drivers of the risk.

After an accident or hazardous material spill or leak, you

may be injured and unable to communicate the hazards of

the materials you are transporting. Firefighters and police

can prevent or reduce the amount of damage or injury at

the scene if they know what hazardous materials are being

transported. Your life, and the lives of others, may depend

on quickly locating the hazardous materials shipping

papers. For that reason, you must identify shipping papers

related to hazardous materials or keep them on top of

other shipping papers. You must also keep shipping

papers:

✓ In a pouch on the driver's door, or

✓ In clear view within reach while driving, or

✓ On the driver's seat when out of the vehicle.

2.23.3 – Lists of Regulated Products

Placards

Placards are used to warn others of hazardous materials.

Placards are signs put on the outside of a vehicle that

identify the hazard class of the cargo. A placarded vehicle

must have at least four identical placards. They are put on

the front, rear, and both sides.

Placards must be readable from all four directions. They

must be at least 9.8” (250mm) inches square, turned

upright on a point, in a diamond shape. Cargo tanks and

other bulk packaging display the identification number of

their contents on placards or orange panels.

Identification Numbers

Identification numbers are a four-digit code used by first

responders to identify hazardous materials. An

identification number may be used to identify more than

one chemical on shipping papers. The identification

number will be preceded by the letters “NA” or “UN”. The

US DOT Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG) lists the

chemicals and the identification numbers assigned to

them.

Not all vehicles carrying hazardous materials need to have

placards. The rules about placards are given in Section 9

of this manual. You can drive a vehicle that carries

Hazard Class Definitions

Class

Class Name

Example

Explosives

Ammunition, Dynamite,

Fireworks

Gases

Propane, Oxygen, Helium

Flammable

Gasoline, Acetone

Flammable Solids

Matches, Fuses

Oxidizers

Ammonium Nitrate,

Hydrogen Peroxide

Poisons

Pesticides, Arsenic

Radioactive

Uranium, Plutonium

Corrosives

Hydrochloric Acid, Battery

Fluid

Miscellaneous

Hazardous Materials

Formaldehyde, Asbestos

None

ORM-D (Other

Regulated Material-

Domestic)

Hair Spray or Charcoal

None

Combustible Liquids

Fuel Oils, Lighter Fluid

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 2 – Driving Safely 61

hazardous materials if it does not require placards. If it

requires placards, you cannot drive it unless your driver

license has the hazardous materials endorsement. See

Figure 2.25.

Figure 2.25

The rules require all drivers of placarded vehicles to learn

how to safely load and transport hazardous products. They

must have a commercial driver license with the hazardous

materials endorsement. To get the

required endorsement, you must pass a written test on

material found in Section 9 of this manual.

A tank endorsement is required for any commercial vehicle

that is designed to transport any liquid or gaseous

materials in a tank or tanks having an individual rated

capacity of more than 119 gallons and an aggregate

capacity of 1,000 gallons or more that is either

permanently or temporarily attached to the vehicle or

chassis. The liquid or gas does not have to be a

hazardous material.

Drivers who need the hazardous materials endorsement

must learn the placard rules. If you do not know if your

vehicle needs placards, ask your employer. Never drive a

vehicle needing placards unless you have the hazardous

materials endorsement. To do so is a crime. When

stopped, you will be cited, and you will not be allowed to

drive your truck. It will cost you time and money. A failure

to placard when needed may risk your life and others if

you have an accident. Emergency help will not know of

your hazardous cargo.

Hazardous materials drivers must also know which

products they can load together, and which they cannot.

These rules are also in Section 9. Before loading a truck

with more than one type of product, you must know if it is

safe to load them together. If you do not know, ask your

employer and consult the regulations.

Subsections 2.22 and 2.23

Test Your Knowledge

1. Common medicines for colds can make you sleepy.

True or False?

2. Coffee and a little fresh air will help a drinker sober up.

True or False?

3. What is a hazardous materials placard?

4. Why are placards used?

These questions may be on the test. If you can't answer

them all, re-read subsections 2.22 and 2.23.

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 3 – Transporting Cargo Safely 63

Section 3

TRANSPORTING CARGO SAFELY

This Section Covers:

✓ Inspecting Cargo

✓ Cargo Weight and Balance

✓ Securing Cargo

✓ Cargo Needing Special Attention

This section tells you about hauling cargo safely. You must

understand basic cargo safety rules to get a CDL.

If you load cargo wrong or do not secure it, it can be a

danger to others and yourself. Loose cargo that falls off a

vehicle can cause traffic problems and others could be

hurt or killed. Loose cargo could hurt or kill you during a

quick stop or crash. Your vehicle could be damaged by an

overload. Steering could be affected by how a vehicle is

loaded, making it more difficult to control the vehicle.

Whether or not you load and secure the cargo yourself,

you are responsible for:

✓ Inspecting your cargo.

✓ Recognizing overloads and poorly balanced weight.

✓ Knowing your cargo is properly secured and does not

obscure your view ahead or to the sides.

✓ Knowing your cargo does not restrict your access to

emergency equipment.

If you intend to carry hazardous material that requires

placards on your vehicle, you will also need to have a

hazardous materials endorsement. Section 9 of this

manual has the information you need to pass the

hazardous materials test.

3.1 – Inspecting Cargo

As part of your Vehicle inspection, make sure the truck is

not overloaded and the cargo is balanced and secured

properly.

After Starting

Inspect the cargo and its securing devices again within the

first 50 miles after beginning a trip. Make any adjustments

needed.

Re-check

Re-check the cargo and securing devices as often as

necessary during a trip to keep the load secure. You need

to inspect again:

✓ After you have driven for 3 hours or 150 miles.

✓ After every break you take during driving.

Federal, state, and local regulations for commercial vehicle

weight, securing cargo, covering loads, and where you can

drive large vehicles vary from place to place. Know the

rules where you will be driving.

3.2 – Weight and Balance

You are responsible for not being overloaded. The

following are some definitions of weight you should know.

3.2.1 – Definitions You Should Know

✓ Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The value

specified by the manufacturer as the loaded weight of

a single vehicle.

✓ Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR). The

value specified by the manufacturer of the power unit,

if the value is displayed on the Federal Motor Vehicle

Safety Standard (FMVSS) certification label; or the

sum of the gross vehicle weight ratings (GVWRs) or

the gross vehicle weights (GVWs) of the power unit

and the towed unit(s), or any combination thereof, that

produces the highest value.

(The underlined and italicized text above is for use by

roadside enforcement only to determine whether the

driver/vehicle is subject to CDL regulations. It is not

used to determine whether a vehicle is representative

for the purposes of Skills testing).

✓ Axle Weight. The weight transmitted to the ground by

one axle or one set of axles.

✓ Tire Load. The maximum safe weight a tire can carry

at a specified pressure. This rating is stated on the

side of each tire.

✓ Suspension Systems. Suspension systems have a

manufacturer's weight capacity rating.

✓ Coupling Device Capacity. Coupling devices are rated

for the maximum weight they can pull and/or carry.

3.2.2 – Legal Weight Limits

You must keep weights within legal limits. States have

maximums for GVWRs, GCWRs, and axle weights. Often,

maximum axle weights are set by a bridge formula. A

bridge formula permits less maximum axle weight for axles

that are closer together. This is to prevent overloading

bridges and roadways.

Overloading can have bad effects on steering, braking,

and speed control. Overloaded trucks have to go very

slowly on upgrades. Worse, they may gain too much

speed on downgrades. Stopping distance increases.

Brakes can fail when forced to work too hard.

During bad weather or in mountains, it may not be safe to

operate at legal maximum weights. Take this into account

before driving.

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64 Section 3 – Transporting Cargo Safely

3.2.3 – Don't Be Top-heavy

The height of the vehicle's center of gravity is very

important for safe handling. A high center of gravity (cargo

piled up high or heavy cargo on top) means you are more

likely to tip over. It is most dangerous in curves, or if you

have to swerve to avoid a hazard. It is very important to

distribute the cargo so it is as low as possible. Put the

heaviest parts of the cargo under the lightest parts.

3.2.4 – Balance the Weight

Poor weight balance can make vehicle handling unsafe.

Too much weight on the steering axle can cause hard

steering. It can damage the steering axle and tires. Under-

loaded front axles (caused by shifting weight too far to the

rear) can make the steering axle weight too light to steer

safely. Too little weight on the driving axles can cause

poor traction. The drive wheels may spin easily. During

bad weather, the truck may not be able to keep going.

Weight that is loaded so there is a high center of gravity

causes greater chance of rollover. On flat bed vehicles,

there is also a greater chance that the load will shift to the

side or fall off. See Figure 3.1.

Figure 3.1

3.3 – Securing Cargo

3.3.1 – Blocking and Bracing

Blocking is used in the front, back, and/or sides of a piece

of cargo to keep it from sliding. Blocking is shaped to fit

snugly against cargo. It is secured to the cargo deck to

prevent cargo movement. Bracing is also used to prevent

movement of cargo. Bracing goes from the upper part of

the cargo to the floor and/or walls of the cargo

compartment.

3.3.2 – Cargo Tie-down

On flatbed trailers or trailers without sides, cargo must be

secured to keep it from shifting or falling off. In closed

vans, tie-downs can also be important to prevent cargo

shifting that may affect the handling of the vehicle. Tie-

downs must be of the proper type and proper strength.

Federal regulations require the aggregate working load

limit of any securement system used to secure an article or

group of articles against movement must be at least one-

half times the weight of the article or group of articles.

Proper tie-down equipment must be used, including ropes,

straps, chains, and tensioning devices (winches, ratchets,

clinching components). Tie-downs must be attached to the

vehicle correctly (hooks, bolts, rails, rings). See figure 3.2.

Figure 3.2

Cargo should have at least one tie-down for each ten feet

of cargo. Make sure you have enough tie-downs to meet

this need. No matter how small the cargo, it should have at

least two tie-downs.

There are special requirements for securing various heavy

pieces of metal. Find out what they are if you are to carry

such loads.

3.3.3 – Header Boards

Front-end header boards ("headache racks") protect you

from your cargo in case of a crash or emergency stop.

Make sure the front-end structure is in good condition. The

front-end structure should block the forward movement of

any cargo you carry.

3.3.4 – Covering Cargo

There are two basic reasons for covering cargo:

✓ To protect people from spilled cargo.

✓ To protect the cargo from weather.

Spill protection is a safety requirement in many states. Be

familiar with the laws in the states you drive in.

You should look at your cargo covers in the mirrors from

time to time while driving. A flapping cover can tear loose,

uncovering the cargo, and possibly block your view or

someone else's.

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Section 3 – Transporting Cargo Safely 65

3.3.5 – Sealed and Containerized Loads

Containerized loads generally are used when freight is

carried part way by rail or ship. Delivery by truck occurs at

the beginning and/or end of the journey. Some containers

have their own tiedown devices or locks that attach directly

to a special frame. Others have to be loaded onto flatbed

trailers. They must be properly secured just like any other

cargo.

You cannot inspect sealed loads, but you should check

that you don't exceed gross weight and axle weight limits.

3.4 – Cargo Needing Special Attention

3.4.1 – Dry Bulk

Dry bulk tanks require special care because they have a

high center of gravity, and the load can shift. Be extremely

cautious (slow and careful) going around curves and

making sharp turns.

3.4.2 – Hanging Meat

Hanging meat (suspended beef, pork, lamb) in a

refrigerated truck can be a very unstable load with a high

center of gravity. Particular caution is needed on sharp

curves such as off ramps and on ramps. Go slowly.

3.4.3 – Livestock

Livestock can move around in a trailer, causing unsafe

handling. With less than a full load, use false bulkheads to

keep livestock bunched together. Even when bunched,

special care is necessary because livestock can lean on

curves. This shifts the center of gravity and makes rollover

more likely.

3.4.4 – Oversized Loads

Over-length, over-width, over-height, and/or overweight

loads require special transit permits. Driving is usually

limited to certain times. Special equipment may be

necessary such as "wide load" signs, flashing lights, flags,

etc. Such loads may require a police escort or pilot

vehicles bearing warning signs and/or flashing lights.

These special loads require special driving care.

Section 3

Test Your Knowledge

1. What four things related to cargo are drivers

responsible for?

2. How often must you stop while on the road to check

your cargo?

3. How is Gross Combination Weight Rating different

from Gross Combination Weight?

4. Name two situations where legal maximum weights

may not be safe.

5. What can happen if you don't have enough weight on

the front axle?

6. What is the minimum number of tie-downs for any

flatbed load?

7. What is the minimum number of tie-downs for a 20-

foot load?

8. Name the two basic reasons for covering cargo on an

open bed.

9. What must you check before transporting a sealed

load?

These questions may be on your test. If you can't answer

them all, re-read Section 3.

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2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 4 – Transporting Passengers Safely 67

Section 4

TRANSPORTING PASSENGERS

SAFELY

This Section Covers:

✓ Vehicle Inspection

✓ Loading

✓ On the Road

✓ After-trip Vehicle Inspection

✓ Prohibited Practices

✓ Use of Brake-door Interlocks

Bus drivers must have a commercial driver license if they

drive a vehicle designed to seat more than 16 or more

persons, including the driver.

Bus drivers must have a passenger endorsement on their

commercial driver license. To get the endorsement you

must pass a knowledge test on Sections 2 and 4 of this

manual. If your bus has air brakes, you must also pass a

knowledge test on Section 5. You must also pass the skills

tests required for the class of vehicle you drive.

4.1 – Vehicle Inspection

Before driving your bus, you must be sure it is safe. You

must review the inspection report made by the previous

driver. Only if defects reported earlier have been certified

as repaired or not needed to be repaired, should you sign

the previous driver's report. This is your certification that

the defects reported earlier have been fixed.

4.1.1 – Vehicle Systems

Make sure these things are in good working order before

driving:

✓ Service brakes, including air hose couplings (if your

bus has a trailer or semitrailer).

✓ Parking brake.

✓ Steering mechanism.

✓ Lights and reflectors.

✓ Tires (front wheels must not have recapped or re-

grooved tires).

✓ Horn.

✓ Windshield wiper or wipers.

✓ Rear-vision mirror or mirrors.

✓ Coupling devices (if present).

✓ Wheels and rims.

✓ Emergency equipment.

Make sure your bus has the fire extinguisher and

emergency reflectors (3 reflective triangles or at least 6

fuses or 3 liquid burning flares) required by law. The bus

must also have spare electrical fuses, unless equipped

with circuit breakers.

4.1.2 – Access Doors and Panels

As you check the outside of the bus, close any open

emergency exits. Also, close any open access panels (for

baggage, restroom service, engine, etc.) before driving.

4.1.3 – Bus Interior

People sometimes damage unattended buses. Always

check the interior of the bus before driving to ensure rider

safety. Aisles and stairwells should always be clear. The

following parts of your bus must be in safe working

condition:

✓ Each handhold and railing.

✓ Floor covering.

✓ Signaling devices, including the restroom

emergency buzzer, if the bus has a restroom.

✓ Emergency exit handles.

The seats must be safe for riders. All seats must be

securely fastened to the bus.

Never drive with an open emergency exit door or window.

The "Emergency Exit" sign on an emergency door must be

clearly visible. If there is a red emergency door light, it

must work. Turn it on at night or any other time you use

your outside lights.

4.1.4 – Roof Hatches

You may lock some emergency roof hatches in a partly

open position for fresh air. Do not leave them open as a

regular practice. Keep in mind the bus's higher clearance

while driving with them open.

4.1.5 – Use Your Seatbelt!

The driver's seat should have a seat belt. Always use it for

safety.

4.2 – Loading and Trip Start

Do not allow riders to leave carry-on baggage in a

doorway or aisle. There should be nothing in the aisle that

might trip other riders. Secure baggage and freight in ways

that avoid damage and:

✓ Allow the driver to move freely and easily.

✓ Allow riders to exit by any window or door in an

emergency.

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68 Section 4 – Transporting Passengers Safely

✓ Protect riders from injury if carry-ons fall or shift.

4.2.1 – Hazardous Materials

Watch for cargo or baggage containing hazardous

materials. Most hazardous materials cannot be carried on

a bus.

The Federal Hazardous Materials Table shows which

materials are hazardous. They pose a risk to health,

safety, and property during transportation. The rules

require shippers to mark containers of hazardous material

with the material's name, identification number, and hazard

label. There are nine different four-inch, diamond-shaped

hazard labels. See Figure 4.1. Watch for the diamond-

shaped labels. Do not transport any hazardous material

unless you are sure the rules allow it.

Figure 4.1

4.2.2 – Forbidden Hazardous Materials

Buses may carry small-arms ammunition labeled ORM-D,

emergency hospital supplies, and drugs. You can carry

small amounts of some other hazardous materials if the

shipper cannot send them any other way. Buses must

never carry:

✓ Division 2.3 poison gas, liquid Class 6 poison, tear

gas, irritating material.

✓ More than 100 pounds of solid Class 6 poisons.

✓ Explosives in the space occupied by people, except

small arms ammunition.

✓ Labeled radioactive materials in the space occupied by

people.

✓ More than 500 pounds total of allowed hazardous

materials, and no more than 100 pounds of any one

class.

Riders sometimes board a bus with an unlabeled

hazardous material. Do not allow riders to carry on

common hazards such as car batteries or gasoline.

4.2.3 – Standee Line

No rider may stand forward of the rear of the driver's seat.

Buses designed to allow standing must have a two-inch

line on the floor or some other means of showing riders

where they cannot stand. This is called the standee line.

All standing riders must stay behind it.

4.2.4 – At Your Destination

When arriving at the destination or intermediate stops

announce:

✓ The location.

✓ Reason for stopping.

✓ Next departure time.

✓ Bus number.

Remind riders to take carry-ons with them if they get off

the bus. If the aisle is on a lower level than the seats,

remind riders of the step-down. It is best to tell them before

coming to a complete stop.

Charter bus drivers should not allow riders on the bus until

departure time. This will help prevent theft or vandalism of

the bus.

4.3 – On the Road

4.3.1 – Passenger Supervision

Many charter and intercity carriers have passenger

comfort and safety rules. Mention rules about smoking,

drinking, or use of radio and tape players at the start of the

trip. Explaining the rules at the start will help to avoid

trouble later on.

While driving, scan the interior of your bus as well as the

road ahead, to the sides, and to the rear. You may have to

remind riders about rules, or to keep arms and heads

inside the bus.

4.3.2 – At Stops

Riders can stumble when getting on or off, and when the

bus starts or stops. Caution riders to watch their step when

leaving the bus. Wait for them to sit down or brace

themselves before starting. Starting and stopping should

be as smooth as possible to avoid rider injury.

Hazard Class Definitions

Class

Class Name

Example

Explosives

Ammunition, Dynamite, Fireworks

Gases

Propane, Oxygen, Helium

Flammable

Gasoline Fuel, Acetone

Flammable Solids

Matches, Fuses

Oxidizers

Ammonium Nitrate, Hydrogen

Peroxide

Poisons

Pesticides, Arsenic

Radioactive

Uranium, Plutonium

Corrosives

Hydrochloric Acid, Battery Acid

Miscellaneous

Hazardous

Materials

Formaldehyde, Asbestos

None

ORM-D

(Other Regulated

Material-Domestic)

Hair Spray or Charcoal

None

Combustible

Liquids

Fuel Oils, Lighter Fluid

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Section 4 – Transporting Passengers Safely 69

Occasionally, you may have a drunk or disruptive rider.

You must ensure this rider's safety as well as that of

others. Don't discharge such riders where it would be

unsafe for them. It may be safer at the next scheduled stop

or a well-lighted area where there are other people. Many

carriers have guidelines for handling disruptive riders.

4.3.3 – Common Accidents

The Most Common Bus Accidents

Bus accidents often happen at intersections. Use caution,

even if a signal or stop sign controls other traffic. School

and mass transit buses sometimes scrape off mirrors or hit

passing vehicles when pulling out from a bus stop.

Remember the clearance your bus needs and watch for

poles and tree limbs at stops. Know the size of the gap

your bus needs to accelerate and merge with traffic. Wait

for the gap to open before leaving the stop. Never assume

other drivers will brake to give you room when you signal

or start to pull out.

4.3.4 – Speed on Curves

Crashes on curves that kill people and destroy buses

result from excessive speed, often when rain or snow has

made the road slippery. Every banked curve has a safe

"design speed." In good weather, the posted speed is safe

for cars, but it may be too high for many buses. With good

traction, the bus may roll over; with poor traction, it might

slide off the curve. Reduce speed for curves! If your bus

leans toward the outside on a banked curve, you are

driving too fast.

4.3.5 – Railroad-highway Crossing/Stops

Stop at RR Crossings:

✓ Stop your bus between 15 and 50 feet before railroad

crossings.

✓ Listen and look in both directions for trains. You should

open your forward door if it improves your ability to see

or hear an approaching train.

✓ Before crossing after a train has passed, make sure

there isn't another train coming in the other direction

on other tracks.

✓ If your bus has a manual transmission, never change

gears while crossing the tracks.

✓ You do not have to stop, but must slow down and

carefully check for other vehicles:

• At streetcar crossings.

• Where a policeman or flagman is directing traffic.

• If a traffic signal is green.

• At crossings marked as "exempt" or "abandoned."

4.3.6 – Drawbridges

Stop at Drawbridges

Stop at drawbridges that do not have a signal light or traffic

control attendant. Stop at least 50 feet before the draw of

the bridge. Look to make sure the draw is completely

closed before crossing. You do not need to stop, but must

slow down and make sure it's safe, when:

✓ There is a traffic light showing green.

✓ The bridge has an attendant or traffic officer who

controls traffic whenever the bridge opens.

4.4 – After-trip Vehicle Inspection

Inspect your bus at the end of each shift. If you work for an

interstate carrier, you must complete a written inspection

report for each bus driven. The report must specify each

bus and list any defect that would affect safety or result in

a breakdown. If there are no defects, the report should say

so.

Riders sometimes damage safety-related parts such as

handholds, seats, emergency exits, and windows. If you

report this damage at the end of a shift, mechanics can

make repairs before the bus goes out again. Mass transit

drivers should also make sure passenger signaling

devices and brake-door interlocks work properly.

4.5 – Prohibited Practices

Avoid fueling your bus with riders on board unless

absolutely necessary. Never refuel in a closed building

with riders on board.

Don't talk with riders, or engage in any other distracting

activity, while driving.

Do not tow or push a disabled bus with riders aboard the

vehicle, unless getting off would be unsafe. Only tow or

push the bus to the nearest safe spot to discharge

passengers. Follow your employer's guidelines on towing

or pushing disabled buses.

4.6 – Use of Brake-door Interlocks

Urban mass transit coaches may have a brake and

accelerator interlock system. The interlock applies the

brakes and holds the throttle in idle position when the rear

door is open. The interlock releases when you close the

rear door. Do not use this safety feature in place of the

parking brake.

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70 Section 4 – Transporting Passengers Safely

Section 4

Test Your Knowledge

1. Name some things to check in the interior of a bus

during a Vehicle inspection.

2. What are some hazardous materials you can transport

by bus?

3. What are some hazardous materials you can’t

transport by bus?

4. What is a standee line?

5. Does it matter where you make a disruptive passenger

get off the bus?

6. How far from a railroad crossing should you stop?

7. When must you stop before crossing a drawbridge?

8. Describe from memory the “prohibited practices” listed

in the manual.

9. The rear door of a transit bus has to be open to put on

the parking brake. True or False?

These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer

them all, re-read Section 4.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 5 – Air Brakes 71

Section 5

AIR BRAKES

This Section Covers:

✓ Air Brake System Parts

✓ Dual Air Brake Systems

✓ Inspecting Air Brakes

✓ Using Air Brakes

This section tells you about air brakes. If you want to drive

a truck or bus with air brakes, or pull a trailer with air

brakes, you need to read this section. If you want to pull a

trailer with air brakes, you also need to read Section 6,

Combination Vehicles.

Air brakes use compressed air to make the brakes work.

Air brakes are a good and safe way of stopping large and

heavy vehicles, but the brakes must be well maintained

and used properly.

Air brakes are really three different braking systems:

service brake, parking brake, and emergency brake.

✓ The service brake system applies and releases the

brakes when you use the brake pedal during normal

driving.

✓ The parking brake system applies and releases the

parking brakes when you use the parking brake

control.

✓ The emergency brake system uses parts of the service

and parking brake systems to stop the vehicle in a

brake system failure.

The parts of these systems are discussed in greater detail

below.

5.1 – The Parts of an Air Brake System

There are many parts to an air brake system. You should

know about the parts discussed here.

5.1.1 – Air Compressor

The air compressor pumps air into the air storage tanks

(reservoirs). The air compressor is connected to the

engine through gears or a v-belt. The compressor may be

air cooled or may be cooled by the engine cooling system.

It may have its own oil supply or be lubricated by engine

oil. If the compressor has its own oil supply, check the oil

level before driving.

5.1.2 – Air Compressor Governor

The governor controls when the air compressor will pump

air into the air storage tanks. When air tank pressure rises

to the "cut-out" level (around 125 pounds per-square-inch

or "psi"), the governor stops the compressor from pumping

air. When the tank pressure falls to the "cut-in" pressure

(around 100 psi), the governor allows the compressor to

start pumping again.

5.1.3 – Air Storage Tanks

Air storage tanks are used to hold compressed air. The

number and size of air tanks varies among vehicles. The

tanks will hold enough air to allow the brakes to be used

several times, even if the compressor stops working.

5.1.4 – Air Tank Drains

Compressed air usually has some water and some

compressor oil in it, which is bad for the air brake system.

For example, the water can freeze in cold weather and

cause brake failure. The water and oil tend to collect in the

bottom of the air tank. Be sure that you drain the air tanks

completely. Each air tank is equipped with a drain valve in

the bottom. There are two types:

✓ Manually operated by turning a quarter turn or by

pulling a cable. You must drain the tanks yourself at

the end of each day of driving. See Figure 5.1.

✓ Automatic--the water and oil are automatically

expelled. These tanks may be equipped for manual

draining as well.

Automatic air tanks are available with electric heating

devices. These help prevent freezing of the automatic

drain in cold weather.

Figure 5.1

5.1.5 – Alcohol Evaporator

Some air brake systems have an alcohol evaporator to put

alcohol into the air system. This helps to reduce the risk of

ice in air brake valves and other parts during cold weather.

Ice inside the system can make the brakes stop working.

Check the alcohol container and fill up as necessary, every

day during cold weather. Daily air tank drainage is still

needed to get rid of water and oil. (Unless the system has

automatic drain valves.)

5.1.6 – Safety Valve

A safety relief valve is installed in the first tank the air

compressor pumps air to. The safety valve protects the

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72 Section 5 – Air Brakes

tank and the rest of the system from too much pressure.

The valve is usually set to open at 150 psi. If the safety

valve releases air, something is wrong. Have the fault fixed

by a mechanic.

5.1.7 – The Brake Pedal

You put on the brakes by pushing down the brake pedal.

(It is also called the foot valve or treadle valve.) Pushing

the pedal down harder applies more air pressure. Letting

up on the brake pedal reduces the air pressure and

releases the brakes. Releasing the brakes lets some

compressed air go out of the system, so the air pressure in

the tanks is reduced. It must be made up by the air

compressor. Pressing and releasing the pedal

unnecessarily can let air out faster than the compressor

can replace it. If the pressure gets too low, the brakes

won't work.

5.1.8 – Foundation Brakes

Foundation brakes are used at each wheel. The most

common type is the s-cam drum brake. The parts of the

brake are discussed below.

Brake Drums, Shoes, and Linings

Brake drums are located on each end of the vehicle's

axles. The wheels are bolted to the drums. The braking

mechanism is inside the drum. To stop, the brake shoes

and linings are pushed against the inside of the drum. This

causes friction, which slows the vehicle (and creates heat).

The heat a drum can take without damage depends on

how hard and how long the brakes are used. Too much

heat can make the brakes stop working.

S-cam Brakes

When you push the brake pedal, air is let into each brake

chamber. Air pressure pushes the rod out, moving the

slack adjuster, thus twisting the brake camshaft. This turns

the s-cam (so called because it is shaped like the letter

"S"). The s-cam forces the brake shoes away from one

another and presses them against the inside of the brake

drum. When you release the brake pedal, the s-cam

rotates back and a spring pulls the brake shoes away from

the drum, letting the wheels roll freely again. See Figure

5.2.

Figure 5.2

Wedge Brakes

In this type of brake, the brake chamber push rod pushes

a wedge directly between the ends of two brake shoes.

This shoves them apart and against the inside of the brake

drum. Wedge brakes may have a single brake chamber, or

two brake chambers, pushing wedges in at both ends of

the brake shoes. Wedge type brakes may be self-adjusting

or may require manual adjustment.

Disc Brakes

In air-operated disc brakes, air pressure acts on a brake

chamber and slack adjuster, like s-cam brakes. But

instead of the s-cam, a "power screw" is used. The

pressure of the brake chamber on the slack adjuster turns

the power screw. The power screw clamps the disc or

rotor between the brake lining pads of a caliper, similar to

a large c-clamp.

Wedge brakes and disc brakes are less common than s-

cam brakes.

5.1.9 – Supply Pressure Gauges

All vehicles with air brakes have a pressure gauge

connected to the air tank. If the vehicle has a dual air

brake system, there will be a gauge for each half of the

system. (Or a single gauge with two needles.) Dual

systems will be discussed later. These gauges tell you

how much pressure is in the air tanks.

5.1.10 – Application Pressure Gauge

This gauge shows how much air pressure you are applying

to the brakes. (This gauge is not on all vehicles.)

Increasing application pressure to hold the same speed

means the brakes are fading. You should slow down and

use a lower gear. The need for increased pressure can

also be caused by brakes out of adjustment, air leaks, or

mechanical problems.

5.1.11 – Low Air Pressure Warning

A low air pressure warning signal is required on vehicles

with air brakes. A warning signal you can see must come

on before the air pressure in the tanks falls below 60 psi.

(Or one half the compressor governor cutout pressure on

older vehicles.) The warning is usually a red light. A buzzer

may also come on.

Another type of warning is the "wig wag." This device

drops a mechanical arm into your view when the pressure

in the system drops below 60 psi. An automatic wig wag

will rise out of your view when the pressure in the system

goes above 60 psi. The manual reset type must be placed

in the "out of view" position manually. It will not stay in

place until the pressure in the system is above 60 psi.

On large buses it is common for the low-pressure warning

devices to signal at 80-85 psi.

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Section 5 – Air Brakes 73

5.1.12 – Stop Light Switch

Drivers behind you must be warned when you put your

brakes on. The air brake system does this with an electric

switch that works by air pressure. The switch turns on the

brake lights when you put on the air brakes.

5.1.13 – Front Brake Limiting Valve

Some older vehicles (made before 1975) have a front

brake limiting valve and a control in the cab. The control is

usually marked "normal" and "slippery." When you put the

control in the "slippery" position, the limiting valve cuts the

"normal" air pressure to the front brakes by half. Limiting

valves were used to reduce the chance of the front wheels

skidding on slippery surfaces. However, they actually

reduce the stopping power of the vehicle. Front wheel

braking is good under all conditions. Tests have shown

front wheel skids from braking are not likely even on ice.

Make sure the control is in the "normal" position to have

normal stopping power.

Many vehicles have automatic front wheel limiting valves.

They reduce the air to the front brakes except when the

brakes are put on very hard (60 psi or more application

pressure). These valves cannot be controlled by the driver.

5.1.14 – Spring Brakes

All trucks, truck tractors, and buses must be equipped with

emergency brakes and parking brakes. They must be held

on by mechanical force (because air pressure can

eventually leak away). Spring brakes are usually used to

meet these needs. When driving, powerful springs are held

back by air pressure. If the air pressure is removed, the

springs put on the brakes. A parking brake control in the

cab allows the driver to let the air out of the spring brakes.

This lets the springs put the brakes on. A leak in the air

brake system, which causes all the air to be lost, will also

cause the springs to put on the brakes.

Tractor and straight truck spring brakes will come fully on

when air pressure drops to a range of 20 to 45 psi

(typically 20 to 30 psi). Do not wait for the brakes to come

on automatically. When the low air pressure warning light

and buzzer first come on, bring the vehicle to a safe stop

right away, while you can still control the brakes.

The braking power of spring brakes depends on the

brakes being in adjustment. If the brakes are not adjusted

properly, neither the regular brakes nor the

emergency/parking brakes will work right.

5.1.15 – Parking Brake Controls

In newer vehicles with air brakes, you put on the parking

brakes using a diamond-shaped, yellow, push-pull control

knob. You pull the knob out to put the parking brakes

(spring brakes) on and push it in to release them. On older

vehicles, the parking brakes may be controlled by a lever.

Use the parking brakes whenever you park.

Caution

Never push the brake pedal down when the spring brakes

are on. If you do, the brakes could be damaged by the

combined forces of the springs and the air pressure. Many

brake systems are designed so this will not happen. But

not all systems are set up that way, and those that are

may not always work. It is much better to develop the habit

of not pushing the brake pedal down when the spring

brakes are on.

Modulating Control Valves

In some vehicles a control handle on the dashboard may

be used to apply the spring brakes gradually. This is called

a modulating valve. It is spring-loaded so you have a feel

for the braking action. The more you move the control

lever, the harder the spring brakes come on. They work

this way so you can control the spring brakes if the service

brakes fail. When parking a vehicle with a modulating

control valve, move the lever as far as it will go and hold it

in place with the locking device.

Dual Parking Control Valves

When main air pressure is lost, the spring brakes come on.

Some vehicles, such as buses, have a separate air tank

which can be used to release the spring brakes. This is so

you can move the vehicle in an emergency. One of the

valves is a push-pull type and is used to put on the spring

brakes for parking. The other valve is spring loaded in the

"out" position. When you push the control in, air from the

separate air tank releases the spring brakes so you can

move. When you release the button, the spring brakes

come on again. There is only enough air in the separate

tank to do this a few times. Therefore, plan carefully when

moving. Otherwise, you may be stopped in a dangerous

location when the separate air supply runs out. See Figure

5.3.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

74 Section 5 – Air Brakes

Figure 5.3

5.1.16 – Antilock Braking Systems (ABS)

Truck tractors with air brakes built on or after March 1,

1997, and other air brakes vehicles, (trucks, buses,

trailers, and converter dollies) built on or after March 1,

1998, are required to be equipped with antilock brakes.

Many commercial vehicles built before these dates have

been voluntarily equipped with ABS. Check the

certification label for the date of manufacture to determine

if your vehicle is equipped with ABS. ABS is a

computerized system that keeps your wheels from locking

up during hard brake applications.

Vehicles with ABS have yellow malfunction lamps to tell

you if something isn’t working.

Tractors, trucks, and buses will have yellow ABS

malfunction lamps on the instrument panel.

Trailers will have yellow ABS malfunction lamps on the left

side, either on the front or rear corner. Dollies

manufactured on or after March 1, 1998 are required to

have a lamp on the left side.

On newer vehicles, the malfunction lamp comes on at

start-up for a bulb check, and then goes out quickly. On

older systems, the lamp could stay on until you are driving

over five mph.

If the lamp stays on after the bulb check, or goes on once

you are under way, you may have lost ABS control at one

or more wheels.

In the case of towed units manufactured before it was

required by the Department of Transportation, it may be

difficult to tell if the unit is equipped with ABS. Look under

the vehicle for the electronic control unit (ECU) and wheel

speed sensor wires coming from the back of the brakes.

ABS is an addition to your normal brakes. It does not

decrease or increase your normal braking capability. ABS

only activates when wheels are about to lock up.

ABS does not necessarily shorten your stopping distance,

but it does help you keep the vehicle under control during

hard braking.

Subsection 5.1

Test Your Knowledge

1. Why must air tanks be drained?

2. What is a supply pressure gauge used for?

3. All vehicles with air brakes must have a low air

pressure warning signal. True or False?

4. What are spring brakes?

5. Front wheel brakes are good under all conditions.

True or False?

6. How do you know if your vehicle is equipped with

antilock brakes?

These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer

them all, re-read subsection 5.1.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 5 – Air Brakes 75

Figure 5.4

5.2 – Dual Air Brake

Most heavy-duty vehicles use dual air brake systems for

safety. A dual air brake system has two separate air brake

systems, which use a single set of brake controls. Each

system has its own air tanks, hoses, lines, etc. One

system typically operates the regular brakes on the rear

axle or axles. The other system operates the regular

brakes on the front axle (and possibly one rear axle). Both

systems supply air to the trailer (if there is one). The first

system is called the "primary" system. The other is called

the "secondary" system. See Figure 5.4.

Before driving a vehicle with a dual air system, allow time

for the air compressor to build up a minimum of 100 psi

pressure in both the primary and secondary systems.

Watch the primary and secondary air pressure gauges (or

needles, if the system has two needles in one gauge).

Pay attention to the low air pressure warning light and

buzzer. The warning light and buzzer should shut off when

air pressure in both systems rises to a value set by the

manufacturer. This value must be greater than 60 psi.

The warning light and buzzer should come on before the

air pressure drops below 60 psi in either system. If this

happens while driving, you should stop right away and

safely park the vehicle. If one air system is very low on

pressure, either the front or the rear brakes will not be

operating fully. This means it will take you longer to stop.

Bring the vehicle to a safe stop and have the air brakes

system fixed.

5.3 – Inspecting Air Brake Systems

You should use the basic seven-step inspection procedure

described in Section 2 to inspect your vehicle. There are

more things to inspect on a vehicle with air brakes than

one without them. These things are discussed below, in

the order they fit into the seven-step method.

5.3.1 – During Step 2 Engine Compartment

Checks

Check Air Compressor Drive Belt (if compressor is belt-

driven). If the air compressor is belt-driven, check the

condition and tightness of the belt. It should be in good

condition.

5.3.2 – During Step 5 Walk-around Inspection

Check Slack Adjusters on S-cam Brakes

Park on level ground and chock the wheels to prevent the

vehicle from moving. Release the parking brakes so you

can move the slack adjusters. Use gloves and pull hard on

each slack adjuster that you can reach. If a slack adjuster

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

76 Section 5 – Air Brakes

moves more than about one inch where the push rod

attaches to it, it probably needs adjustment. Adjust it or

have it adjusted. Vehicles with too much brake slack can

be very hard to stop. Out-of-adjustment brakes are the

most common problem found in roadside inspections. Be

safe. Check the slack adjusters.

All vehicles built since 1994 have automatic slack

adjustors. Even though automatic slack adjustors adjust

themselves during full brake applications, they must be

checked.

Automatic adjusters should not have to be manually

adjusted except when performing maintenance on the

brakes and during installation of the slack adjusters. In a

vehicle equipped with automatic adjusters, when the

pushrod stroke exceeds the legal brake adjustment limit, it

is an indication that a mechanical problem exists in the

adjuster itself, a problem with the related foundation brake

components, or that the adjuster was improperly installed.

The manual adjustment of an automatic adjuster to bring a

brake pushrod stroke within legal limits is generally

masking a mechanical problem and is not fixing it.

Further, routine adjustment of most automatic adjusters

will likely result in premature wear of the adjuster itself. It

is recommended that when brakes equipped with

automatic adjusters are found to be out of adjustment, the

driver take the vehicle to a repair facility as soon as

possible to have the problem corrected. The manual

adjustment of automatic slack adjusters is dangerous

because it may give the driver a false sense of security

regarding the effectiveness of the braking system.

The manual adjustment of an automatic adjuster should

only be used as a temporary measure to correct the

adjustment in an emergency situation as it is likely the

brake will soon be back out of adjustment since this

procedure usually does not fix the underlying adjustment

problem.

(Note: Automatic slack adjusters are made by different

manufacturers and do not all operate the same. Therefore,

the specific manufacturer’s Service Manual should be

consulted prior to troubleshooting a brake adjustment

problem.)

Check Brake Drums (or Discs), Linings, and

Hoses

Brake drums (or discs) must not have cracks longer than

one half the width of the friction area. Linings (friction

material) must not be loose or soaked with oil or grease.

They must not be dangerously thin. Mechanical parts must

be in place, not broken or missing. Check the air hoses

connected to the brake chambers to make sure they aren't

cut or worn due to rubbing.

5.3.3 – Step 7 Final Air Brake Check

Do the following checks instead of the hydraulic brake

check shown in Section 2, Step 7: Check Brake System.

Check Air Compressor Governor Cut-in and

Cut-out Pressures

Pumping by the air compressor should start at about 100

psi and stop at about 125 psi. (Check manufacturer's

specifications.) Run the engine at a fast idle. The air

governor should cut-out the air compressor at about the

manufacturer's specified pressure. The air pressure shown

by your gauge(s) will stop rising. With the engine idling,

step on and off the brake to reduce the air tank pressure.

The compressor should cut-in at about the manufacturer's

specified cut-in pressure. The pressure should begin to

rise.

If the air governor does not work as described above, it

may need to be fixed. A governor that does not work

properly may not keep enough air pressure for safe

driving.

Test Air Leakage Rate

With a fully charged air system (typically 125 psi), turn off

the engine, release the parking brake (push in); and time

the air pressure drop. The loss rate should be less than

two psi in one minute for single vehicles and less than

three psi in one minute for combination vehicles.

With the air pressure built up to governor cutoff (120 – 140

psi), shut off the engine, chock your wheels (if necessary),

release the parking brake (all vehicles), and the tractor

protection valve (combination vehicle); and fully apply the

foot brake. Hold the foot brake for one minute. Check the

air gauge to see if the air pressure drops more than three

pounds in one minute (single vehicle) or four pounds in

one minute (combination vehicle). If the air pressure falls

more than three psi in one minute for single vehicles (more

than four psi for combination vehicles), the air loss rate is

too much. Check for air leaks and fix before driving the

vehicle. Otherwise, you could lose your brakes while

driving.

Test Low Pressure Warning Signal

Shut the engine off when you have enough air pressure so

that the low-pressure warning signal is not on. Turn the

electrical power on and step on and off the brake pedal to

reduce air tank pressure. The low air pressure warning

signal must come on before the pressure drops to less

than 60 psi in the air tank (or tank with the lowest air

pressure, in dual air systems). See Figure 5.5.

If the warning signal doesn't work, you could lose air

pressure and you would not know it. This could cause

sudden emergency braking in a single-circuit air system. In

dual systems the stopping distance will be increased. Only

limited braking can be done before the spring brakes come

on.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 5 – Air Brakes 77

Figure 5.5

Check That Spring Brakes Come On

Automatically

Continue to fan off the air pressure by stepping on and off

the brake pedal to reduce tank pressure. The tractor

protection valve and parking brake valve should close (pop

out) on a tractor-trailer combination vehicle and the

parking brake valve should close (pop out) on other

combination and single vehicle types when the air

pressure falls to the manufacturer’s specification (20 – 45

psi). This will cause the spring brakes to come on.

Check Rate of Air Pressure Buildup

When the engine is at operating rpms, the pressure should

build from 85 to 100 psi within 45 seconds in dual air

systems. (If the vehicle has larger than minimum air tanks,

the buildup time can be longer and still be safe. Check the

manufacturer's specifications.) In single air systems (pre-

1975), typical requirements are pressure build-up from 50

to 90 psi within 3 minutes with the engine at an idle speed

of 600-900 rpms.

If air pressure does not build up fast enough, your

pressure may drop too low during driving, requiring an

emergency stop. Don't drive until you get the problem

fixed.

Test Parking Brake

Stop the vehicle, put the parking brake on, and gently pull

against it in a low gear to test that the parking brake will

hold.

Test Service Brakes

Wait for normal air pressure, release the parking brake,

move the vehicle forward slowly (about five mph), and

apply the brakes firmly using the brake pedal. Note any

vehicle "pulling" to one side, unusual feel, or delayed

stopping action.

This test may show you problems, which you otherwise

wouldn't know about until you needed the brakes on the

road.

Subsections 5.2 and 5.3

Test Your Knowledge

1. What is a dual air brake system?

2. What are the slack adjusters?

3. How can you check slack adjusters?

4. How can you test the low-pressure warning signal?

5. How can you check that the spring brakes come on

automatically?

6. What are the maximum leakage rates?

These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer

them all, re-read subsections 5.2 and 5.3.

5.4 – Using Air Brakes

5.4.1 – Normal Stops

Push the brake pedal down. Control the pressure so the

vehicle comes to a smooth, safe stop. If you have a

manual transmission, don't push the clutch in until the

engine rpm is down close to idle. When stopped, select a

starting gear.

5.4.2 – Braking with Antilock Brakes

When you brake hard on slippery surfaces in a vehicle

without ABS, your wheels may lock up. When your

steering wheels lock up, you lose steering control. When

your other wheels lock up, you may skid, jackknife, or even

spin the vehicle.

ABS helps you avoid wheel lock up. The computer senses

impending lockup, reduces the braking pressure to a safe

level, and you maintain control.

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78 Section 5 – Air Brakes

You may or may not be able to stop faster with ABS, but

you should be able to steer around an obstacle while

braking, and avoid skids caused by over braking.

Having ABS on only the tractor, only the trailer, or even on

only one axle, still gives you more control over the vehicle

during braking. Brake normally.

When only the tractor has ABS, you should be able to

maintain steering control, and there is less chance of

jackknifing. But, keep your eye on the trailer and let up on

the brakes (if you can safely do so) if it begins to swing

out.

When only the trailer has ABS, the trailer is less likely to

swing out, but if you lose steering control or start a tractor

jackknife, let up on the brakes (if you can safely do so)

until you gain control.

When you drive a tractor-trailer combination with ABS, you

should brake as you always have. In other words:

✓ Use only the braking force necessary to stop safely

and stay in control.

✓ Brake the same way, regardless of whether you have

ABS on the tractor, the trailer, or both.

✓ As you slow down, monitor your tractor and trailer and

back off the brakes (if it is safe to do so) to stay in

control.

There is only one exception to this procedure, if you

always drive a straight truck or combination with working

ABS on all axles, in an emergency stop, you can fully

apply the brakes.

Without ABS, you still have normal brake functions. Drive

and brake as you always have.

Remember, if your ABS malfunctions, you still have

regular brakes. Drive normally, but get the system serviced

soon.

5.4.3 – Emergency Stops

If somebody suddenly pulls out in front of you, your natural

response is to hit the brakes. This is a good response if

there's enough distance to stop, and you use the brakes

correctly.

You should brake in a way that will keep your vehicle in a

straight line and allow you to turn if it becomes necessary.

You can use the "controlled braking" method or the "stab

braking" method.

Controlled Braking

With this method, you apply the brakes as hard as you can

without locking the wheels. Keep steering wheel

movements very small while doing this. If you need to

make a larger steering adjustment or if the wheels lock,

release the brakes. Re-apply the brakes as soon as you

can.

Stab Braking

Apply your brakes all the way. Release brakes when

wheels lock up. As soon as the wheels start rolling, apply

the brakes fully again. (It can take up to one second for the

wheels to start rolling after you release the brakes. If you

re-apply the brakes before the wheels start rolling, the

vehicle won't straighten out.)

5.4.4 – Stopping Distance

Stopping distance was described in Section 2 under

"Speed and Stopping Distance." With air brakes there is

an added delay - “Brake Lag”. This is the time required for

the brakes to work after the brake pedal is pushed. With

hydraulic brakes (used on cars and light/medium trucks),

the brakes work instantly. However, with air brakes, it

takes a little time (one half second or more) for the air to

flow through the lines to the brakes. Thus, the total

stopping distance for vehicles with air brake systems is

made up of four different factors.

Perception Distance + Reaction Distance + Brake Lag

Distance + Braking Distance = Total Stopping Distance.

The air brake lag distance at 55 mph on dry pavement

adds about 32 feet. So at 55 mph for an average driver

under good traction and brake conditions, the total

stopping distance is over 450 feet. See Figure 5.6.

Figure 5.6

5.4.5 – Brake Fading or Failure

Brakes are designed so brake shoes or pads rub against

the brake drum or disks to slow the vehicle. Braking

creates heat, but brakes are designed to take a lot of heat.

However, brakes can fade or fail from excessive heat

caused by using them too much and not relying on the

engine braking effect.

Excessive use of the service brakes results in overheating

and leads to brake fade. Brake fade results from excessive

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 5 – Air Brakes 79

heat causing chemical changes in the brake lining, which

reduce friction, and also causing expansion of the brake

drums. As the overheated drums expand, the brake shoes

and linings have to move farther to contact the drums, and

the force of this contact is reduced. Continued overuse

may increase brake fade until the vehicle cannot be

slowed down or stopped.

Brake fade is also affected by adjustment. To safely

control a vehicle, every brake must do its share of the

work. Brakes out of adjustment will stop doing their share

before those that are in adjustment. The other brakes can

then overheat and fade, and there will not be enough

braking available to control the vehicle(s). Brakes can get

out of adjustment quickly, especially when they are hot.

Therefore, check brake adjustment often.

5.4.6 – Proper Braking Technique

Remember. The use of brakes on a long and/or steep

downgrade is only a supplement to the braking effect of

the engine. Once the vehicle is in the proper low gear, the

following is the proper braking technique:

✓ Step 1: Apply the brakes just hard enough to feel a

definite slowdown.

✓ Step 2: When your speed has been reduced to

approximately five mph below your "safe" speed,

release the brakes. (This application should last for

about three seconds.)

✓ Step 3: When your speed has increased to your "safe"

speed, repeat steps 1 and 2.

For example, if your "safe" speed is 40 mph, you would not

apply the brakes until your speed reaches 40 mph. You

now apply the brakes hard enough to gradually reduce

your speed to 35 mph and then release the brakes.

Repeat this as often as necessary until you have reached

the end of the downgrade.

5.4.7 – Low Air Pressure

If the low air pressure warning comes on, stop and safely

park your vehicle as soon as possible. There might be an

air leak in the system. Controlled braking is possible only

while enough air remains in the air tanks. The spring

brakes will come on when the air pressure drops into the

range of 20 to 45 psi. A heavily loaded vehicle will take a

long distance to stop because the spring brakes do not

work on all axles. Lightly loaded vehicles or vehicles on

slippery roads may skid out of control when the spring

brakes come on. It is much safer to stop while there is

enough air in the tanks to use the foot brakes.

5.4.8 – Parking Brakes

Any time you park, use the parking brakes, except as

noted below. Pull the parking brake control knob out to

apply the parking brakes, push it in to release. The control

will be a yellow, diamond-shaped knob labeled "parking

brakes" on newer vehicles. On older vehicles, it may be a

round blue knob or some other shape (including a lever

that swings from side to side or up and down).

Don't use the parking brakes if the brakes are very hot

(from just having come down a steep grade), or if the

brakes are very wet in freezing temperatures. If they are

used while they are very hot, they can be damaged by the

heat. If they are used in freezing temperatures when the

brakes are very wet, they can freeze so the vehicle cannot

move. Use wheel chocks on a level surface to hold the

vehicle. Let hot brakes cool before using the parking

brakes. If the brakes are wet, use the brakes lightly while

driving in a low gear to heat and dry them.

If your vehicle does not have automatic air tank drains,

drain your air tanks at the end of each working day to

remove moisture and oil. Otherwise, the brakes could fail.

Never leave your vehicle unattended without applying

the parking brakes or chocking the wheels. Your

vehicle might roll away and cause injury and damage.

Subsection 5.4

Test Your Knowledge

1. Why should you be in the proper gear before starting

down a hill?

2. What factors can cause brakes to fade or fail?

3. The use of brakes on a long, steep downgrade is

only a supplement to the braking effect of the engine.

True or False?

4. If you are away from your vehicle only a short time,

you do not need to use the parking brake. True or

False?

5. How often should you drain air tanks?

6. How should you brake when you drive a tractor-

trailer combination with ABS?

7. You still have normal brake functions if your ABS is

not working. True or False?

These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer

them all, re-read subsection 5.4.

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2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 6 – Combination Vehicles 81

Section 6

COMBINATION VEHICLES

This Section Covers:

✓ Driving Combinations

✓ Combination Vehicle Air Brakes

✓ Antilock Brake Systems

✓ Coupling and Uncoupling

✓ Inspecting Combinations

This section provides information needed to pass the tests

for combination vehicles (tractor-trailer, doubles, triples,

straight truck with trailer). The information is only to give

you the minimum knowledge needed for driving common

combination vehicles. You should also study Section 7 if

you need to pass the test for doubles and triples.

6.1 – Driving Combination Vehicles Safely

Combination vehicles are usually heavier, longer, and

require more driving skill than single commercial vehicles.

This means that drivers of combination vehicles need

more knowledge and skill than drivers of single vehicles. In

this section, we talk about some important safety factors

that apply specifically to combination vehicles.

6.1.1 – Rollover Risks

More than half of truck driver deaths in crashes are the

result of truck rollovers. When more cargo is piled up in a

truck, the "center of gravity" moves higher up from the

road. The truck becomes easier to turn over. Fully loaded

rigs are ten times more likely to roll over in a crash than

empty rigs.

The following two things will help you prevent rollover--

keep the cargo as close to the ground as possible and

drive slowly around turns. Keeping cargo low is even more

important in combination vehicles than in straight trucks.

Also, keep the load centered on your rig. If the load is to

one side so it makes a trailer lean, a rollover is more likely.

Make sure your cargo is centered and spread out as much

as possible. (Cargo distribution is covered in Section 3 of

this manual.)

Rollovers happen when you turn too fast. Drive slowly

around corners, on ramps, and off ramps. Avoid quick

lane changes, especially when fully loaded.

6.1.2 – Steer Gently

Trucks with trailers have a dangerous "crack-the-whip"

effect. When you make a quick lane change, the crack-the-

whip effect can turn the trailer over. There are many

accidents where only the trailer has overturned.

"Rearward amplification" causes the crack-the-whip effect.

Figure 6.1 shows eight types of combination vehicles and

the rearward amplification each has in a quick lane

change. Rigs with the least crack-the-whip effect are

shown at the top and those with the most, at the bottom.

Rearward amplification of 2.0 in the chart means that the

rear trailer is twice as likely to turn over as the tractor. You

can see that triples have a rearward amplification of 3.5.

This means you can roll the last trailer of triples 3.5 times

as easily as a five-axle tractor.

Steer gently and smoothly when you are pulling trailers. If

you make a sudden movement with your steering wheel,

your trailer could tip over. Follow far enough behind other

vehicles (at least 1 second for each 10 feet of your vehicle

length, plus another second if going over 40 mph). Look

far enough down the road to avoid being surprised and

having to make a sudden lane change. At night, drive

slowly enough to see obstacles with your headlights before

it is too late to change lanes or stop gently. Slow down to a

safe speed before going into a turn.

6.1.3 – Brake Early

Control your speed whether fully loaded or empty. Large

combination vehicles take longer to stop when they are

empty than when they are fully loaded. When lightly

loaded, the very stiff suspension springs and strong brakes

give poor traction and make it very easy to lock up the

wheels. Your trailer can swing out and strike other

vehicles. Your tractor can jackknife very quickly. You also

must be very careful about driving "bobtail" tractors

(tractors without semitrailers). Tests have shown that

bobtails can be very hard to stop smoothly. It takes them

longer to stop than a tractor-semitrailer loaded to

maximum gross weight.

In any combination rig, allow lots of following distance and

look far ahead, so you can brake early. Don't be caught by

surprise and have to make a "panic" stop.

6.1.4 – Railroad-highway Crossings

Railroad-highway crossings can also cause problems,

particularly when pulling trailers with low underneath

clearance.

These trailers can get stuck on raised crossings:

✓ Low slung units (lowboy, car carrier, moving van,

possum-belly livestock trailer).

✓ Single-axle tractor pulling a long trailer with its landing

gear set to accommodate a tandem-axle tractor.

If for any reason you get stuck on the tracks, get out of the

vehicle and away from the tracks. Check signposts or

signal housing at the crossing for emergency notification

information. Call 911 or other emergency number. Give the

location of the crossing using all identifiable landmarks,

especially the DOT number, if posted.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

82 Section 6 – Combination Vehicles

Figure 6.1

* (From R.D. Ervin, R.L. Nisconger, C.C. MacAdam, and P.S. Fancher, “Influence of size and weight variables on the stability and control properties

of heavy trucks”, University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute, 1983).

6.1.5 – Prevent Trailer Skids

When the wheels of a trailer lock up, the trailer will tend to

swing around. This is more likely to happen when the

trailer is empty or lightly loaded. This type of jackknife is

often called a "trailer jackknife." See Figure 6.2.

The procedure for stopping a trailer skid is:

✓ Recognize the Skid. The earliest and best way to

recognize that the trailer has started to skid is by

seeing it in your mirrors. Any time you apply the

brakes hard, check the mirrors to make sure the trailer

is staying where it should be. Once the trailer swings

out of your lane, it's very difficult to prevent a jackknife.

✓ Stop Using the Brake. Release the brakes to get

traction back. Do not use the trailer hand brake (if

you have one) to "straighten out the rig." This is the

wrong thing to do since the brakes on the trailer

wheels caused the skid in the first place. Once the

trailer wheels grip the road again, the trailer will start to

follow the tractor and straighten out.

6.1.6 – Turn Wide

When a vehicle goes around a corner, the rear wheels

follow a different path than the front wheels. This is called

off-tracking or "cheating." Figure 6.3 shows how off-

tracking causes the path followed by a tractor to be wider

than the rig itself. Longer vehicles will off-track more. The

rear wheels of the powered unit (truck or tractor) will off-

track some, and the rear wheels of the trailer will off-track

even more. If there is more than one trailer, the rear

wheels of the last trailer will off-track the most. Steer the

front end wide enough around a corner so the rear end

does not run over the curb, pedestrians, etc. However,

keep the rear of your vehicle close to the curb. This will

stop other drivers from passing you on the right. If you

cannot complete your turn without entering another traffic

lane, turn wide as you complete the turn. This is better

than swinging wide to the left before starting the turn

because it will keep other drivers from passing you on the

right. See Figure 6.4.

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Figure 6.2

Figure 6.3

Figure 6.4

6.1.7 – Backing with a Trailer

When backing a car, straight truck, or bus, you turn the top

of the steering wheel in the direction you want to go. When

backing a trailer, you turn the steering wheel in the

opposite direction. Once the trailer starts to turn, you must

turn the wheel the other way to follow the trailer.

Whenever you back up with a trailer, try to position your

vehicle so you can back in a straight line. If you must back

on a curved path, back to the driver's side so you can see.

See Figure 6.5.

Figure 6.5

Look at Your Path

Look at your line of travel before you begin. Get out and

walk around the vehicle. Check your clearance to the sides

and overhead, in and near the path your vehicle.

Use Mirrors on Both Sides

Check the outside mirrors on both sides frequently. Get

out of the vehicle and re-inspect your path if you are

unsure.

Back Slowly

This will let you make corrections before you get too far off

course.

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84 Section 6 – Combination Vehicles

Correct Drift Immediately

As soon as you see the trailer getting off the proper path,

correct it by turning the top of the steering wheel in the

direction of the drift.

Pull Forward

When backing a trailer, make pull-ups to re-position your

vehicle as needed.

Subsection 6.1

Test Your Knowledge

1. What two things are important to prevent rollover?

2. When you turn suddenly while pulling doubles,

which trailer is most likely to turn over?

3. Why should you not use the trailer hand brake to

straighten out a jackknifing trailer?

4. What is off-tracking?

5. When you back a trailer, you should position your

vehicle so you can back in a curved path to the

driver’s side. True or False?

6. What type of trailers can get stuck on railroad-

highway crossings?

These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer

them all, re-read subsection 6.1.

6.2 – Combination Vehicle Air Brakes

You should study Section 5: Air Brakes before reading

this. In combination vehicles the braking system has parts

to control the trailer brakes, in addition to the parts

described in Section 5. These parts are described below.

6.2.1 – Trailer Hand Valve

The trailer hand valve (also called the trolley valve or

Johnson bar) works the trailer brakes. The trailer hand

valve should be used only to test the trailer brakes. Do not

use it in driving because of the danger of making the trailer

skid. The foot brake sends air to all of the brakes on the

vehicle (including the trailer(s)). There is much less danger

of causing a skid or jackknife when using just the foot

brake.

Never use the hand valve for parking because all the air

might leak out unlocking the brakes (in trailers that don't

have spring brakes). Always use the parking brakes when

parking. If the trailer does not have spring brakes, use

wheel chocks to keep the trailer from moving.

6.2.2 – Tractor Protection Valve

The tractor protection valve keeps air in the tractor or truck

brake system should the trailer break away or develop a

bad leak. The tractor protection valve is controlled by the

"trailer air supply" control valve in the cab. The control

valve allows you to open and shut the tractor protection

valve. The tractor protection valve will close automatically

if air pressure is low (in the range of 20 to 45 psi). When

the tractor protection valve closes, it stops any air from

going out of the tractor. It also lets the air out of the trailer

emergency line. This causes the trailer emergency brakes

to come on, with possible loss of control. (Emergency

brakes are covered later.)

6.2.3 – Trailer Air Supply Control

The trailer air supply control on newer vehicles is a red

eight-sided knob, which you use to control the tractor

protection valve. You push it in to supply the trailer with air

and pull it out to shut the air off and put on the trailer

emergency brakes. The valve will pop out (thus closing the

tractor protection valve) when the air pressure drops into

the range of 20 to 45 psi. Tractor protection valve controls

or "emergency" valves on older vehicles may not operate

automatically. There may be a lever rather than a knob.

The "normal" position is used for pulling a trailer. The

"emergency" position is used to shut the air off and put on

the trailer emergency brakes.

6.2.4 – Trailer Air Lines

Every combination vehicle has two air lines, the service

line and the emergency line. They run between each

vehicle (tractor to trailer, trailer to dolly, dolly to second

trailer, etc.)

Service Air Line

The service line (also called the control line or signal line)

carries air, which is controlled by the foot brake or the

trailer hand brake. Depending on how hard you press the

foot brake or hand valve, the pressure in the service line

will similarly change. The service line is connected to relay

valves. These valves allow the trailer brakes to be applied

more quickly than would otherwise be possible.

Emergency Air Line

The emergency line (also called the supply line) has two

purposes. First, it supplies air to the trailer air tanks.

Second, the emergency line controls the emergency

brakes on combination vehicles. Loss of air pressure in the

emergency line causes the trailer emergency brakes to

come on. The pressure loss could be caused by a trailer

breaking loose, thus tearing apart the emergency air hose.

Or it could be caused by a hose, metal tubing, or other part

breaking, letting the air out. When the emergency line

loses pressure, it also causes the tractor protection valve

to close (the air supply knob will pop out).

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Emergency lines are often coded with the color red (red

hose, red couplers, or other parts) to keep from getting

them mixed up with the blue service line.

6.2.5 – Hose Couplers (Glad Hands)

Glad hands are coupling devices used to connect the

service and emergency air lines from the truck or tractor to

the trailer. The couplers have a rubber seal, which

prevents air from escaping. Clean the couplers and rubber

seals before a connection is made. When connecting the

glad hands, press the two seals together with the couplers

at a 90-degree angle to each other. A turn of the glad hand

attached to the hose will join and lock the couplers.

When coupling, make sure to couple the proper glad

hands together. To help avoid mistakes, colors are

sometimes used. Blue is used for the service lines and red

for the emergency (supply) lines. Sometimes, metal tags

are attached to the lines with the words "service" and

"emergency" stamped on them. See Figure 6.6.

If you do cross the air lines, supply air will be sent to the

service line instead of going to charge the trailer air tanks.

Air will not be available to release the trailer spring brakes

(parking brakes). If the spring brakes don't release when

you push the trailer air supply control, check the air-line

connections.

Older trailers do not have spring brakes. If the air supply in

the trailer air tank has leaked away there will be no

emergency brakes, and the trailer wheels will turn freely.

If you crossed the air lines, you could drive away but you

wouldn't have trailer brakes. This would be very

dangerous. Always test the trailer brakes before driving

with the hand valve or by pulling the air supply (tractor

protection valve) control. Pull gently against them in a low

gear to make sure the brakes work.

Some vehicles have "dead end" or dummy couplers to

which the hoses may be attached when they are not in

use. This will prevent water and dirt from getting into the

coupler and the air lines. Use the dummy couplers when

the air lines are not connected to a trailer. If there are no

dummy couplers, the glad hands can sometimes be locked

together (depending on the couplings). It is very important

to keep the air supply clean.

Figure 6.6

6.2.6 – Trailer Air Tanks

Each trailer and converter dolly has one or more air tanks.

They are filled by the emergency (supply) line from the

tractor. They provide the air pressure used to operate

trailer brakes. Air pressure is sent from the air tanks to the

brakes by relay valves.

The pressure in the service line tells how much pressure

the relay valves should send to the trailer brakes. The

pressure in the service line is controlled by the brake pedal

(and the trailer hand brake).

It is important that you don't let water and oil build up in the

air tanks. If you do, the brakes may not work correctly.

Each tank has a drain valve on it and you should drain

each tank every day. If your tanks have automatic drains,

they will keep most moisture out. But you should still open

the drains to make sure.

6.2.7 – Shut-off Valves

Shut-off valves (also called cut-out cocks) are used in the

service and supply air lines at the back of trailers used to

tow other trailers. These valves permit closing the air lines

off when another trailer is not being towed. You must

check that all shut-off valves are in the open position

except the ones at the back of the last trailer, which must

be closed.

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6.2.8 – Trailer Service, Parking and

Emergency Brakes

Newer trailers have spring brakes just like trucks and truck

tractors. However, converter dollies and trailers built

before 1975 are not required to have spring brakes. Those

that do not have spring brakes have emergency brakes,

which work from the air stored in the trailer air tank. The

emergency brakes come on whenever air pressure in the

emergency line is lost. These trailers have no parking

brake. The emergency brakes come on whenever the air

supply knob is pulled out or the trailer is disconnected. A

major leak in the emergency line will cause the tractor

protection valve to close and the trailer emergency brakes

to come on. But the brakes will hold only as long as there

is air pressure in the trailer air tank. Eventually, the air will

leak away and then there will be no brakes. Therefore, it is

very important for safety that you use wheel chocks when

you park trailers without spring brakes.

You may not notice a major leak in the service line until

you try to put the brakes on. Then, the air loss from the

leak will lower the air tank pressure quickly. If it goes low

enough, the trailer emergency brakes will come on.

Subsection 6.2

Test Your Knowledge

1. Why should you not use the trailer hand valve while

driving?

2. Describe what the trailer air supply control does.

3. Describe what the service line is for.

4. What is the emergency air-line for?

5. Why should you use chocks when parking a trailer

without spring brakes?

6. Where are shut-off valves?

These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer

them all, re-read subsection 6.2.

6.3 – Antilock Brake Systems

6.3.1 – Trailers Required to Have ABS

All trailers and converter dollies built on or after March 1,

1998, are required to have ABS. However, many trailers

and converter dollies built before this date have been

voluntarily equipped with ABS.

Trailers will have yellow ABS malfunction lamps on the left

side, either on the front or rear corner. See Figure 6.7.

Dollies manufactured on or after March 1, 1998, are

required to have a lamp on the left side.

In the case of vehicles manufactured before the required

date, it may be difficult to tell if the unit is equipped with

ABS. Look under the vehicle for the ECU and wheel speed

sensor wires coming from the back of the brakes.

Figure 6.7

6.3.2 – Braking with ABS

ABS is an addition to your normal brakes. It does not

decrease or increase your normal braking capability. ABS

only activates when wheels are about to lock up.

ABS does not necessarily shorten your stopping distance,

but it does help you keep the vehicle under control during

hard braking.

ABS helps you avoid wheel lock up. The computer senses

impending lockup, reduces the braking pressure to a safe

level, and you maintain control.

Having ABS on only the trailer, or even on only one axle,

still gives you more control over the vehicle during braking.

When only the trailer has ABS, the trailer is less likely to

swing out, but if you lose steering control or start a tractor

jackknife, let up on the brakes (if you can safely do so)

until you gain control.

When you drive a tractor-trailer combination with ABS, you

should brake as you always have. In other words:

✓ Use only the braking force necessary to stop safely

and stay in control.

✓ Brake the same way, regardless of whether you have

ABS on the tractor, the trailer, or both.

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✓ As you slow down, monitor your tractor and trailer and

back off the brakes (if it is safe to do so) to stay in

control.

Remember, if your ABS malfunctions, you still have

regular brakes. Drive normally, but get the system serviced

soon.

ABS won’t allow you to drive faster, follow more closely, or

drive less carefully.

6.4 – Coupling and Uncoupling

Knowing how to couple and uncouple correctly is basic to

safe operation of combination vehicles. Wrong coupling

and uncoupling can be very dangerous. General coupling

and uncoupling steps are listed below. There are

differences between different rigs, so learn the details of

coupling and uncoupling the truck(s) you will operate.

6.4.1 – Coupling Tractor-Semitrailers

Step 1. Inspect Fifth Wheel

✓ Check for damaged/missing parts.

✓ Check to see that mounting to tractor is secure, no

cracks in frame, etc.

✓ Be sure that the fifth wheel plate is greased as

required. Failure to keep the fifth wheel plate

lubricated could cause steering problems because of

friction between the tractor and trailer.

✓ Check if fifth wheel is in proper position for coupling:

• Wheel tilted down toward rear of tractor.

• Jaws open.

• Safety unlocking handle in the automatic lock

position.

• If you have a sliding fifth wheel, make sure it is

locked.

• Make sure the trailer kingpin is not bent or broken.

Step 2. Inspect Area and Chock Wheels

✓ Make sure area around the vehicle is clear.

✓ Be sure trailer wheels are chocked or spring brakes

are on.

✓ Check that cargo (if any) is secured against movement

due to tractor being coupled to the trailer.

Step 3. Position Tractor

✓ Put the tractor directly in front of the trailer. (Never

back under the trailer at an angle because you might

push the trailer sideways and break the landing gear.)

✓ Check position, using outside mirrors, by looking down

both sides of the trailer.

Step 4. Back Slowly

✓ Back until fifth wheel just touches the trailer.

✓ Don't hit the trailer.

Step 5. Secure Tractor

✓ Put on the parking brake.

✓ Put transmission in neutral.

Step 6. Check Trailer Height

✓ The trailer should be low enough that it is raised

slightly by the tractor when the tractor is backed under

it. Raise or lower the trailer as needed. (If the trailer is

too low, the tractor may strike and damage the trailer

nose; if the trailer is too high, it may not couple

correctly.)

✓ Check that the kingpin and fifth wheel are aligned.

Step 7. Connect Air-lines to Trailer

✓ Check glad hand seals and connect tractor emergency

air-line to trailer emergency glad hand.

✓ Check glad hand seals and connect tractor service air-

line to trailer service glad hand.

✓ Make sure air-lines are safely supported where they

won't be crushed or caught while tractor is backing

under the trailer.

Step 8. Supply Air to Trailer

✓ From cab, push in "air supply" knob or move tractor

protection valve control from the "emergency" to the

"normal" position to supply air to the trailer brake

system.

✓ Wait until the air pressure is normal.

✓ Check brake system for crossed air lines.

• Shut engine off so you can hear the brakes.

• Apply and release trailer brakes and listen for

sound of trailer brakes being applied and released.

You should hear the brakes move when applied

and air escape when the brakes are released.

• Check air brake system pressure gauge for signs

of major air loss.

✓ When you are sure trailer brakes are working, start

engine.

✓ Make sure air pressure is up to normal.

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Step 9. Lock Trailer Brakes

✓ Pull out the "air supply" knob or move the tractor

protection valve control from "normal" to "emergency."

Step 10. Back Under Trailer

✓ Use lowest reverse gear.

✓ Back tractor slowly under trailer to avoid hitting the

kingpin too hard.

✓ Stop when the kingpin is locked into the fifth wheel.

Step 11. Check Connection for Security

✓ Raise trailer landing gear slightly off ground.

✓ Pull tractor gently forward while the trailer brakes are

still locked to check that the trailer is locked onto the

tractor.

Step 12. Secure Vehicle

✓ Put transmission in neutral.

✓ Put parking brakes on.

✓ Shut off engine and take key with you so someone

else won't move truck while you are under it.

Step 13. Inspect Coupling

✓ Use a flashlight, if necessary.

✓ Make sure there is no space between upper and lower

fifth wheel. If there is space, something is wrong

(kingpin may be on top of the closed fifth wheel jaws,

and trailer would come loose very easily).

✓ Go under trailer and look into the back of the fifth

wheel. Make sure the fifth wheel jaws have closed

around the shank of the kingpin.

✓ Check that the locking lever is in the "lock" position.

✓ Check that the safety latch is in position over locking

lever. (On some fifth wheels the catch must be put in

place by hand.)

✓ If the coupling isn't right, don't drive the coupled unit;

get it fixed.

Step 14. Connect the Electrical Cord and

Check Air-lines

✓ Plug the electrical cord into the trailer and fasten the

safety catch.

✓ Check both air-lines and electrical line for signs of

damage.

✓ Make sure air and electrical lines will not hit any

moving parts of vehicle.

Step 15. Raise Front Trailer Supports

(Landing Gear)

✓ Use low gear range (if so equipped) to begin raising

the landing gear. Once free of weight, switch to the

high gear range.

✓ Raise the landing gear all the way up. (Never drive

with landing gear only part way up as it may catch on

railroad tracks or other things.)

✓ After raising landing gear, secure the crank handle

safely.

✓ When full weight of trailer is resting on tractor:

• Check for enough clearance between rear of

tractor frame and landing gear. (When tractor

turns sharply, it must not hit landing gear.)

• Check that there is enough clearance between the

top of the tractor tires and the nose of the trailer.

Step 16. Remove Trailer Wheel Chocks

✓ Remove and store wheel chocks in a safe place.

6.4.2 – Uncoupling Tractor-Semitrailers

The following steps will help you to uncouple safely.

Step 1. Position Rig

✓ Make sure surface of parking area can support weight

of trailer.

✓ Have tractor lined up with the trailer. (Pulling out at an

angle can damage landing gear.)

Step 2. Ease Pressure on Locking Jaws

✓ Shut off trailer air supply to lock trailer brakes.

✓ Ease pressure on fifth wheel locking jaws by backing

up gently. (This will help you release the fifth wheel

locking lever.)

✓ Put parking brakes on while tractor is pushing against

the kingpin. (This will hold rig with pressure off the

locking jaws.)

Step 3. Chock Trailer Wheels

✓ Chock the trailer wheels if the trailer doesn't have

spring brakes or if you're not sure. (The air could leak

out of the trailer air tank, releasing its emergency

brakes. Without chocks, the trailer could move.)

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Step 4. Lower the Landing Gear

✓ If trailer is empty, lower the landing gear until it makes

firm contact with the ground.

✓ If trailer is loaded, after the landing gear makes firm

contact with the ground, turn crank in low gear a few

extra turns. This will lift some weight off the tractor.

(Do not lift trailer off the fifth wheel.) This will:

• Make it easier to unlatch fifth wheel.

• Make it easier to couple next time.

Step 5. Disconnect Air-lines and Electrical

Cable

✓ Disconnect air-lines from trailer. Connect air-line glad

hands to dummy couplers at back of cab or couple

them together.

✓ Hang electrical cable with plug down to prevent

moisture from entering it.

✓ Make sure lines are supported so they won't be

damaged while driving the tractor.

Step 6. Unlock Fifth Wheel

✓ Raise the release handle lock.

✓ Pull the release handle to "open" position.

✓ Keep legs and feet clear of the rear tractor wheels to

avoid serious injury in case the vehicle moves.

Step 7. Pull Tractor Partially Clear of Trailer

✓ Pull tractor forward until fifth wheel comes out from

under the trailer.

✓ Stop with tractor frame under trailer (prevents trailer

from falling to ground if landing gear should collapse or

sink).

Step 8. Secure Tractor

✓ Apply parking brake.

✓ Place transmission in neutral.

Step 9. Inspect Trailer Supports

✓ Make sure ground is supporting trailer.

✓ Make sure landing gear is not damaged.

Step 10. Pull Tractor Clear of Trailer

✓ Release parking brakes.

✓ Check the area and drive tractor forward until it clears.

6.4.3 Coupling a Pintle Hook

Step 1. Inspect Pintle Hook

✓ Before operating, check for worn, damaged, or missing

parts, and make sure mount is secure.

✓ If the pintle hook is not secured to the mounting

surface, the pintle hook could separate from the

vehicle which, if not avoided, could result in death or

serious injury.

Step 2. Unlock Lock Pin and Open Latch

✓ Unlock and remove the tethered lock pin, if applicable

(Figure 6.8).

✓ Lift the lock handle away from the vehicle until the lock

clears the lock seat on the hook body.

Figure 6.8

✓ Open the latch by rotating the latch assembly up

toward the vehicle until the latch is in its most upright

position, then release the lock handle. (Figure 6.9 and

6.10).

Figure 6.9

Figure 6.10

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Step 3. Lower Drawbar into Place

✓ Position the drawbar eye over the horn of the pintle

hook and lower it into place.

Step 4. Lock Pintle Hook

✓ Push the latch closed. When correctly locked, the lock

handle will rotate and move up until it is flush with the

top of the latch (Figure 6.11).

Figure 6.11

✓ Insert the tethered lock pin through the latch and lock

holes, and close the tethered wire lock pin, if

applicable (Figure 6.8).

Failure to correctly lock the latch can result in separation of

the trailer and vehicle which, if not avoided, could result in

death or serious injury.

6.4.4 - Uncoupling a Pintle Hook

Step 1. Park on Level Surface

✓ Park the trailer on a firm level surface and block trailer

tires.

Step 2. Disconnect Electrical Connector,

Breakaway Brake Switch and Safety Chains

✓ Disconnect electrical connector.

✓ Disconnect breakaway brake switch lanyard.

✓ Disconnect safety chains from tow vehicle.

Step 3. Unlock the Coupler

✓ Unlock the coupler and open it.

Step 4. Check Ground Surface for Correct

Support

✓ Before extending jack, make certain the ground

surface below the jack pad will support the tongue

load.

Step 5. Rotate Jack Handle

✓ Rotate jack handle to extend the jack and transfer the

weight of the trailer tongue to the jack.

Step 6. Raise Trailer Coupler

✓ Raise the trailer coupler above the tow vehicle hitch.

Step 7. Drive Forward

✓ Drive tow vehicle forward.

6.4.5 - Coupling a Drawbar

Figure 6.12

Step 1. Remove Safety Lock screw and

Rotate Safety Cover Bar

✓ Remove safety lock screw (2), recover and keep the

relative self-locking nut (12) aside then also loosen

safety lock screw (2a) and turn out the adjustment

screw (3) by at least five turns (Figure 6.12).

✓ Rotate the safety cover bar (4) outwards so that it is

completely open.

Step 2. Reverse Truck

✓ Reverse truck very slowly until the ball cup drawbar

eye (6) is in position exactly above the drawbar

coupling ball (5).

Step 3. Lower the Drawbeam

✓ Lower the drawbeam until the ball cup drawbar eye (6)

lies completely covering the drawbar coupling ball (5).

Step 4. Rotate the Safety Cover Bar

✓ Rotate the safety cover bar back inwards (4) and fit in

safety lock screw (2) together with its self-locking nut.

✓ Tighten in both the lock screws (2, 2a) together with

their relative self-locking nuts (12, 12a) at a 350 to 400

Nm torque wrench setting.

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Step 5. Adjust the Adjustment Screw

✓ Adjust the adjustment screw (3) until a 0.3 - 0.5 mm

vertical clearance between the guard disk (13) and the

ball cup (6) is reached. Lock setting with counter nut

(11) (Figure 6.13).

Figure 6.13

In the event that the safety cover bar (4) will not perfectly

lodge into its seating appropriately, travel is strictly

forbidden.

Figure 6.14

Step 6. Protect Coupling Ball and Anchor

Edge onto Ball

✓ Protect the part that is still visible of the coupling ball

(5) with the rubber dust proof bellows protection cover

(7). Accurately anchor the edge directly onto the ball

itself.

Step 7. Lubricate the Drawbar Eye

✓ Lubricate the inside of the drawbar eye ball cup (6)

directly through the grease nipple (18).

6.4.6 - Uncoupling a Drawbar

Step 1. Turn Trailer Brake On

✓ Make sure that the trailer brake is on.

Step 2. Remove Cover and Loosen Screws

✓ Remove the rubber dust proof bellows protection cover

(7).

✓ Loosen the adjustment screw (3) and the counter nut

(11).

✓ Loosen safety lock screw (2a) and remove safety lock

screw (2) together with its self-locking nut (12).

Step 3. Rotate Safety Cover Bar and Lift

Trailer Drawbeam

✓ Rotate the safety cover bar (4) outwards so that it is

completely open.

✓ Lift the trailer drawbeam until the drawbar coupling ball

(5) is fully visible, then travel forward with the trailer

very slowly.

✓ Rotate the safety cover bar inwards (4) until it lodges

back in its housing.

Step 4. Lock Safety Screw and Tighten Self-

Locking Nut

✓ Fit in safety lock screw (2) and tighten in self-locking

nut (12).

6.4.7 - Coupling a Gooseneck Hitch

If you are hooking up a Gooseneck or a fifth wheel hitch,

the procedure is a little different from a receiver and ball,

but it is not more difficult.

Step 1. Open the Latch and Lubricate the

Gooseneck Ball

✓ Open the clamp latch on the Gooseneck coupler.

✓ Make sure that the Gooseneck ball is properly

lubricated.

Step 2. Position Coupler and Latch the Clamp

✓ Position the trailer's coupler directly over the ball and

lower the Gooseneck trailer into position and latch the

clamp.

Step 3. Attach Safety Chains

✓ Attach your safety chains. Remember that all trailers

are required by law to have safety chains.

Step 4. Connect Trailer Light Wiring

✓ Connect your trailer light wiring to your vehicle's

connector.

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92 Section 6 – Combination Vehicles

✓ Check all of your lights, including your brake lights.

Step 5. Lower and Stow the Trailer Jacks

✓ Completely lower and stow the trailer jacks, allowing

the weight to settle onto the tow vehicle.

6.4.8 Uncoupling a Gooseneck Hitch

Step 1. Remove Safety Pin and Clip

✓ Simply remove safety pin and clip.

Step 2. Rotate Handle and Raise Trailer Off

Ball

✓ Rotate handle to this position (Figure 6.15) and raise

trailer off ball. Coupler will return to load position

automatically.

Step 3. Install Safety Pin and Clip

✓ Install safety pin and clip (Figure 6.15).

Figure 6.15

✓

Subsections 6.3 and 6.4

Test Your Knowledge

1. What might happen if the trailer is too high when you

try to couple?

2. After coupling, how much space should be between

the upper and lower fifth wheel?

3. You should look into the back of the fifth wheel to see

if it is locked onto the kingpin. True or False?

4. To drive you need to raise the landing gear only until it

just lifts off the pavement. True or False?

5. How do you know if your trailer is equipped with

antilock brakes?

These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer

them all, re-read subsections 6.3 and 6.4.

6.5 – Inspecting a Combination Vehicle

Use the seven-step inspection procedure described in

Section 2 to inspect your combination vehicle. There are

more things to inspect on a combination vehicle than on a

single vehicle. (For example, tires, wheels, lights,

reflectors, etc.) However, there are also some new things

to check. These are discussed below.

6.5.1 – Additional Things to Check during a

Walk-around Inspection

Do these checks in addition to those already listed in

Section 2.

Coupling System Areas

✓ Check fifth wheel (lower).

• Securely mounted to frame.

• No missing or damaged parts.

• Enough grease.

• No visible space between upper and lower fifth

wheel.

• Locking jaws around the shank, not the head of

kingpin. See Figure 6.16.

• Release arm properly seated and safety latch/lock

engaged.

Figure 6.16

✓ Check fifth wheel (upper).

• Glide plate securely mounted to trailer frame.

• Kingpin not damaged.

✓ Air and electric lines to trailer.

• Electrical cord firmly plugged in and secured.

• Air-lines properly connected to glad hands, no air

leaks, properly secured with enough slack for

turns.

• All lines free from damage.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 6 – Combination Vehicles 93

✓ Sliding fifth wheel.

• Slide not damaged or parts missing.

• Properly greased.

• All locking pins present and locked in place.

• If air powered--no air leaks.

• Check that fifth wheel is not so far forward that

tractor frame will hit landing gear, or the cab hit the

trailer, during turns.

Landing Gear

✓ Fully raised, no missing parts, not bent or otherwise

damaged.

✓ Crank handle in place and secured.

✓ If power operated, no air or hydraulic leaks.

6.5.2 – Combination Vehicle Brake Check

Do these checks in addition to Section 5.3: Inspecting Air

Brake Systems. The following section explains how to

check air brakes on combination vehicles. Check the

brakes on a double or triple trailer as you would any

combination vehicle.

Check That Air Flows to All Trailers

Use the tractor parking brake and/or chock the wheels to

hold the vehicle. Wait for air pressure to reach normal,

then push in the red "trailer air supply" knob. This will

supply air to the emergency (supply) lines. Use the trailer

handbrake to provide air to the service line. Go to the rear

of the rig. Open the emergency line shut-off valve at the

rear of the last trailer. You should hear air escaping,

showing the entire system is charged. Close the

emergency line valve. Open the service line valve to check

that service pressure goes through all the trailers (this test

assumes that the trailer handbrake or the service brake

pedal is on), and then close the valve. If you do NOT hear

air escaping from both lines, check that the shut-off valves

on the trailer(s) and dolly(ies) are in the OPEN position.

You MUST have air all the way to the back for all the

brakes to work.

Test Tractor Protection Valve

Charge the trailer air-brake system. (That is, build up

normal air-pressure and push the "air supply" knob in.)

Shut the engine off. Step on and off the brake pedal

several times to reduce the air pressure in the tanks. The

trailer air supply control (also called the tractor protection

valve control) should pop out (or go from "normal" to

"emergency" position) when the air pressure falls into the

pressure range specified by the manufacturer. (Usually

within the range of 20 to 45 psi.)

If the tractor protection valve doesn't work right, an air

hose or trailer brake leak could drain all the air from the

tractor. This would cause the emergency brakes to come

on, with possible loss of control.

Test Trailer Emergency Brakes

Charge the trailer air brake system and check that the

trailer rolls freely. Then stop and pull out the trailer air

supply control (also called tractor protection valve control

or trailer emergency valve), or place it in the "emergency"

position. Pull gently on the trailer with the tractor to check

that the trailer emergency brakes are on.

Test Trailer Service Brakes

Check for normal air pressure, release the parking brakes,

move the vehicle forward slowly, and apply trailer brakes

with the hand control (trolley valve), if so equipped. You

should feel the brakes come on. This tells you the trailer

brakes are connected and working. (The trailer brakes

should be tested with the hand valve but controlled in

normal operation with the foot pedal, which applies air to

the service brakes at all wheels.)

Subsection 6.5

Test Your Knowledge

1. Which shutoff valves should be open and which

closed?

2. How can you test that air flows to all trailers?

3. How can you test the tractor protection valve?

4. How can you test the trailer emergency brakes?

5. How can you test the trailer service brakes?

These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer

all of them, re-read subsection 6.5.

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 7 – Doubles and Triples 95

Section 7

DOUBLES AND TRIPLES

This Section Covers:

✓ Pulling Double/Triple Trailers

✓ Coupling and Uncoupling

✓ Inspecting Doubles and Triples

✓ Checking Air Brakes

This section has information you need to pass the CDL

knowledge test for driving safely with double and triple

trailers. It tells about how important it is to be very careful

when driving with more than one trailer, how to couple and

uncouple correctly, and about inspecting doubles and

triples carefully. (You should also study Sections 2, 5, and

6.)

7.1 – Pulling Double/Triple Trailers

Take special care when pulling two and three trailers.

There are more things that can go wrong, and

doubles/triples are less stable than other commercial

vehicles. Some areas of concern are discussed below.

7.1.1 – Prevent Trailer from Rolling Over

To prevent trailers from rolling over, you must steer gently

and go slowly around corners, on ramps, off ramps, and

curves. A safe speed on a curve for a straight truck or a

single trailer combination vehicle may be too fast for a set

of doubles or triples.

7.1.2 – Beware of the Crack-the-whip Effect

Doubles and triples are more likely to turn over than other

combination vehicles because of the "crack-the-whip"

effect. You must steer gently when pulling trailers. The last

trailer in a combination is most likely to turn over. If you

don't understand the crack-the-whip effect, study

subsection 6.1.2 of this manual.

7.1.3 – Inspect Completely

There are more critical parts to check when you have two

or three trailers. Check them all. Follow the procedures

described later in this section.

7.1.4 – Look Far Ahead

Doubles and triples must be driven very smoothly to avoid

rollover or jackknife. Therefore, look far ahead so you can

slow down or change lanes gradually when necessary.

7.1.5 – Manage Space

Doubles and triples take up more space than other

commercial vehicles. They are not only longer, but also

need more space because they can't be turned or stopped

suddenly. Allow more following distance. Make sure you

have large enough gaps before entering or crossing traffic.

Be certain you are clear at the sides before changing

lanes.

7.1.6 – Adverse Conditions

Be more careful in adverse conditions. In bad weather,

slippery conditions, and mountain driving, you must be

especially careful if you drive double and triple bottoms.

You will have greater length and more dead axles to pull

with your drive axles than other drivers. There is more

chance for skids and loss of traction.

7.1.7 – Parking the Vehicle

Make sure you do not get in a spot you cannot pull straight

through. You need to be aware of how parking lots are

arranged in order to avoid a long and difficult escape.

7.1.8 – Antilock Braking Systems on

Converter Dollies

Converter dollies built on or after March 1, 1998, are

required to have antilock brakes. These dollies will have a

yellow lamp on the left side of the dolly.

7.2 – Coupling and Uncoupling

Knowing how to couple and uncouple correctly is basic to

safe operation of doubles and triples. Wrong coupling and

uncoupling can be very dangerous. Coupling and

uncoupling steps for doubles and triples are listed below.

7.2.1 – Coupling Twin Trailers

Secure Second (Rear) Trailer

If the second trailer doesn't have spring brakes, drive the

tractor close to the trailer, connect the emergency line,

charge the trailer air tank, and disconnect the emergency

line. This will set the trailer emergency brakes (if the slack

adjusters are correctly adjusted). Chock the wheels if you

have any doubt about the brakes.

For the safest handling on the road, the more heavily

loaded semitrailer should be in first position behind the

tractor. The lighter trailer should be in the rear.

A converter gear on a dolly is a coupling device of one or

two axles and a fifth wheel by which a semitrailer can be

coupled to the rear of a tractor-trailer combination forming

a double bottom rig. See Figure 7.1.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

96 Section 7 – Doubles and Triples

Figure 7.1

Position Converter Dolly in Front of Second

(Rear) Trailer

Release dolly brakes by opening the air tank petcock. (Or,

if the dolly has spring brakes, use the dolly parking brake

control.) If the distance is not too great, wheel the dolly into

position by hand so it is in line with the kingpin.

Or use the tractor and first semitrailer to pick up the

converter dolly:

✓ Position combination as close as possible to converter

dolly.

Move dolly to rear of first semitrailer and couple it to the

trailer.

✓ Lock pintle hook.

✓ Secure dolly support in raised position.

✓ Pull dolly into position as close as possible to nose of

the second semitrailer.

✓ Lower dolly support.

Unhook dolly from first trailer.

✓ Wheel dolly into position in front of second trailer in

line with the kingpin.

Connect Converter Dolly to Front Trailer

✓ Back first semitrailer into position in front of dolly

tongue.

✓ Hook dolly to front trailer.

✓ Lock pintle hook.

✓ Secure converter gear support in raised position.

Connect Converter Dolly to Rear Trailer

✓ Make sure trailer brakes are locked and/or wheels

chocked.

✓ Make sure trailer height is correct. (It must be slightly

lower than the center of the fifth wheel, so trailer is

raised slightly when dolly is pushed under.)

✓ Back converter dolly under rear trailer.

✓ Raise landing gear slightly off ground to prevent

damage if trailer moves.

✓ Test coupling by pulling against pin of the second

semitrailer.

✓ Make visual check of coupling. (No space between

upper and lower fifth wheel. Locking jaws closed on

kingpin.)

✓ Connect safety chains, air hoses, and light cords.

✓ Close converter dolly air tank petcock and shut-off

valves at rear of second trailer (service and

emergency shut-offs).

✓ Open shut-off valves at rear of first trailer (and on dolly

if so equipped).

✓ Raise landing gear completely.

✓ Charge trailer brakes (push "air supply" knob in), and

check for air at rear of second trailer by opening the

emergency line shut-off. If air pressure isn't there,

something is wrong and the brakes won't work.

7.2.2 – Uncoupling Twin Trailers

Uncouple Rear Trailer

✓ Park rig in a straight line on firm level ground.

✓ Apply parking brakes so rig won't move.

✓ Chock wheels of second trailer if it doesn't have spring

brakes.

✓ Lower landing gear of second semitrailer enough to

remove some weight from dolly.

✓ Close air shutoffs at rear of first semitrailer (and on

dolly if so equipped).

✓ Disconnect all dolly air and electric lines and secure

them.

✓ Release dolly brakes.

✓ Release converter dolly fifth wheel latch.

✓ Slowly pull tractor, first semitrailer, and dolly forward to

pull dolly out from under rear semitrailer.

Uncouple Converter Dolly

✓ Lower dolly landing gear.

✓ Disconnect safety chains.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 7 – Doubles and Triples 97

✓ Apply converter gear spring brakes or chock wheels.

✓ Release pintle hook on first semi-trailer.

✓ Slowly pull clear of dolly.

Never unlock the pintle hook with the dolly still under the

rear trailer. The dolly tow bar may fly up, possibly causing

injury, and making it very difficult to re-couple.

7.2.3 – Coupling and Uncoupling Triple

Trailers

Couple Tractor/First Semitrailer to

Second/Third Trailers

Couple tractor to first trailer. Use the method already

described for coupling tractor-semitrailers.

Move converter dolly into position and couple first trailer to

second trailer using the method for coupling doubles.

Triples rig is now complete.

Uncouple Triple-trailer Rig

Uncouple third trailer by pulling the dolly out, then

unhitching the dolly using the method for uncoupling

doubles.

Uncouple remainder of rig as you would any double-

bottom rig using the method already described.

7.2.4 – Coupling and Uncoupling Other

Combinations

The methods described so far apply to the more common

tractor-trailer combinations. However, there are other ways

of coupling and uncoupling the many types of truck-trailer

and tractor-trailer combinations that are in use. There are

too many to cover in this manual. You will need to learn

the correct way to couple and uncouple the vehicle(s) you

will drive according to the manufacturer and/or owner

specifications.

7.3 – Inspecting Doubles and Triples

Use the seven-step inspection procedure described in

Section 2 to inspect your combination vehicle. There are

more things to inspect on a combination vehicle than on a

single vehicle. Many of these items are simply more of

what you would find on a single vehicle. (For example,

tires, wheels, lights, reflectors, etc.) However, there are

also some new things to check. These are discussed

below.

7.3.1 – Additional Checks

Do these checks in addition to those already listed in

Section 2, Step 5: Do a Walk-around Inspection.

Coupling System Areas

✓ Check fifth wheel (lower).

• Securely mounted to frame.

• No missing or damaged parts.

• Enough grease.

• No visible space between upper and lower fifth

wheel.

• Locking jaws around the shank, not the head of

kingpin.

• Release arm properly seated and safety latch/lock

engaged.

✓ Check fifth wheel (upper).

• Glide plate securely mounted to trailer frame.

• Kingpin not damaged.

✓ Air and electric lines to trailer.

• Electrical cord firmly plugged in and secured.

• Air lines properly connected to glad hands, no air

leaks, properly secured with enough slack for

turns.

• All lines free from damage.

✓ Sliding fifth wheel.

• Slide not damaged or parts missing.

• Properly greased.

• All locking pins present and locked in place.

• If air powered, no air leaks.

• Check that fifth wheel is not so far forward that the

tractor frame will hit landing gear, or cab will hit the

trailer, during turns.

Landing Gear

✓ Fully raised, no missing parts, not bent or otherwise

damaged.

✓ Crank handle in place and secured.

✓ If power operated, no air or hydraulic leaks.

Double and Triple Trailers

✓ Shut-off valves (at rear of trailers, in service and

emergency lines).

• Rear of front trailers: OPEN.

• Rear of last trailer: CLOSED.

• Converter dolly air tank drain valve: CLOSED.

✓ Be sure air-lines are supported and glad hands are

properly connected.

✓ If spare tire is carried on converter gear (dolly), make

sure it's secured.

✓ Be sure pintle-eye of dolly is in place in pintle hook of

trailer(s).

✓ Make sure pintle hook is latched.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

98 Section 7 – Doubles and Triples

✓ Safety chains should be secured to trailer(s).

✓ Be sure light cords are firmly in sockets on trailers.

7.3.2 – Additional Things to Check during a

Walk-around Inspection

Do these checks in addition to subsection 5.3, Inspecting

Air Brake Systems.

7.4 – Doubles/Triples Air Brake Check

Check the brakes on a double or triple trailer as you would

any combination vehicle. Subsection 6.5.2 explains how to

check air brakes on combination vehicles. You must also

make the following checks on your double or triple trailers

7.4.1 – Additional Air Brake Checks

Check That Air Flows to All Trailers (Double and Triple

Trailers)

Use the tractor parking brake and/or chock the wheels to

hold the vehicle. Wait for air pressure to reach normal,

then push in the red "trailer air supply" knob. This will

supply air to the emergency (supply) lines. Use the trailer

handbrake to provide air to the service line. Go to the rear

of the rig. Open the emergency line shut-off valve at the

rear of the last trailer. You should hear air escaping,

showing the entire system is charged. Close the

emergency line valve. Open the service line valve to check

that service pressure goes through all the trailers (this test

assumes that the trailer handbrake or the service brake

pedal is on), and then close the valve. If you do NOT hear

air escaping from both lines, check that the shut-off valves

on the trailer(s) and dolly(ies) are in the OPEN position.

You MUST have air all the way to the back for all the

brakes to work.

Test Tractor Protection Valve

Charge the trailer air brake system. (That is, build up

normal air pressure and push the "air supply" knob in.)

Shut the engine off. Step on and off the brake pedal

several times to reduce the air pressure in the tanks. The

trailer air supply control (also called the tractor protection

valve control) should pop out (or go from "normal" to

"emergency" position) when the air pressure falls into the

pressure range specified by the manufacturer. (Usually

within the range of 20 to 45 psi.)

If the tractor protection valve doesn't work properly, an air

hose or trailer brake leak could drain all the air from the

tractor. This would cause the emergency brakes to come

on, with possible loss of control.

Test Trailer Emergency Brakes

Charge the trailer air brake system and check that the

trailer rolls freely. Then stop and pull out the trailer air

supply control (also called tractor protection valve control

or trailer emergency valve) or place it in the "emergency"

position. Pull gently on the trailer with the tractor to check

that the trailer emergency brakes are on.

Test Trailer Service Brakes

Check for normal air pressure, release the parking brakes,

move the vehicle forward slowly, and apply trailer brakes

with the hand control (trolley valve), if so equipped. You

should feel the brakes come on. This tells you the trailer

brakes are connected and working. (The trailer brakes

should be tested with the hand valve, but controlled in

normal operation with the foot pedal, which applies air to

the service brakes at all wheels.)

Section 7

Test Your Knowledge

1. What is a converter dolly?

2. Do converter dollies have spring brakes?

3. What three methods can you use to secure a second

trailer before coupling?

4. How do you check to make sure trailer height is

correct before coupling?

5. What do you check when making a visual check of

coupling?

6. Why should you pull a dolly out from under a trailer

before you disconnect it from the trailer in front?

7. What should you check for when inspecting the

converter dolly? The pintle hook?

8. Should the shut-off valves on the rear of the last trailer

be open or closed? On the first trailer in a set of

doubles? On the middle trailer of a set of triples?

9. How can you test that air flows to all trailers?

10. How do you know if your converter dolly is equipped

with antilock brakes?

These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer

them all, re-read Section 7.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 8 – Tank Vehicles 99

Section 8

TANK VEHICLES

This Section Covers:

✓ Inspecting Tank Vehicles

✓ Driving Tank Vehicles

✓ Safe Driving Rules

This section has information needed to pass the CDL

knowledge test for driving a tank vehicle. (You should also

study Sections 2, 5, 6, and 9). A tank endorsement is

required for certain vehicles that transport liquids or gases.

The liquid or gas does not have to be a hazardous

material.

A tank endorsement is required if your vehicle needs a

Class A or B CDL and you want to haul a liquid or liquid

gas in a tank or tanks having an individual rated capacity

of more than 119 gallons and an aggregate rated capacity

of 1000 gallons or more that is either permanently or

temporarily attached to the vehicle or the chassis.

A tank endorsement is also required for Class C vehicles

when the vehicle is used to transport hazardous materials

in liquid or gas form in the above described rated tanks.

Before loading, unloading, or driving a tanker, inspect the

vehicle. This makes sure that the vehicle is safe to carry

the liquid or gas and is safe to drive.

8.1 – Inspecting Tank Vehicles

Tank vehicles have special items that you need to check.

Tank vehicles come in many types and sizes. You need to

check the vehicle's operator manual to make sure you

know how to inspect your tank vehicle.

8.1.1 – Leaks

On all tank vehicles, the most important item to check for

is leaks. Check under and around the vehicle for signs of

any leaking. Don't carry liquids or gases in a leaking tank.

To do so is a crime. You will be cited and prevented from

driving further. You may also be liable for the clean-up of

any spill. In general, check the following:

✓ Check the tank's body or shell for dents or leaks.

✓ Check the intake, discharge, and cut-off valves. Make

sure the valves are in the correct position before

loading, unloading, or moving the vehicle.

✓ Check pipes, connections, and hoses for leaks,

especially around joints.

✓ Check manhole covers and vents. Make sure the

covers have gaskets and they close correctly. Keep

the vents clear so they work correctly.

8.1.2 – Check Special Purpose Equipment

If your vehicle has any of the following equipment, make

sure it works:

✓ Vapor recovery kits.

✓ Grounding and bonding cables.

✓ Emergency shut-off systems.

✓ Built in fire extinguisher.

Never drive a tank vehicle with open valves or manhole

covers.

8.1.3 – Special Equipment

Check the emergency equipment required for your vehicle.

Find out what equipment you're required to carry and

make sure you have it (and it works).

8.2 – Driving Tank Vehicles

Hauling liquids in tanks requires special skills because of

the high center of gravity and liquid movement. See Figure

8.1.

Figure 8.1

8.2.1 – High Center of Gravity

High center of gravity means that much of the load's

weight is carried high up off the road. This makes the

vehicle top-heavy and easy to roll over. Liquid tankers are

especially easy to roll over. Tests have shown that tankers

can turn over at the speed limits posted for curves. Take

highway curves and on ramp/off ramp curves well below

the posted speeds.

8.2.2 – Danger of Surge

Liquid surge results from movement of the liquid in partially

filled tanks. This movement can have bad effects on

handling. For example, when coming to a stop, the liquid

will surge back and forth. When the wave hits the end of

the tank, it tends to push the truck in the direction the wave

is moving. If the truck is on a slippery surface such as ice,

the wave can shove a stopped truck out into an

intersection. The driver of a liquid tanker must be very

familiar with the handling of the vehicle.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

100 Section 8 – Tank Vehicles

8.2.3 – Bulkheads

Some liquid tanks are divided into several smaller tanks by

bulkheads. When loading and unloading the smaller tanks,

the driver must pay attention to weight distribution. Don't

put too much weight on the front or rear of the vehicle.

8.2.4 – Baffled Tanks

Baffled liquid tanks have bulkheads in them with holes that

let the liquid flow through. The baffles help to control the

forward and backward liquid surge. Side-to-side surge can

still occur. This can cause a roll over.

8.2.5 – Un-baffled Tanks

Un-baffled liquid tankers (sometimes called "smooth bore"

tanks) have nothing inside to slow down the flow of the

liquid. Therefore, forward-and-back surge is very strong.

Un-baffled tanks are usually those that transport food

products (milk, for example). (Sanitation regulations forbid

the use of baffles because of the difficulty in cleaning the

inside of the tank.) Be extremely cautious (slow and

careful) in driving smooth bore tanks, especially when

starting and stopping.

8.2.6 – Outage

Never load a cargo tank totally full. Liquids expand as they

warm and you must leave room for the expanding liquid.

This is called "outage." Since different liquids expand by

different amounts, they require different amounts of

outage. You must know the outage requirement when

hauling liquids in bulk.

8.2.7 – How Much to Load?

A full tank of dense liquid (such as some acids) may

exceed legal weight limits. For that reason, you may often

only partially fill tanks with heavy liquids. The amount of

liquid to load into a tank depends on:

✓ The amount the liquid will expand in transit.

✓ The weight of the liquid.

✓ Legal weight limits.

8.3 – Safe Driving Rules

In order to drive tank vehicles safely, you must remember

to follow all the safe driving rules. A few of these rules are:

8.3.1 – Drive Smoothly

Because of the high center of gravity and the surge of the

liquid, you must start, slow down, and stop very smoothly.

Also, make smooth turns and lane changes.

8.3.2 – Controlling Surge

Keep a steady pressure on the brakes. Do not release too

soon when coming to a stop. Brake far in advance of a

stop and increase your following distance.

If you must make a quick stop to avoid a crash, use

controlled or stab braking. If you do not remember how to

stop using these methods, review subsection 2.17.2. Also,

remember that if you steer quickly while braking, your

vehicle may roll over.

8.3.3 – Curves

Slow down before curves, then accelerate slightly through

the curve. The posted speed for a curve may be too fast

for a tank vehicle.

8.3.4 – Stopping Distance

Keep in mind how much space you need to stop your

vehicle. Remember that wet roads double the normal

stopping distance. Empty tank vehicles may take longer to

stop than full ones.

8.3.5 – Skids

Don't over steer, over accelerate, or over brake. If you do,

your vehicle may skid. On tank trailers, if your drive wheels

or trailer wheels begin to skid, your vehicle may jackknife.

When any vehicle starts to skid, you must take action to

restore traction to the wheels.

Section 8

Test Your Knowledge

1. How are bulkheads different than baffles?

2. Should a tank vehicle take curves, on ramps, or off

ramps at the posted speed limits?

3. How are smooth bore tankers different to drive than

those with baffles?

4. What three things determine how much liquid you can

load?

5. What is outage?

6. How can you help control surge?

7. What two reasons make special care necessary when

driving tank vehicles?

These questions may be on the test. If you can't answer

them all, re-read Section 8.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 9 – Hazardous Materials 101

Section 9

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

This Section Covers:

✓ The Intent of the Regulations

✓ Bulk Tank Loading, Unloading, and

Marking

✓ Driver Responsibilities

✓ Driving and Parking Rules

✓ Communications Rules

✓ Emergencies

✓ Loading and Unloading

Hazardous materials are products that pose a risk to

health, safety, and property during transportation. The

term often is shortened to HAZMAT, which you may see

on road signs, or to HM in government regulations.

Hazardous materials include explosives, various types of

gas, solids, flammable and combustible liquid, and other

materials. Because of the risks involved and the potential

consequences these risks impose, all levels of government

regulate the handling of hazardous materials.

The Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) is found in

parts 171 - 180 of title 49 of the Code of Federal

Regulations. The common reference for these regulations

is 49 CFR 171 – 180.

The Hazardous Materials Table in the regulations contains

a list of these items. However, this list is not all-inclusive.

Whether or not a material is considered hazardous is

based on its characteristics and the shipper's decision on

whether or not the material meets a definition of a

hazardous material in the regulations. The regulations

require vehicles transporting certain types or quantities of

hazardous materials to display diamond-shaped, square

on point, warning signs called placards.

This section is designed to assist you in understanding

your role and responsibilities in hauling hazardous

materials. Due to the constantly changing nature of

government regulations, it is impossible to guarantee

absolute accuracy of the materials in this section. An up-

to-date copy of the complete regulations is essential for

you to have. Included in these regulations is a complete

glossary of terms.

You must have a commercial driver license (CDL) with a

hazardous materials endorsement before you drive any

size vehicle that is used to transport hazardous material as

defined in 49 CFR 383.5. You must pass a written test

about the regulations and requirements to get this

endorsement.

Everything you need to know to pass the written test is in

this section. However, this is only a beginning. Most

drivers need to know much more on the job. You can learn

more by reading and understanding the federal and state

rules applicable to hazardous materials, as well as,

attending hazardous materials training courses. Your

employer, colleges and universities, and various

associations usually offer these courses. You can get

copies of the Federal Regulations (49 CFR) through your

local Government Printing Office bookstore and various

industry publishers. Union or company offices often have

copies of the rules for driver use. Find out where you can

get your own copy to use on the job.

The regulations require training and testing for all drivers

involved in transporting hazardous materials. Your

employer or a designated representative is required to

provide this training and testing. Hazardous materials

employers are required to keep a record of training for

each employee as long as that employee is working with

hazardous materials, and for 90 days thereafter. The

regulations require that hazardous materials employees be

trained and tested at least once every three years.

All drivers must be trained in the security risks of

hazardous materials transportation. This training must

include how to recognize and respond to possible security

threats.

The regulations also require that drivers have special

training before driving a vehicle transporting certain

flammable gas materials or highway route-controlled

quantities of radioactive materials. In addition, drivers

transporting cargo tanks and portable tanks must receive

specialized training. Each driver’s employer or his or her

designated representative must provide such training.

Some locations require permits to transport certain

explosives or bulk hazardous wastes. States and counties

also may require drivers to follow special hazardous

materials routes. The federal government may require

permits or exemptions for special hazardous materials

cargo such as rocket fuel. Find out about permits,

exemptions, and special routes for the places you drive.

9.1 – The Intent of the Regulations

9.1.1 – Contain the Material

Transporting hazardous materials can be risky. The

regulations are intended to protect you, those around you,

and the environment. They tell shippers how to package

the materials safely and drivers how to load, transport, and

unload the material. These are called "containment rules."

9.1.2 – Communicate the Risk

To communicate the risk, shippers must warn drivers and

others about the material's hazards. The regulations

require shippers to put hazard warning labels on

packages, provide proper shipping papers, emergency

response information, and placards. These steps

communicate the hazard to the shipper, the carrier, and

the driver.

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102 Section 9 – Hazardous Materials

9.1.3 – Assure Safe Drivers and Equipment

In order to get a hazardous materials endorsement on a

CDL, you must pass a written test about transporting

hazardous materials. To pass the test, you must know how

to:

✓ Identify what are hazardous materials.

✓ Safely load shipments.

✓ Properly placard your vehicle in accordance with the

rules.

✓ Safely transport shipments.

Learn the rules and follow them. Following the rules

reduces the risk of injury from hazardous materials. Taking

shortcuts by breaking rules is unsafe. Non-compliance with

regulations can result in fines and jail.

Inspect your vehicle before and during each trip. Law

enforcement officers may stop and inspect your vehicle.

When stopped, they may check your shipping papers,

vehicle placards, and the hazardous materials

endorsement on your driver license, and your knowledge

of hazardous materials.

9.2 – Hazardous Materials Transportation—

Who Does What

9.2.1 – The Shipper

✓ Sends products from one place to another by truck,

rail, vessel, or airplane.

✓ Uses the hazardous materials regulations to determine

the product’s:

• Identification number

• Proper shipping name.

• Hazard class.

• Packing group.

• Correct packaging.

• Correct label and markings.

• Correct placards.

✓ Must package, mark, and label the materials; prepare

shipping papers; provide emergency response

information; and supply placards.

✓ Certify on the shipping paper that the shipment has

been prepared according to the rules (unless you are

pulling cargo tanks supplied by you or your employer).

9.2.2 – The Carrier

✓ Takes the shipment from the shipper to its destination.

✓ Prior to transportation, checks that the shipper

correctly described, marked, labeled, and otherwise

prepared the shipment for transportation.

✓ Refuses improper shipments.

✓ Reports accidents and incidents involving hazardous

materials to the proper government agency.

9.2.3 – The Driver

✓ Makes sure the shipper has identified, marked, and

labeled the hazardous materials properly.

✓ Refuses leaking packages and shipments.

✓ Placards vehicle when loading, if required.

✓ Safely transports the shipment without delay.

✓ Follows all special rules about transporting hazardous

materials.

✓ Keeps hazardous materials shipping papers and

emergency response information in the proper place.

9.3 – Communication Rules

9.3.1 – Definitions

Some words and phrases have special meanings when

talking about hazardous materials. Some of these may

differ from meanings you are used to. The words and

phrases in this section may be on your test. The meanings

of other important words are in the glossary at the end of

Section 9.

A material's hazard class reflects the risks associated with

it. There are nine different hazard classes. The types of

materials included in these nine classes are in Figure 9.1.

A shipping paper describes the hazardous materials being

transported. Shipping orders, bills of lading, and manifests

are all shipping papers. Figure 9.6 shows an example

shipping paper.

After an accident or hazardous materials spill or leak, you

may be injured and unable to communicate the hazards of

the materials you are transporting. Firefighters and police

can prevent or reduce the amount of damage or injury at

the scene if they know what hazardous materials are being

carried. Your life, and the lives of others, may depend on

quickly locating the hazardous materials shipping papers.

For that reason the rules require:

✓ Shippers to describe hazardous materials correctly

and include an emergency response telephone

number on shipping papers.

✓ Carriers and drivers to quickly identify hazardous

materials shipping papers or keep them on top of other

shipping papers and keep the required emergency

response information with the shipping papers.

✓ Drivers to keep hazardous materials shipping papers:

• In a pouch on the driver's door, or

• In clear view within immediate reach while the seat

belt is fastened while driving, or

• On the driver's seat when out of the vehicle.

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Section 9 – Hazardous Materials 103

Hazardous Materials Class

Class

Division

Name of Class or

Division

Examples

1.1

1.2

1.3

1.4

1.5

1.6

Mass Explosion

Projection Hazard

Fire Hazard

Minor Explosion

Very Insensitive

Extremely Insensitive

Dynamite

Flares

Display Fireworks

Ammunition

Blasting Agents

Explosive Devices

2.1

2.2

2.3

Flammable Gases

Non-Flammable Gases

Poisonous/Toxic Gases

Propane

Helium

Fluorine, Compressed

Flammable Liquids

Gasoline

4.1

4.2

4.3

Flammable Solids

Spontaneously

Combustible

Dangerous When Wet

Ammonium Picrate,

Wetted

White Phosphorus

Sodium

5.1

5.2

Oxidizers

Organic Peroxides

Ammonium Nitrate

Methyl Ethyl Ketone

Peroxide

6.1

6.2

Poison (Toxic Material)

Infectious Substances

Potassium Cyanide

Anthrax Virus

Radioactive

Uranium

Corrosives

Battery Fluid

Miscellaneous Hazardous

Materials

Polychlorinated Biphenyls

(PCB)

None

ORM-D (Other Regulated

Material-Domestic)

Food Flavorings,

Medicines

Combustible Liquids

Fuel Oil

Figure 9.1

9.3.2 – Package Labels

Shippers put diamond-shaped hazard warning labels on

most hazardous materials packages. These labels inform

others of the hazard. If the diamond label won't fit on the

package, shippers may put the label on a tag securely

attached to the package. For example, compressed gas

cylinders that will not hold a label will have tags or decals.

Labels look like the examples in Figure 9.2.

Figure 9.2

9.3.3 – Lists of Regulated Products

Placards

Placards are used to warn others of hazardous materials.

Placards are signs put on the outside of a vehicle and on

bulk packages, which identify the hazard class of the

cargo. A placarded vehicle must have at least four

identical placards.

They are put on the front, rear, and both sides of the

vehicle. See Figure 9.3. Placards must be readable from

all four directions. They are at least 250mm 9.84 inches

square, square-on-point, in a diamond shape. Cargo tanks

and other bulk packaging display the identification number

of their contents on placards or orange panels or white

square-on-point displays that are the same size as

placards.

Identification Numbers

Identification numbers are a four-digit code used by first

responders to identify hazardous materials. An

identification number may be used to identify more than

one chemical. The letters “NA or “UN” will precede the

identification number. The United States Department of

Transportation’s Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)

lists the chemicals and the identification numbers assigned

to them.

There are three main lists used by shippers, carriers, and

drivers when trying to identify hazardous materials. Before

transporting a material, look for its name on three lists.

Some materials are on all lists, others on only one. Always

check the following lists:

✓ Section 172.101, the Hazardous Materials Table.

✓ Appendix A to Section 172.101, the List of Hazardous

Substances and Reportable Quantities.

✓ Appendix B to Section 172.101, the List of Marine

Pollutants.

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104 Section 9 – Hazardous Materials

Figure 9.3

The Hazardous Materials Table

Figure 9.4 shows part of the Hazardous Materials Table.

Column 1 tells which shipping mode(s) the entry affects

and other information concerning the shipping description.

The next five columns show each material's shipping

name, hazard class or division, identification number,

packaging group, and required labels.

Six different symbols may appear in Column 1 of the table.

(+) Shows the proper shipping name, hazard class, and

packing group to use, even if the material doesn't meet

the hazard class definition.

(A) Means the hazardous material described in Column 2

is subject to the HMR only when offered or intended

for transport by air unless it is a hazardous substance

or hazardous waste.

(W) Means the hazardous material described in Column 2

is subject to the HMR only when offered or intended

for transportation by water unless it is a hazardous

substance, hazardous waste, or marine pollutant

(D) Means the proper shipping name is appropriate for

describing materials for domestic transportation but

may not be proper for international transportation.

(I) Identifies a proper shipping name that is used to

describe materials in international transportation. A

different shipping name may be used when only

domestic transportation is involved.

(G) Means this hazardous material described in Column 2

is a generic shipping name. A generic shipping name

must be accompanied by a technical name on the

shipping paper. A technical name is a specific

chemical that makes the product hazardous

Column 2 lists the proper shipping names and descriptions

of regulated materials. Entries are in alphabetical order so

you can more quickly find the right entry. The table shows

proper shipping names in regular type. The shipping paper

must show proper shipping names. Names shown in italics

are not proper shipping names.

Column 3 shows a material's hazard class or division, or

the entry "Forbidden." Never transport a "Forbidden"

material. Placard hazardous materials shipments based on

the quantity and hazard class. You can decide which

placards to use if you know these three things:

✓ Material's hazard class.

✓ Amount being shipped.

✓ Amount of all hazardous materials of all classes on

your vehicle.

Column 4 lists the identification number for each proper

shipping name. Identification numbers are preceded by the

letters “UN”, "NA." or “ID”. The letters "NA" are associated

with proper shipping names that are only used within the

United States and to and from Canada. The letters “ID” are

associated with proper shipping names recognized by the

International Civil Aviation Organization (IACO) Technical

instructions for transportation by air. The identification

number must appear on the shipping paper as part of the

shipping description and also appear on the package. It

also must appear on cargo tanks and other bulk

packaging. Police and firefighters use this number to

quickly identify the hazardous materials.

Column 5 shows the packing group (in Roman numeral)

assigned to a material.

Column 6 shows the hazard warning label(s) shippers

must put on packages of hazardous materials. Some

products require use of more than one label due to a

multiple hazards being present.

Column 7 lists the additional (special) provisions that apply

to this material. When there is an entry in this column, you

must refer to the federal regulations for specific

information. The numbers 1-6 in this column mean the

hazardous material is a poison inhalation hazard (PIH).

PIH materials have special requirements for shipping

papers, marking, and placards.

Column 8 is a three-part column showing the section

numbers covering the packaging requirements for each

hazardous material.

Note: Columns 9 and 10 do not apply to transportation by

highway.

Appendix A to 49 CFR 172.101 - The List of Hazardous

Substances and Reportable Quantities.

The DOT and the EPA want to know about spills of

hazardous substances. They are named in the List of

Hazardous Substances and Reportable Quantities. See

Figure 9.5. Column 2 of the list shows each product's

reportable quantity (RQ). When these materials are being

transported in a reportable quantity or greater in one

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Section 9 – Hazardous Materials 105

Figure 9.4

package, the shipper displays the letters RQ on the

shipping paper and package. The letters RQ may appear

before or after the basic description. You or your employer

must report any spill of these materials, which occurs in a

reportable quantity.

If the words INHALATION HAZARD appear on the

shipping paper or package, the rules require display of the

POISON INHALATION HAZARD or POISON GAS

placards, as appropriate. These placards must be used in

addition to other placards, which may be required by the

product's hazard class. Always display the hazard class

placard and the POISON INHALATION HAZARD placard,

even for small amounts.

Appendix B to 49 CFR 172.101 – List of Marine Pollutants

Appendix B is a listing of chemicals that are toxic to marine

life. For highway transportation, this list is only used for

chemicals in a container with a capacity of 119 gallons or

more without a placard or label as specified by the HMR.

Any bulk packages of a Marine Pollutant must display the

Marine Pollutant marking (white triangle with a fish and an

“X” through the fish). This marking (it is not a placard) must

also be displayed on the outside of the vehicle. In

addition, a notation must be made on the shipping papers

near the description of the material: “Marine Pollutant”.

Figure 9.5

9.3.4 – The Shipping Paper

The shipping paper shown in Figure 9.6 describes a

shipment. A shipping paper for hazardous materials must

include:

✓ Page numbers if the shipping paper has more than

one page. The first page must tell the total number of

pages. For example, "Page 1 of 4".

✓ A proper shipping description for each hazardous

material.

✓ A shipper's certification, signed by the shipper, saying

they prepared the shipment according to the

regulations.

Shipping Paper

TO:

ABC Corporation

88 Valley Street

Anywhere, VA

FROM:

DEF Corporation

55 Mountain Street

Nowhere, CO

Quantity

Description

Weight

1 cylinder

(“RQ”

means that

this is a reportable

quantity.)

UN1076, Phosgene,

2.3, Poison,

Inhalation Hazard,

Zone A

(UN1076 is the

Identification Number

from Column 4 of the

Hazardous materials

Table.

Phosgene is the

proper shipping name

from Column 2 of the

Hazardous Materials

Table.

2.3 is the Hazard

Class from Column 3

of the Hazardous

Materials Table.)

25 lbs

This is to certify that the above-named materials are properly

classified, described, packaged, marked and labeled, and are

in proper condition for transportation according to the

applicable regulations of the Department of Transportation.

Shipper:

Per:

Date:

DEF Corporation

Smith

October 15, 2003

Carrier:

Per:

Date:

Safety First

Special Instructions: 24 hour Emergency Contact, John

Smith 1-800-555-5555

Figure 9.6

49 CFR 172.101 Hazardous Materials Table

Symbols

Hazardous

Materials

Description &

Proper Shipping

Names

Hazard

Class or

Division

Identification

Numbers

Label

Codes

Special

Provisions

(172.102)

Packaging (173.***)

Exceptions

Non-

Bulk

(1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

(5)

(6)

(7)

(8A)

(8B)

(8C)

Acetaldehyde

ammonia

UN1841

III

IB8, IP3, IP7,

T1, TP33

155

204

240

Appendix A to 49 CFR 172.101

List of Hazardous Substances

and Reportable Quantities

Hazardous Substances

Reportable Quantity (RQ)

Pounds (Kilograms)

Phenyl mercaptan

100 (45.4)

Phenylmercury acetate

100 (45.4)

Phenylthiourea

100 (45.4)

Phorate

10 (4.54)

Phosgene

10 (4.54)

Phosphine

100 (45.4)

Phosphoric acid

5,000 (2270)

Phosphoric acid, diethyl

4-nitrophenyl ester

100 (45.4)

Phosphoric acid, lead (2+)

Salt (2:3)salt

10 (4.54)

*Spills of 10 pounds or more must be reported.

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106 Section 9 – Hazardous Materials

9.3.5 – The Item Description

If a shipping paper describes both hazardous and non-

hazardous products, the hazardous materials must be:

✓ Entered first.

✓ Highlighted in a contrasting color, OR.

✓ Identified by an "X" placed before the shipping

description (ID#, Shipping Name, Hazard Class,

Packing Group) in a column captioned "HM". The

letters "RQ" may be used instead of "X" if a reportable

quantity needs to be identified.

The basic description of hazardous materials includes the

identification number, proper shipping name, hazard class

or division, and the packing group, if any, in that order. The

packing group is displayed in Roman numerals and may

be preceded by "PG".

Identification number, shipping name, and hazard class

must not be abbreviated unless specifically authorized in

the hazardous materials regulations. The description must

also show:

✓ The total quantity and unit of measure.

✓ The number and type of packages (example: “6

Drums”).

✓ The letters RQ, if a reportable quantity.

✓ If the letters RQ appear, the name of the hazardous

substance (if not included in the shipping name).

✓ For all materials with the letter “G” (Generic) in Column

1, the technical name of the hazardous material.

Shipping papers also must list an emergency response

telephone number (unless excepted). The emergency

response telephone number is the responsibility of the

shipper. It can be used by emergency responders to obtain

information about any hazardous materials involved in a

spill or fire. The telephone number must be:

✓ The number of the person offering the hazardous

material for transportation (if the shipper/offeror is the

emergency response information (ERI) provider); or

✓ The number of an agency or organization capable of,

and accepting responsibility for, providing the detailed

information required by paragraph (a)(2) of this

section. The person who is registered with the ERI

provider must be identified by name, or contract

number or other unique identifier assigned by the ERI

provider, on the shipping paper

Shippers also must provide emergency response

information to the motor carrier for each hazardous

material being shipped. The emergency response

information must be able to be used away from the motor

vehicle and must provide information on how to safely

handle incidents involving the material. At a minimum, it

must include the following information:

✓ The basic description and technical name;

✓ Immediate hazards to health;

✓ Risks of fire or explosion;

✓ Immediate precautions to be taken in the event of an

accident or incident;

✓ Immediate methods for handling fires;

✓ Initial methods for handling spills or leaks in the

absence of fires; and

✓ Preliminary first aid measures

Such information can be on the shipping paper or some

other document that includes the basic description and

technical name of the hazardous material. Or, it may be in

a guidance book such as the Emergency Response

Guidebook (ERG). Motor carriers may assist shippers by

keeping an ERG on each vehicle carrying hazardous

materials. The driver must provide the emergency

response information to any federal, state, or local

authority responding to a hazardous materials incident or

investigating one.

Total quantity and number & type of packages must

appear before or after the basic description. The

packaging type and the unit of measurement may be

abbreviated. For example:

10 ctns. UN1263, Paint, 3, PG II, 500 lbs.

The shipper of hazardous wastes must put the word

WASTE before the proper shipping name of the material

on the shipping paper (hazardous waste manifest). For

example:

UN1090, Waste Acetone, 3, PG II.

A non-hazardous material may not be described by using

a hazard class or an identification number.

Shippers must keep a copy of shipping papers (or an

electronic image) for a period of 2 years (3 years for

hazardous waste) after the material is accepted by the

initial carrier.

If one provides a carrier service only and is not the

originator of the shipment, a carrier is required to keep a

copy of the shipping paper (or an electronic image) for a

period of 1 year.

IMPORTANT NOTE: To view complete regulatory

requirements for the transportation of hazardous materials

one should refer to the Code of Federal Regulations, Title

49, Parts 171-185.

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Section 9 – Hazardous Materials 107

9.3.6 – Shipper's Certification

When the shipper packages hazardous materials, he/she

certifies that the package has been prepared according to

the rules. The signed shipper's certification appears on the

original shipping paper. The only exceptions are when a

shipper is a private carrier transporting their own product

and when the package is provided by the carrier (for

example, a cargo tank).

Unless a package is clearly unsafe or does not comply

with the HMR, you may accept the shipper's certification

concerning proper packaging. Some carriers have

additional rules about transporting hazardous materials.

Follow your employer's rules when accepting shipments.

9.3.7 – Package Markings and Labels

Shippers print required markings directly on the package,

an attached label, or tag. An important package marking is

the name of the hazardous material. It is the same name

as the one on the shipping paper. The requirements for

marking vary by package size and material being

transported. When required, the shipper will put the

following on the package:

✓ The name and address of shipper or consignee.

✓ The hazardous material's shipping name and

identification number.

✓ The labels required.

It is a good idea to compare the shipping paper to the

markings and labels. Always make sure that the shipper

shows the correct basic description on the shipping paper

and verifies that the proper labels are shown on the

packages. If you are not familiar with the material, ask the

shipper to contact your office.

If rules require it, the shipper will put RQ, MARINE

POLLUTANT, BIOHAZARD, HOT, or INHALATION-

HAZARD on the package. Packages with liquid containers

inside will also have package orientation markings with the

arrows pointing in the correct upright direction. The labels

used always reflect the hazard class of the product. If a

package needs more than one label, the labels must be

close together, near the proper shipping name.

9.3.8 – Recognizing Hazardous Materials

Learn to recognize shipments of hazardous materials. To

find out if the shipment includes hazardous materials, look

at the shipping paper. Does it have:

✓ An entry with a proper shipping name, hazard class,

and identification number?

✓ A highlighted entry, or one with an X or RQ in the

hazardous materials column?

Other clues suggesting hazardous materials:

✓ What business is the shipper in? Paint dealer?

Chemical supply? Scientific supply house? Pest

control or agricultural supplier? Explosives,

munitions, or fireworks dealer?

✓ Are there tanks with diamond labels or placards on the

premises?

✓ What type of package is being shipped? Cylinders and

drums are often used for hazardous materials

shipments.

✓ Is a hazard class label, proper shipping name, or

identification number on the package?

✓ Are there any handling precautions?

9.3.9 – Hazardous Waste Manifest

When transporting hazardous wastes, you must sign by

hand and carry a Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifest. The

name and EPA registration number of the shippers,

carriers, and destination must appear on the manifest.

Shippers must prepare, date, and sign by hand the

manifest. Treat the manifest as a shipping paper when

transporting the waste. Only give the waste shipment to

another registered carrier or disposal/treatment facility.

Each carrier transporting the shipment must sign by hand

the manifest. After you deliver the shipment, keep your

copy of the manifest. Each copy must have all needed

signatures and dates, including those of the person to

whom you delivered the waste.

9.3.10 – Placarding

Attach the appropriate placards to the vehicle before you

drive it. You are only allowed to move an improperly

placarded vehicle during an emergency, in order to protect

life or property.

Placards must appear on both sides and both ends of the

vehicle. Each placard must be:

✓ Easily seen from the direction it faces.

✓ Placed so the words or numbers are level and read

from left to right.

✓ At least three inches away from any other markings.

✓ Kept clear of attachments or devices such as ladders,

doors, and tarpaulins.

✓ Kept clean and undamaged so that the color, format,

and message are easily seen.

✓ Be affixed to a background of contrasting color.

✓ The use of “Drive Safely” and other slogans is

prohibited.

✓ The front placard may be on the front of the tractor or

the front of the trailer.

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108 Section 9 – Hazardous Materials

To decide which placards to use, you need to know:

✓ The hazard class of the materials.

✓ The amount of hazardous materials shipped.

✓ The total weight of all classes of hazardous materials

in your vehicle.

9.3.11 – Placard Tables

There are two placard tables, Table 1 and Table 2. Table 1

materials must be placarded whenever any amount is

transported. See Figure 9.7.

Except for bulk packaging, the hazard classes in Table 2

need placards only if the total amount transported is 1,001

pounds or more including the package. Add the amounts

from all shipping papers for all the Table 2 products you

have on board. See Figure 9.8.

Placard Table 1

Any Amount

If Your Vehicle Contains

Any Amount of:

Placard As:

1.1 Mass Explosives

Explosives 1.1

1.2 Project Hazards

Explosives 1.2

1.3 Mass Fire Hazards

Explosives 1.3

2.3 Poisonous/Toxic Gases

Poison Gas

4.3 Dangerous When Wet

Dangerous When Wet

5.2 (Organic Peroxide,

Type B, liquid or solid,

Temperature controlled)

Organic Peroxide

6.1 (Inhalation hazard zone

A & B only)

Poison/toxic inhalation

7 (Radioactive Yellow III

label only)

Radioactive

Figure 9.7

You may use DANGEROUS placards instead of separate

placards for each Table 2 hazard class when:

✓ You have 1,001 pounds or more of two or more Table

2 hazard classes, requiring different placards, and

✓ You have not loaded 2,205 pounds or more of any

Table 2 hazard class material at any one place. (You

must use the specific placard for this material.)

✓ The dangerous placard is an option, not a

requirement. You can always placard for the materials.

If the words INHALATION HAZARD are on the shipping

paper or package, you must display POISON GAS or

POISON INHALATION placards in addition to any other

placards needed by the product's hazard class. The 1,000-

pound exception does not apply to these materials.

Materials with a secondary hazard of dangerous when wet

must display the DANGEROUS WHEN WET placard in

addition to any other placards needed by the product’s

hazard class. The 1,000-pound exception to placarding

does not apply to these materials.

Placards used to identify the primary or subsidiary hazard

class of a material must have the hazard class or division

number displayed in the lower corner of the placard.

Permanently affixed subsidiary hazard placards without

the hazard class number may be used as long as they stay

within color specifications.

Placards may be displayed for hazardous materials even if

not required so long as the placard identifies the hazard of

the material being transported.

Bulk packaging is a single container with a capacity

greater than 119 gallons. A bulk package, and a vehicle

transporting a bulk package, must be placarded, even if it

only has the residue of a hazardous material. Certain bulk

packages only have to be placarded on the two opposite

sides or may display labels. All other bulk packages must

be placarded on all four sides.

Placard Table 2

1,001 Pounds Or More

Category of Material

(Hazard class or division number and

additional description as appropriate)

Placard Name

1.4 Minor Explosion

Explosives 1.4

1.5 Very Insensitive

Explosives 1.5

1.6 Extremely Insensitive

Explosives 1.6

2.1 Flammable Gases

Flammable Gas

2.2 Non- Flammable Gases

Non-Flammable

Gas.

3 Flammable Liquids

Flammable

Combustible Liquid

Combustible*

4.1 Flammable Solids

Flammable Solid

4.2 Spontaneously Combustible

Spontaneously

Combustible

5.1 Oxidizers

Oxidizer

5.2 (other than organic peroxide,

Type B, liquid or solid, Temperature

Controlled)

Organic Peroxide

6.1 (other than inhalation hazard zone

A or B)

Poison

6.2 Infectious Substances

(None)

8 Corrosives

Corrosive

9 Miscellaneous Hazardous Materials

Class 9**

ORM-D

(None)

* FLAMMABLE may be used in place of a

COMBUSTIBLE on a cargo tank or portable tank.

** Class 9 Placard is not required for domestic

transportation.

Figure 9.8

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 9 – Hazardous Materials 109

Subsections 9.1, 9.2, and 9.3

Test Your Knowledge

1. Shippers package in order to (fill in the blank) the

material.

2. Driver placard their vehicle to (fill in the blank) the risk.

3. What three things do you need to know to decide

which placards (if any) you need?

4. A hazardous materials identification number must

appear on the (fill in the blank) and on the (fill in the

blank). The identification number must also appear on

cargo tanks and other bulk packaging.

5. Where must you keep shipping papers describing

hazardous materials?

These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer

them all, re-read subsections 9.1, 9.2 and 9.3.

9.4 – Loading and Unloading

Do all you can to protect containers of hazardous

materials. Don't use any tools, which might damage

containers or other packaging during loading. Don't use

hooks.

9.4.1 – General Loading Requirements

✓ Before loading or unloading, set the parking brake.

Make sure the vehicle will not move.

Many products become more hazardous when exposed to

heat. Load hazardous materials away from heat sources.

✓ Watch for signs of leaking or damaged containers:

LEAKS SPELL TROUBLE! Do not transport leaking

packages. Depending on the material, you, your truck,

and others could be in danger. It is illegal to move a

vehicle with leaking hazardous materials.

✓ Containers of hazardous materials must be braced to

prevent movement of the packages during

transportation.

✓ No Smoking. When loading or unloading hazardous

materials, keep fire away. Don't let people smoke

nearby. Never smoke around:

• Class 1 (Explosives)

• Class 2.1 (Flammable Gas)

• Class 3 (Flammable Liquids)

• Class 4 (Flammable Solids)

• Class 5 (Oxidizers)

Secure Against Movement

Brace containers so they will not fall, slide, or bounce

around during transportation. Be very careful when loading

containers that have valves or other fittings. All hazardous

materials packages must be secured during transportation.

After loading, do not open any package during your trip.

Never transfer hazardous materials from one package to

another while in transit. You may empty a cargo tank, but

do not empty any other package while it is on the vehicle.

Cargo Heater Rules

There are special cargo heater rules for loading:

✓ Class 1 (Explosives)

✓ Class 2.1 (Flammable Gas)

✓ Class 3 (Flammable Liquids)

The rules usually forbid use of cargo heaters, including

automatic cargo heater/air conditioner units. Unless you

have read all the related rules, don't load the above

products in a cargo space that has a heater.

Use Closed Cargo Space

You cannot have overhang or tailgate loads of:

✓ Class 1 (Explosives)

✓ Class 4 (Flammable Solids)

✓ Class 5 (Oxidizers)

You must load these hazardous materials into a closed

cargo space unless all packages are:

✓ Fire and water resistant.

✓ Covered with a fire- and water-resistant tarp.

Precautions for Specific Hazards

Class 1 (Explosives) Materials

✓ Turn your engine off before loading or unloading any

explosives. Then check the cargo space. You must:

• Disable cargo heaters. Disconnect heater power

sources and drain heater fuel tanks.

• Make sure there are no sharp points that might

damage cargo. Look for bolts, screws, nails,

broken side panels, and broken floorboards.

• Use a floor lining with Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3.

The floors must be tight, and the liner must be

either non-metallic material or non-ferrous metal.

(Non-ferrous metals are any metal that does not

contain iron or iron alloys).

✓ Use extra care to protect explosives. Never use hooks

or other metal tools. Never drop, throw, or roll

packages. Protect explosive packages from other

cargo that might cause damage.

✓ Do not transfer a Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3 from one

vehicle to another on a public roadway except in an

emergency. If safety requires an emergency transfer,

set out red warning reflectors, flags, or electric

lanterns. You must warn others on the road.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

110 Section 9 – Hazardous Materials

✓ Never transport damaged packages of explosives. Do

not take a package that shows any dampness or oily

stain.

✓ Do not transport Division 1.1 or 1.2 in vehicle

combinations if:

• There is a marked or placarded cargo tank in the

combination.

• The other vehicle in the combination contains:

➢ Division 1.1 A (Initiating Explosives).

➢ Packages of Class 7 (Radioactive) materials

labeled "Yellow III."

➢ Division 2.3 (Poisonous Gas) Hazard zone A

or B or Division 6.1 (Poisonous) materials

Hazard zone A.

➢ Hazardous materials in a portable tank, on a

DOT Spec 106A or 110A tank.

Class 4 (Flammable Solids) and Class 5

(Oxidizers) Materials

Class 4 materials are solids that react (including fire and

explosion) to water, heat, and air or even react

spontaneously.

Class 4 and 5 materials must be completely enclosed in a

vehicle or covered securely. Class 4 and 5 materials,

which become unstable and dangerous when wet, must be

kept dry while in transit and during loading and unloading.

Materials that are subject to spontaneous combustion or

heating must be in vehicles with sufficient ventilation.

Class 8 (Corrosive) Materials

If loading by hand, load breakable containers of corrosive

liquid one by one. Keep them right side up. Do not drop or

roll the containers. Load them onto an even floor surface.

Stack carboys only if the lower tiers can bear the weight of

the upper tiers safely.

Do not load nitric acid above any other product.

Load charged storage batteries so their liquid won't spill.

Keep them right side up. Make sure other cargo won't fall

against or short circuit them.

Never load corrosive liquids next to or above:

✓ Division 1.4 (Explosives C).

✓ Division 4.1 (Flammable Solids).

✓ Division 4.3 (Dangerous When Wet).

✓ Class 5 (Oxidizers).

✓ Division 2.3, Zone B (Poisonous Gases).

Never load corrosive liquids with:

✓ Division 1.1 or 1.2

✓ Division 1.3

✓ Division 1.5 (Blasting Agents).

✓ Division 2.3, Zone A (Poisonous Gases).

✓ Division 4.2 (Spontaneously Combustible Materials)

✓ Division 6.1, PGI, Zone A (Poison Liquids).

Class 2 (Compressed Gases) Including

Cryogenic Liquids

If your vehicle doesn't have racks to hold cylinders, the

cargo space floor must be flat. The cylinders must be:

✓ Held upright.

✓ In racks attached to the vehicle or in boxes that will

keep them from turning over.

Cylinders may be loaded in a horizontal position (lying

down) if it is designed so the relief valve is in the vapor

space.

Division 2.3 (Poisonous Gas) or Division 6.1

(Poisonous) Materials

Never transport these materials in containers with

interconnections. Never load a package labeled POISON

or POISON INHALATION HAZARD in the driver's cab or

sleeper or with food material for human or animal

consumption. There are special rules for loading and

unloading Class 2 materials in cargo tanks. You must have

special training to do this.

Class 7 (Radioactive) Materials

Some packages of Class 7 (Radioactive) materials bear a

number called the "transport index." The shipper labels

these packages Radioactive II or Radioactive III and prints

the package's transport index on the label. Radiation

surrounds each package, passing through all nearby

packages. To deal with this problem, the number of

packages you can load together is controlled. Their

closeness to people, animals, and unexposed film is also

controlled. The transport index tells the degree of control

needed during transportation. The total transport index of

all packages in a single vehicle must not exceed 50.Table

A to this section (49 CFR 177-842) shows rules for each

transport index. It shows how close you can load Class 7

(Radioactive) materials to people, animals, or film. For

example, you can't leave a package with a transport index

of 1.1 within two feet of people or cargo space walls.

Mixed loads

The rules require some products to be loaded separately.

You cannot load them together in the same cargo space.

Figure 9.9 lists some examples. The regulations (the

Segregation Table for Hazardous Materials) name other

materials you must keep apart.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 9 – Hazardous Materials 111

Do Not Load Table

Do Not Load

In The Same Vehicle With

Division 6.1 or 2.3

(POISON or poison

inhalation hazard

labeled material)

Animal or human food unless the

poison package is over packed in

an approved way. Foodstuffs are

anything you swallow. However,

mouthwash, toothpaste, and skin

creams are not foodstuff.

Division 2.3

(Poisonous) gas

Zone A or Division

6.1 (Poison) liquids,

PGI, Zone A

Division 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 Explosives,

Division 5.1 (Oxidizers),

Class 3 (Flammable Liquids),

Class 8 (Corrosive Liquids),

Division 5.2 (Organic Peroxides),

Division 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 Explosives,

Division 1.5 (Blasting Agents),

Division 2.1 (Flammable Gases),

Class 4 (Flammable Solids)

Charged storage

batteries

Division 1.1

Class 1

(Detonating primers)

Any other explosives unless in

authorized containers or packages

Division 6.1

(Cyanides or

cyanide mixtures)

Acids, corrosive materials, or other

acidic materials which could

release hydrocyanic acid. For

Example: Cyanides, Inorganic,

n.o.s., Silver Cyanide, Sodium

Cyanide

Class 8

(Nitric Acid)

Other materials unless the nitric

acid is not loaded above any other

material

Figure 9.9

Subsection 9.4

Test Your Knowledge

1. Around which hazard classes must you never smoke?

2. Which three hazard classes should not be loaded into

a trailer that has a heater/air conditioner unit?

3. Should the floor liner required for Division 1.1 or 1.2

materials be stainless steel?

4. At the shipper’s dock you’re given a paper for 100

cartons of battery acid. You already have 100 pounds

of dry Silver Cyanide on board. What precautions do

you have to take?

5. Name a hazard class that uses transport indexes to

determine the amount that can be loaded in a single

vehicle.

These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer

them all, re-read subsection 9.4.

9.5 – Bulk Packaging Marking, Loading and

Unloading

The glossary at the end of this section gives the meaning

of the word bulk. Cargo tanks are bulk packaging

permanently attached to a vehicle. Cargo tanks remain on

the vehicle when you load and unload them. Portable

tanks are bulk packaging, which are not permanently

attached to a vehicle. The product is loaded or unloaded

while the portable tanks are off the vehicle. Portable tanks

are then put on a vehicle for transportation. There are

many types of cargo tanks in use. The most common

cargo tanks are MC306 for liquids and MC331 for gases.

9.5.1 – Markings

You must display the identification number of the

hazardous materials in portable tanks and cargo tanks and

other bulk packaging (such as dump trucks). Identification

numbers are in column 4 of the Hazardous Materials

Table. The rules require black 100 mm (3.9 inch) numbers

on orange panels, placards, or a white, diamond-shaped

background if no placards are required. Specification

cargo tanks must show re-test date markings.

Portable tanks must also show the lessee or owner's

name. They must also display the shipping name of the

contents on two opposing sides. The letters of the shipping

name must be at least two inches tall on portable tanks

with capacities of more than 1,000 gallons and one-inch

tall on portable tanks with capacities of less than 1,000

gallons. The identification number must appear on each

side and each end of a portable tank or other bulk

packaging that hold 1,000 gallons or more and on two

opposing sides, if the portable tank holds less than 1,000

gallons. The identification numbers must still be visible

when the portable tank is on the motor vehicle. If they are

not visible, you must display the identification number on

both sides and ends of the motor vehicle.

Intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) are bulk packages but

are not required to have the owner’s name or shipping

name.

9.5.2 – Tank Loading

The person in charge of loading and unloading a cargo

tank must be sure a qualified person is always watching.

This person watching the loading or unloading must:

✓ Be alert.

✓ Have a clear view of the cargo tank.

✓ Be within 25 feet of the tank.

✓ Know of the hazards of the materials involved.

✓ Know the procedures to follow in an emergency.

✓ Be authorized to move the cargo tank and able to do

so.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

112 Section 9 – Hazardous Materials

There are special attendance rules for cargo tanks

transporting propane and anhydrous ammonia.

Close all manholes and valves before moving a tank of

hazardous materials, no matter how small the amount in

the tank or how short the distance. Manholes and valves

must be closed to prevent leaks. It is illegal to move a

cargo tank with open valves or covers unless it is empty

according to 49 CFR 173.29.

9.5.3 – Flammable Liquids

Turn off your engine before loading or unloading any

flammable liquids. Only run the engine if needed to

operate a pump. Ground a cargo tank correctly before

filling it through an open filling hole. Ground the tank

before opening the filling hole, and maintain the ground

until after closing the filling hole.

9.5.4 – Compressed Gas

Keep liquid discharge valves on a compressed gas tank

closed except when loading and unloading. Unless your

engine runs a pump for product transfer, turn it off when

loading or unloading. If you use the engine, turn it off after

product transfer, before you unhook the hose. Unhook all

loading/unloading connections before coupling,

uncoupling, or moving a cargo tank. Always chock trailers

and semi-trailers to prevent motion when uncoupled from

the power unit.

Subsection 9.5

Test Your Knowledge

1. What are cargo tanks?

2. How is a portable tank different from a cargo tank?

3. Your engine runs a pump used during delivery of

compressed gas. Should you turn off the engine

before or after unhooking hoses after delivery?

These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer

them all, re-read subsection 9.5.

9.6 – Hazardous Materials -- Driving and

Parking Rules

9.6.1 – Parking with Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3

Explosives

Never park with Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3 explosives within

five feet of the traveled part of the road. Except for short

periods of time needed for vehicle operation necessities

(e.g., fueling), do not park within 300 feet of:

✓ A bridge, tunnel, or building.

✓ A place where people gather.

✓ An open fire.

If you must park to do your job, do so only briefly.

Don't park on private property unless the owner is aware of

the danger. Someone must always watch the parked

vehicle. You may let someone else watch it for you only if

your vehicle is:

✓ On the shipper's property.

✓ On the carrier's property.

✓ On the consignee's property.

You are allowed to leave your vehicle unattended in a safe

haven. A safe haven is an approved place for parking

unattended vehicles loaded with explosives. Designation

of authorized safe havens is usually made by local

authorities.

9.6.2 – Parking a Placarded Vehicle Not

Transporting Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3)

Explosives

You may park a placarded vehicle (not laden with

explosives) within five feet of the traveled part of the road

only if your work requires it. Do so only briefly. Someone

must always watch the vehicle when parked on a public

roadway or shoulder. Do not uncouple a trailer and leave it

with hazardous materials on a public street. Do not park

within 300 feet of an open fire.

9.6.3 – Attending Parked Vehicles

The person attending a placarded vehicle must:

✓ Be in the vehicle, awake, and not in the sleeper berth,

or within 100 feet of the vehicle and have it within clear

view.

✓ Be aware of the hazards of the materials being

transported.

✓ Know what to do in emergencies.

✓ Be able to move the vehicle, if needed.

9.6.4 – No Flares!

You might break down and have to use stopped vehicle

signals. Use reflective triangles or red electric lights. Never

use burning signals, such as flares or fuses, around a:

✓ Tank used for Class 3 (Flammable Liquids) or Division

2.1 (Flammable Gas) whether loaded or empty.

✓ Vehicle loaded with Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3

Explosives.

9.6.5 – Route Restrictions

Some states and counties require permits to transport

hazardous materials or wastes. They may limit the routes

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Section 9 – Hazardous Materials 113

you can use. Local rules about routes and permits change

often. It is your job as driver to find out if you need permits

or must use special routes. Make sure you have all

needed papers before starting.

If you work for a carrier, ask your dispatcher about route

restrictions or permits. If you are an independent trucker

and are planning a new route, check with state agencies

where you plan to travel. Some localities prohibit

transportation of hazardous materials through tunnels,

over bridges, or other roadways. Always check before you

start.

Whenever placarded, avoid heavily populated areas,

crowds, tunnels, narrow streets, and alleys. Take other

routes, even if inconvenient, unless there is no other way.

Never drive a placarded vehicle near open fires unless you

can safely pass without stopping.

If transporting Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3 explosives, you

must have a written route plan and follow that plan.

Carriers prepare the route plan in advance and give the

driver a copy. You may plan the route yourself if you pick

up the explosives at a location other than your employer's

terminal. Write out the plan in advance. Keep a copy of it

with you while transporting the explosives. Deliver

shipments of explosives only to authorized persons or

leave them in locked rooms designed for explosives

storage.

A carrier must choose the safest route to transport

placarded radioactive materials. After choosing the route,

the carrier must tell the driver about the radioactive

materials and show the route plan.

9.6.6 – No Smoking

Do not smoke within 25 feet of a placarded cargo tank

used for Class 3 (flammable liquids) or Division 2.1

(gases). Also, do not smoke or carry a lighted cigarette,

cigar, or pipe within 25 feet of any vehicle, which contains:

✓ Class 1 (Explosives)

✓ Class 3 (Flammable Liquids)

✓ Class 4.1 (Flammable Solids)

✓ Class 4.2 (Spontaneously Combustible)

✓ Class 5 (Oxidizers)

9.6.7 – Refuel with Engine Off

Turn off your engine before fueling a motor vehicle

containing hazardous materials. Someone must always be

at the nozzle, controlling fuel flow.

9.6.8 – 10 B C Fire Extinguisher

The power unit of placarded vehicles must have a fire

extinguisher with a UL rating of 10 B:C or more.

9.6.9 – Check Tires

Make sure your tires are properly inflated.

You must examine each tire on a motor vehicle at the

beginning of each trip and each time the vehicle is parked.

The only acceptable way to check tire pressure is to use a

tire pressure gauge.

Do not drive with a tire that is leaking or flat except to the

nearest safe place to fix it. Remove any overheated tire.

Place it a safe distance from your vehicle. Don't drive until

you correct the cause of the overheating. Remember to

follow the rules about parking and attending placarded

vehicles. They apply even when checking, repairing, or

replacing tires.

9.6.10 – Where to Keep Shipping Papers and

Emergency Response Information

Do not accept a hazardous materials shipment without a

properly prepared shipping paper. A shipping paper for

hazardous materials must always be easily recognized.

Other people must be able to find it quickly after a crash.

✓ Clearly distinguish hazardous materials shipping

papers from others by tabbing them or keeping them

on top of the stack of papers.

✓ When you are behind the wheel, keep shipping papers

within your reach (with your seat belt on), or in a pouch

on the driver's door. They must be easily seen by

someone entering the cab.

✓ When not behind the wheel, leave shipping papers in

the driver's door pouch or on the driver's seat.

✓ Emergency response information must be kept in the

same location as the shipping paper.

Papers for Division 1.1, 1.2 or, 1.3 Explosives

A carrier must give each driver transporting Division 1.1,

1.2, or 1.3 explosives a copy of Federal Motor Carrier

Safety Regulations (FMCSR), Part 397. The carrier must

also give written instructions on what to do if delayed or in

an accident. The written instructions must include:

✓ The names and telephone numbers of people to

contact (including carrier agents or shippers).

✓ The nature of the explosives transported.

✓ The precautions to take in emergencies such as fires,

accidents, or leaks.

Drivers must sign a receipt for these documents.

You must be familiar with, and have in your possession

while driving, the:

✓ Shipping papers.

✓ Written emergency instructions.

✓ Written route plan.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

114 Section 9 – Hazardous Materials

✓ A copy of FMCSR, Part 397.

9.6.11 – Equipment for Chlorine

A driver transporting chlorine in cargo tanks must have an

approved gas mask in the vehicle. The driver must also

have an emergency kit for controlling leaks in dome cover

plate fittings on the cargo tank.

9.6.12 – Stop before Railroad Crossings

Stop before a railroad crossing if your vehicle:

✓ Is placarded.

✓ Carries any amount of chlorine.

✓ Has cargo tanks, whether loaded or empty used for

hazardous materials.

You must stop 15 to 50 feet before the nearest rail.

Proceed only when you are sure no train is coming and

you can clear the tracks without stopping. Don't shift gears

while crossing the tracks.

9.7 – Hazardous Materials -Emergencies

9.7.1 – Emergency Response Guidebook

(ERG)

The Department of Transportation has a guidebook for

firefighters, police, and industry workers on how to protect

themselves and the public from hazardous materials. The

guide is indexed by proper shipping name and hazardous

materials identification number. Emergency personnel look

for these things on the shipping paper. That is why it is

vital that the proper shipping name, identification number,

label, and placards are correct.

9.7.2 – Crashes/Incidents

As a professional driver, your job at the scene of a crash

or an incident is to:

✓ Keep people away from the scene.

✓ Limit the spread of material, only if you can safely do

so.

✓ Communicate the danger of the hazardous materials

to emergency response personnel.

✓ Provide emergency responders with the shipping

papers and emergency response information.

Follow this checklist:

✓ Check to see that your driving partner is OK.

✓ Keep shipping papers with you.

✓ Keep people far away and upwind.

✓ Warn others of the danger.

✓ Call for help.

✓ Follow your employer's instructions.

9.7.3 – Fires

You might have to control minor truck fires on the road.

However, unless you have the training and equipment to

do so safely, don't fight hazardous materials fires. Dealing

with hazardous materials fires requires special training and

protective gear.

When you discover a fire, call for help. You may use the

fire extinguisher to keep minor truck fires from spreading to

cargo before firefighters arrive. Feel trailer doors to see if

they are hot before opening them. If hot, you may have a

cargo fire and should not open the doors. Opening doors

lets air in and may make the fire flare up. Without air,

many fires only smolder until firemen arrive, doing less

damage. If your cargo is already on fire, it is not safe to

fight the fire. Keep the shipping papers with you to give to

emergency personnel as soon as they arrive. Warn other

people of the danger and keep them away.

If you discover a cargo leak, identify the hazardous

materials leaking by using shipping papers, labels, or

package location. Do not touch any leaking material--many

people injure themselves by touching hazardous materials.

Do not try to identify the material or find the source of a

leak by smell. Toxic gases can destroy your sense of smell

and can injure or kill you even if they don't smell. Never

eat, drink, or smoke around a leak or spill.

If hazardous materials are spilling from your vehicle, do

not move it any more than safety requires. You may move

off the road and away from places where people gather, if

doing so serves safety. Only move your vehicle if you can

do so without danger to yourself or others.

Never continue driving with hazardous materials leaking

from your vehicle in order to find a phone, truck stop, help,

or similar reason. Remember, the carrier pays for the

cleanup of contaminated parking lots, roadways, and

drainage ditches. The costs are enormous, so don't leave

a lengthy trail of contamination. If hazardous materials are

spilling from your vehicle:

✓ Park it.

✓ Secure the area.

✓ Stay there.

✓ Call for help or send someone else for help.

When sending someone for help, give that person:

✓ A description of the emergency.

✓ Your exact location and direction of travel.

✓ Your name, the carrier's name, and the name of the

community or city where your terminal is located.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 9 – Hazardous Materials 115

✓ The proper shipping name, hazard class, and

identification number of the hazardous materials, if you

know them.

This is a lot for someone to remember. It is a good idea to

write it all down for the person you send for help. The

emergency response team must know these things to find

you and to handle the emergency. They may have to travel

miles to get to you. This information will help them to bring

the right equipment the first time, without having to go

back for it.

Never move your vehicle, if doing so will cause

contamination or damage the vehicle. Keep upwind and

away from roadside rests, truck stops, cafes, and

businesses. Never try to repack leaking containers. Unless

you have the training and equipment to repair leaks safely,

don't try it. Call your dispatcher or supervisor for

instructions and, if needed, emergency personnel.

9.7.4 – Responses to Specific Hazards

Class 1 (Explosives)

If your vehicle has a breakdown or accident while carrying

explosives, warn others of the danger. Keep bystanders

away. Do not allow smoking or open fire near the vehicle.

If there is a fire, warn every one of the danger of explosion.

Remove all explosives before separating vehicles involved

in a collision. Place the explosives at least 200 feet from

the vehicles and occupied buildings. Stay a safe distance

away.

Class 2 (Compressed Gases)

If compressed gas is leaking from your vehicle, warn

others of the danger. Only permit those involved in

removing the hazard or wreckage to get close. You must

notify the shipper if compressed gas is involved in any

accident.

Unless you are fueling machinery used in road

construction or maintenance, do not transfer a flammable

compressed gas from one tank to another on any public

roadway.

Class 3 (Flammable Liquids)

If you are transporting a flammable liquid and have an

accident or your vehicle breaks down, prevent bystanders

from gathering. Warn people of the danger. Keep them

from smoking.

Never transport a leaking cargo tank farther than needed

to reach a safe place. Get off the roadway if you can do so

safely. Don't transfer flammable liquid from one vehicle to

another on a public roadway except in an emergency.

Class 4 (Flammable Solids) and Class 5

(Oxidizing Materials)

If a flammable solid or oxidizing material spills, warn others

of the fire hazard. Do not open smoldering packages of

flammable solids. Remove them from the vehicle if you

can safely do so. Also, remove unbroken packages if it will

decrease the fire hazard.

Class 6 (Poisonous Materials and Infectious

Substances)

It is your job to protect yourself, other people, and property

from harm. Remember that many products classed as

poison are also flammable. If you think a Division 2.3

(Poison Gases) or Division 6.1 (Poison Materials) might be

flammable, take the added precautions needed for

flammable liquids or gases. Do not allow smoking, open

flame, or welding. Warn others of the hazards of fire, of

inhaling vapors, or coming in contact with the poison.

A vehicle involved in a leak of Division 2.3 (Poison Gases)

or Division 6.1 (Poisons) must be checked for stray poison

before being used again.

If a Division 6.2 (Infectious Substances) package is

damaged in handling or transportation, you should

immediately contact your supervisor. Packages that

appear to be damaged or show signs of leakage should

not be accepted.

Class 7 (Radioactive Materials)

If radioactive material is involved in a leak or broken

package, tell your dispatcher or supervisor as soon as

possible. If there is a spill, or if an internal container might

be damaged, do not touch or inhale the material. Do not

use the vehicle until it is cleaned and checked with a

survey meter.

Class 8 (Corrosive Materials)

If corrosives spill or leak during transportation, be careful

to avoid further damage or injury when handling the

containers. Parts of the vehicle exposed to a corrosive

liquid must be thoroughly washed with water. After

unloading, wash out the interior as soon as possible before

reloading.

If continuing to transport a leaking tank would be unsafe,

get off the road. If safe to do so, contain any liquid leaking

from the vehicle. Keep bystanders away from the liquid

and its fumes. Do everything possible to prevent injury to

yourself and to others.

9.7.5 – Required Notification

The National Response Center helps coordinate

emergency response to chemical hazards. It is a resource

to the police and firefighters. It maintains a 24-hour toll-

free line listed below. You or your employer must phone

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

116 Section 9 – Hazardous Materials

when any of the following occur as a direct result of a

hazardous materials incident:

✓ A person is killed.

✓ An injured person requires hospitalization.

✓ Estimated property damage exceeds $50,000.

✓ The general public is evacuated for more than one

hour.

✓ One or more major transportation arteries or facilities

are closed for one hour or more.

✓ Fire, breakage, spillage, or suspected radioactive

contamination occurs.

✓ Fire, breakage, spillage or suspected contamination

occur involving shipment of infectious substance(s)

(bacteria or toxins).

✓ The release of a marine pollutant in a quantity greater

than 119 gallons for a liquid or 882 pounds for a solid;

or a situation exists of such a nature (e.g., continuing

danger to life exists at the scene of an incident) that, in

the judgment of the carrier, should be reported.

National Response Center: (800) 424-8802

Persons telephoning the National Response Center should

be ready to give:

✓ Their name.

✓ Name and address of the carrier they work for.

✓ Phone number where they can be reached.

✓ Date, time, and location of incident.

✓ The extent of injuries, if any.

✓ Classification, name, and quantity of hazardous

materials involved, if such information is available.

✓ Type of incident and nature of hazardous materials

involvement and whether a continuing danger to life

exists at the scene.

✓ If a reportable quantity of hazardous substance was

involved, the caller should give the name of the

shipper and the quantity of the hazardous substance

discharged.

Be prepared to give your employer the required

information as well. Carriers must make detailed written

reports within 30 days of an incident.

CHEMTREC: (800) 424-9300

The Chemical Transportation Emergency Center

(CHEMTREC) in Washington also has a 24-hour toll-free

line. CHEMTREC was created to provide emergency

personnel with technical information about the physical

properties of hazardous materials. The National Response

Center and CHEMTREC are in close communication. If

you call either one, they will tell the other about the

problem when appropriate.

Do not leave radioactive yellow - II or yellow - III labeled

packages near people, animals, or film longer than shown

in Figure 9.10.

Classes of Hazardous Materials

Hazardous materials are categorized into nine major

hazard classes and additional categories for consumer

commodities and combustible liquids. The classes of

hazardous materials are listed in Figure 9.11.

Figure 9.10

Hazard Class Definitions - Table B

Class

Class Name

Example

Explosives

Ammunition, Dynamite,

Fireworks

Gases

Propane, Oxygen, Helium

Flammable

Gasoline, Acetone

Flammable Solids

Matches, Fuses

Oxidizers

Ammonium Nitrate, Hydrogen

Peroxide

Poisons

Pesticides, Arsenic

Radioactive

Uranium, Plutonium

Corrosives

Hydrochloric Acid, Battery Fluid

Miscellaneous

Hazardous Materials

Formaldehyde, Asbestos

None

ORM-D (Other

Regulated Material-

Domestic)

Hair Spray or Charcoal

None

Combustible Liquids

Fuel Oils, Lighter Fluid

Figure 9.11

Radioactive Separation

Table A

Total

Transport Index

Minimum Distance in Feet

Nearest Undeveloped Film

Minimum

Distance in Feet to

People or Cargo

Compartment

Partitions

0-2

Hrs.

2-4

Hrs.

4-8

Hrs.

8-12

Hrs.

Over

Hrs.

None

0.1 to 1.0

1.1 to 5.0

5.1 to 10.0

10.1 to 20.0

20.1 to 30.0

30.1 to 40.0

40.1 to 50.0

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Section 9 – Hazardous Materials 117

Subsections 9.6 and 9.7

Test Your Knowledge

1. If your placarded trailer has dual tires, how often

should you check the tires?

2. What is a safe haven?

3. How close to the traveled part of the roadway can you

park with Division 1.2 or 1.3 materials?

4. How close can you park to a bridge, tunnel, or building

with the same load?

5. What type of fire extinguisher must placarded vehicles

carry?

6. You’re hauling 100 pounds of Division 4.3 (dangerous

when wet) materials. Do you need to stop before a

railroad-highway crossing?

7. At a rest area you discover your hazardous materials

shipments slowly leaking from the vehicle. There is no

phone around. What should you do?

8. What is the Emergency Response Guide (ERG)?

These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer

them all, re-read subsections 9.6 and 9.7.

9.8 – Hazardous Materials Glossary

This glossary presents definitions of certain terms used in

this section. A complete glossary of terms can be found in

the federal Hazardous Materials Rules (49 CFR 171.8).

You should have an up-to-date copy of these rules for your

reference.

(Note: You will not be tested on this glossary.)

Sec. 171.8 Definitions and Abbreviations

Bulk packaging – Packaging, other than a vessel, or a

barge, including a transport vehicle or freight container, in

which hazardous materials are loaded with no intermediate

form of containment and which has:

✓ A maximum capacity greater than 450 L (119 gallons)

as a receptacle for a liquid;

✓ A maximum net mass greater than 400 kg (882

pounds) or a maximum capacity greater than 450 L

(119 gallons) as a receptacle for a solid; or

✓ A water capacity greater than 454 kg (1000 pounds)

as a receptacle for a gas as defined in Sec. 173.115.

Cargo tank - A bulk packaging which:

✓ Is a tank intended primarily for the carriage of liquids

or gases and includes appurtenances, reinforcements,

fittings, and closures (for "tank", see 49 CFR

178.345-1(c), 178.337-1, or 178.338-1, as applicable);

✓ Is permanently attached to or forms a part of a motor

vehicle, or is not permanently attached to a motor

vehicle but which, by reason of its size, construction,

or attachment to a motor vehicle is loaded or unloaded

without being removed from the motor vehicle; and

✓ Is not fabricated under a specification for cylinders,

portable tanks, tank cars, or multi-unit tank car tanks.

Carrier – A person who transports passengers or property

in commerce by rail car, aircraft, motor vehicle or vessel.

Consignee – The business or person to whom a shipment

is delivered.

Division – A subdivision of a hazard class.

EPA – U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

FMCSR – The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations.

Freight container – A reusable container having a volume

of 64 cubic feet or more, designed and constructed to

permit being lifted with its contents intact and intended

primarily for containment of packages (in unit form) during

transportation.

Fuel tank – A tank, other than a cargo tank, used to

transport flammable or combustible liquid or compressed

gas for the purpose of supplying fuel for propulsion of the

transport vehicle to which it is attached, or for the

operation of other equipment on the transport vehicle.

Gross weight or gross mass – The weight of the

packaging plus the weight of its contents.

Hazard class – The category of hazard assigned to a

hazardous material under the definitional criteria of Part

173 and the provisions of the Sec. 172.101 Table. A

material may meet the defining criteria for more than one

hazard class but is assigned to only one hazard class.

Hazardous materials – A substance or material which

has been determined by the Secretary of Transportation to

be capable of posing an unreasonable risk to health,

safety, and property when transported in commerce, and

which has been so designated. The term includes

hazardous substances, hazardous wastes, marine

pollutants, elevated temperature materials and materials

designated as hazardous in the hazardous materials table

of §172.101, and materials that meet the defining criteria

for hazard classes and divisions in §173, subchapter c of

this chapter.

Hazardous substance - A material, including its mixtures

and solutions, that:

✓ Is listed in Appendix A to Sec. 172.101;

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118 Section 9 – Hazardous Materials

✓ Is in a quantity, in one package, which equals or

exceeds the reportable quantity (RQ) listed in

Appendix A to Sec. 172.101; and

✓ When in a mixture or solution -

• For radionuclides, conforms to paragraph 7 of

Appendix A to Sec. 172.101.

• For other than radionuclides, is in a concentration

by weight which equals or exceeds the

concentration corresponding to the RQ of the

material, as shown in Figure 9.12.

Hazardous Substance Concentrations

RQ Pounds

(Kilograms)

Concentration by Weight

Percent

PPM

5,000 (2,270)

100,000

1,000 (454)

20,000

100 (45.4)

2,000

10 (4.54)

.02

200

1 (0.454)

.002

Figure 9.12

This definition does not apply to petroleum products that

are lubricants or fuels (see 40 CFR 300.6).

Hazardous waste – Any material that is subject to the

Hazardous Waste Manifest Requirements of the U.S.

Environmental Protection Agency specified in 40 CFR Part

262.

Intermediate bulk container (IBC) – A rigid or flexible

portable packaging, other than a cylinder or portable tank,

which is designed for mechanical handling. Standards for

IBCs manufactured in the United States are set forth in

subparts N and O Part 178.

Limited quantity – The maximum amount of a hazardous

material for which there may be specific labeling or

packaging exception.

Marking – The descriptive name, identification number,

instructions, cautions, weight, specification, or UN marks

or combinations thereof, required by this subchapter on

outer packaging of hazardous materials.

Mixture – A material composed of more than one

chemical compound or element.

Name of contents – The proper shipping name as

specified in Sec. 172.101.

Non-bulk packaging - A packaging, which has:

✓ A maximum capacity of 450 L (119 gallons) as a

receptacle for a liquid;

✓ A maximum net mass less than 400 kg (882 pounds)

and a maximum capacity of 450 L (119 gallons) or less

as a receptacle for a solid;

✓ A water capacity greater than 454 kg (1,000 pounds)

or less as a receptacle for a gas as defined in Sec.

173.115;

✓ Regardless of the definition of bulk packaging, a

maximum net mass of 400 kg (882 pounds) or less for

a bag or box conforming to the applicable

requirements for specification packaging, including the

maximum net mass limitations, provided in subpart L

of Part 178.

N.O.S. - Not otherwise specified.

Outage or ullage – The amount by which a packaging

falls short of being liquid full, usually expressed in percent

by volume.

PHMSA – The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety

Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation,

Washington, DC 20590.

Portable tank – Bulk packaging (except a cylinder having

a water capacity of 1,000 pounds or less) designed

primarily to be loaded onto, or on, or temporarily attached

to a transport vehicle or ship and equipped with skids,

mountings, or accessories to facilitate handling of the tank

by mechanical means. It does not include a cargo tank,

tank car, multi-unit tank car tank, or trailer carrying 3AX,

3AAX, or 3T cylinders.

Proper shipping name – The name of the hazardous

materials shown in Roman print (not italics) in Sec.

172.101.

P.s.i. or psi – Pounds per square inch.

P.s.i.a. or psia – Pounds per square inch absolute.

Reportable quantity (RQ) - The quantity specified in

Column 2 of the Appendix to Sec. 172.101 for any material

identified in Column 1 of the Appendix.

Shipper's certification – A statement on a shipping

paper, signed by the shipper, saying he/she prepared the

shipment properly according to law. For example:

✓ "This is to certify that the above named materials are

properly classified, described, packaged, marked and

labeled, and are in proper condition for transportation

according to the applicable regulations or the

Department of Transportation."; or

✓ I hereby declare that the contents of this consignment

are fully and accurately described above by the proper

shipping name and are classified, packaged, marked

and labeled/placarded, and are in all respects in

proper condition for transport according to applicable

international and national government regulations."

Shipping paper – A shipping order, bill of lading,

manifest, or other shipping document serving a similar

purpose prepared in accordance with subpart C of Part

172.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 9 – Hazardous Materials 119

Technical name – A recognized chemical name or

microbiological name currently used in scientific and

technical handbooks, journals, and texts.

Transport vehicle – A cargo-carrying vehicle such as an

automobile, van, tractor, truck, semi-trailer, tank car, or rail

car used for the transportation of cargo by any mode. Each

cargo-carrying body (trailer, rail car, etc.) is a separate

transport vehicle.

UN standard packaging – A specification packaging

conforming to the standards in the UN recommendations.

UN – United Nations.

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Section 10 – School Buses 121

Section 10

SCHOOL BUSES

This Section Covers:

✓ Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors

✓ Loading and Unloading

✓ Emergency Exit and Evacuation

✓ Railroad-highway Grade Crossings

✓ Student Management

✓ Antilock Braking Systems

✓ Special Safety Considerations

Because state and local laws and regulations regulate so

much of school transportation and school bus operations,

many of the procedures in this section may differ from

state to state. You should be thoroughly familiar with the

laws and regulations in your state and local school district.

10.1 – Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors

10.1.1 – Danger Zones

The danger zone is the area on all sides of the bus where

children are in the most danger of being hit, either by

another vehicle or their own bus. The danger zones may

extend as much as 30 feet from the front bumper with the

first 10 feet being the most dangerous, 10 feet from the left

and right sides of the bus and 10 feet behind the rear

bumper of the school bus. In addition, the area to the left

of the bus is always considered dangerous because of

passing cars. Figure 10.1 illustrates these danger zones.

10.1.2 – Correct Mirror Adjustment

Proper adjustment and use of all mirrors is vital to the safe

operation of the school bus in order to observe the danger

zone around the bus and look for students, traffic, and

other objects in this area. You should always check each

mirror before operating the school bus to obtain maximum

viewing area. If necessary, have the mirrors adjusted.

10.1.3 – Outside Left and Right Side Flat

Mirrors

These mirrors are mounted at the left and right front

corners of the bus at the side or front of the windshield.

They are used to monitor traffic, check clearances and

students on the sides and to the rear of the bus. There is a

blind spot immediately below and in front of each mirror

and directly in back of the rear bumper. The blind spot

behind the bus extends 50 to 150 feet and could extend up

to 400 feet depending on the length and width of the bus.

Ensure that the mirrors are properly adjusted so you can

see:

✓ 200 feet or 4 bus lengths behind the bus.

✓ Along the sides of the bus.

✓ The rear tires touching the ground.

Figure 10.2 shows how both the outside left and right side

flat mirrors should be adjusted.

Figure 10.1

10.1.4 – Outside Left and Right Side Convex

Mirrors

The convex mirrors are located below the outside flat

mirrors. They are used to monitor the left and right sides at

a wide angle. They provide a view of traffic, clearances,

and students at the side of the bus. These mirrors present

a view of people and objects that does not accurately

reflect their size and distance from the bus.

You should position these mirrors to see:

✓ The entire side of the bus up to the mirror mounts.

✓ Front of the rear tires touching the ground.

✓ At least one traffic lane on either side of the bus.

Figure 10.3 shows how both the outside left and right side

convex mirrors should be adjusted.

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

122 Section 10 – School Buses

Figure 10.2

Figure 10.3

10.1.5 – Outside Left and Right Side

Crossover Mirrors

These mirrors are mounted on both left and right front

corners of the bus. They are used to see the front bumper

“danger zone” area directly in front of the bus that is not

visible by direct vision, and to view the “danger zone” area

to the left side and the right side of the bus, including the

service door and front wheel area. The mirror presents a

view of people and objects that does not accurately reflect

their size and distance from the bus. The driver must

ensure that these mirrors are properly adjusted.

Ensure that the mirrors are properly adjusted so you can

see:

✓ The entire area in front of the bus from the front

bumper at ground level to a point where direct vision is

possible. Direct vision and mirror view vision should

overlap.

✓ The right and left front tires touching the ground.

✓ The area from the front of the bus to the service door.

✓ These mirrors, along with the convex and flat mirrors,

should be viewed in a logical sequence to ensure that

a child or object is not in any of the danger zones.

Figure 10.4 illustrates how the left and right side crossover

mirrors should be adjusted.

Figure 10.4

10.1.6 – Overhead Inside Rearview Mirror

This mirror is mounted directly above the windshield on the

driver’s side area of the bus. This mirror is used to monitor

passenger activity inside the bus. It may provide limited

visibility directly in back of the bus if the bus is equipped

with a glass-bottomed rear emergency door.

There is a blind spot area directly behind the driver’s seat

as well as a large blind spot area that begins at the rear

bumper and could extend up to 400 feet or more behind

the bus. You must use the exterior side mirrors to monitor

traffic that approaches and enters this area.

You should position the mirror to see:

✓ The top of the rear window in the top of the mirror.

✓ All of the students, including the heads of the students

right behind you.

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Section 10 – School Buses 123

10.2 – Loading and Unloading

More students are killed while getting on or off a school

bus each year than are killed as passengers inside of a

school bus. As a result, knowing what to do before, during,

and after loading or unloading students is critical. This

section will give you specific procedures to help you avoid

unsafe conditions which could result in injuries and

fatalities during and after loading and unloading students.

The information in this section is intended to provide a

broad overview, but is not a definitive set of actions. It is

imperative that you learn and obey the state laws and

regulations governing loading/unloading operations in your

state.

10.2.1 – Approaching the Stop

Each school district establishes official routes and official

school bus stops. All stops should be approved by the

school district prior to making the stop. You should never

change the location of a bus stop without written approval

from the appropriate school district official.

You must use extreme caution when approaching a school

bus stop. You are in a very demanding situation when

entering these areas. It is critical that you understand and

follow all state and local laws and regulations regarding

approaching a school bus stop. This would involve the

proper use of mirrors, alternating flashing lights, and when

equipped, the moveable stop signal arm and crossing

control arm.

When approaching the stop, you should:

✓ Approach cautiously at a slow rate of speed.

✓ Look for pedestrians, traffic, or other objects before,

during, and after coming to a stop.

✓ Continuously check all mirrors.

✓ If the school bus is so equipped, activate alternating

flashing amber warning lights at least 200 feet or

approximately 5-10 seconds before the school bus

stop or in accordance with state law.

✓ Turn on right turn signal indicator about 100-300 feet

or approximately 3-5 seconds before pulling over.

✓ Continuously check mirrors to monitor the danger

zones for students, traffic, and other objects.

✓ Move as far as possible to the right on the traveled

portion of the roadway.

When stopping you should:

✓ Bring school bus to a full stop with the front bumper at

least 10 feet away from students at the designated

stop. This forces the students to walk to the bus so

you have a better view of their movements.

✓ Place transmission in Park, or if there is no Park shift

point, in Neutral and set the parking brake at each

stop.

✓ Activate alternating red lights when traffic is a safe

distance from the school bus and ensure stop arm is

extended.

✓ Make a final check to see that all traffic has stopped

before completely opening the door and signaling

students to approach.

10.2.2 – Loading Procedures

✓ Perform a safe stop as described in subsection 10.2.1.

✓ Students should wait in a designated location for the

school bus, facing the bus as it approaches.

✓ Students should board the bus only when signaled by

the driver.

✓ Monitor all mirrors continuously.

✓ Count the number of students at the bus stop and be

sure all board the bus. If possible, know names of

students at each stop. If there is a student missing,

ask the other students where the student is.

✓ Have the students board the school bus slowly, in

single file, and use the handrail. The dome light should

be on while loading in the dark.

✓ Wait until students are seated and facing forward

before moving the bus.

✓ Check all mirrors. Make certain no one is running to

catch the bus.

✓ If you cannot account for a student outside, secure the

bus, take the key, and check around and underneath

the bus.

✓ When all students are accounted for, prepare to leave

by:

• Closing the door.

• Engaging the transmission.

• Releasing the parking brake.

• Turning off alternating flashing red lights.

• Turning on left turn signal.

• Checking all mirrors again.

• Allowing congested traffic to disperse.

✓ When it is safe, move the bus to enter traffic flow and

continue the route.

The loading procedure is essentially the same wherever

you load students, but there are slight differences. When

students are loading at the school campus, you should:

✓ Turn off the ignition switch.

✓ Remove key if leaving driver’s compartment.

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124 Section 10 – School Buses

✓ Position yourself to supervise loading as required or

recommended by your state or local regulations.

10.2.3 – Unloading Procedures on the Route

✓ Perform a safe stop at designated unloading areas as

described in subsection 10.2.1.

✓ Have the students remain seated until told to exit.

✓ Check all mirrors.

✓ Count the number of students while unloading to

confirm the location of all students before pulling away

from the stop.

✓ Tell students to exit the bus and walk at least 10 feet

away from the side of the bus to a position where the

driver can plainly see all students.

✓ Check all mirrors again. Make sure no students are

around or returning to the bus.

✓ If you cannot account for a student outside the bus,

secure the bus, and check around and underneath the

bus.

✓ When all students are accounted for, prepare to leave

by:

• Closing the door.

• Engaging transmission.

• Releasing parking brake.

• Turning off alternating flashing red lights.

• Turning on left turn signal.

• Checking all mirrors again.

• Allowing congested traffic to disperse.

✓ When it is safe, move the bus, enter the traffic flow

and continue the route.

Note. If you have missed a student’s unloading stop, do

not back up. Be sure to follow local procedures.

Additional Procedures for Students That

Must Cross the Roadway

You should understand what students should do when

exiting a school bus and crossing the street in front of the

bus. In addition, the school bus driver should understand

that students might not always do what they are supposed

to do. If a student or students must cross the roadway,

they should follow these procedures:

✓ Walk approximately 10 feet away from the side of the

school bus to a position where you can see them.

✓ Walk to a location at least 10 feet in front of the right

corner of the bumper, but still remaining away from the

front of the school bus.

✓ Stop at the right edge of the roadway. You should be

able to see the student’s feet.

When students reach the edge of the roadway, they

should:

✓ Stop and look in all directions, making sure the

roadway is clear and is safe.

✓ Check to see if the red flashing lights on the bus are

still flashing.

✓ Wait for your signal before crossing the roadway.

Upon your signal, the students should:

✓ Cross far enough in front of the school bus to be in

your view.

✓ Stop at the left edge of the school bus, stop, and look

again for your signal to continue to cross the roadway.

✓ Look for traffic in both directions, making sure roadway

is clear.

✓ Proceed across the roadway, continuing to look in all

directions.

Note: The school bus driver should enforce any state or

local regulations or recommendations concerning student

actions outside the school bus.

10.2.4 – Unloading Procedures at School

State and local laws and regulations regarding unloading

students at schools, particularly in situations where such

activities take place in the school parking lot or other

location that is off the traveled roadway, are often different

than unloading along the school bus route. It is important

that the school bus driver understands and obeys state

and local laws and regulations. The following procedures

are meant to be general guidelines.

When unloading at the school you should follow these

procedures:

✓ Perform a safe stop at designated unloading areas as

described in subsection 10.2.1.

✓ Secure the bus by:

• Turning off the ignition switch.

• Removing key if leaving driver’s compartment.

✓ Have the students remain seated until told to exit.

✓ Position yourself to supervise unloading as required or

recommended by your state or local regulations.

✓ Have students exit in orderly fashion.

✓ Observe students as they step from bus to see that all

move promptly away from the unloading area.

✓ Walk through the bus and check for hiding/sleeping

students and items left by students.

✓ Check all mirrors. Make certain no students are

returning to the bus.

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Section 10 – School Buses 125

✓ If you cannot account for a student outside the bus

and the bus is secure, check around and underneath

the bus.

✓ When all students are accounted for, prepare to leave

by:

• Closing the door.

• Fastening safety belt.

• Starting engine.

• Engaging the transmission.

• Releasing the parking brake.

• Turning off alternating flashing red lights.

• Turning on left turn signal.

• Checking all mirrors again.

• Allowing congested traffic to disperse.

✓ When it is safe, pull away from the unloading area.

10.2.5 – Special Dangers of Loading and

Unloading

Dropped or Forgotten Objects

Always focus on students as they approach the bus and

watch for any who disappear from sight.

Students may drop an object near the bus during loading

and unloading. Stopping to pick up the object or returning

to pick up the object may cause the student to disappear

from the driver’s sight at a very dangerous moment.

Students should be told to leave any dropped object and

move to a point of safety out of the danger zones and

attempt to get the driver’s attention to retrieve the object.

Handrail Hang-ups

Students have been injured or killed when clothing,

accessories, or even parts of their body get caught in the

handrail or door as they exited the bus. You should closely

observe all students exiting the bus to confirm that they

are in a safe location prior to moving the bus.

10.2.6 – Post-trip Inspection

When your route or school activity trip is finished, you

should conduct a post-trip inspection of the bus.

You should walk through the bus and around the bus

looking for the following:

✓ Articles left on the bus.

✓ Sleeping students.

✓ Open windows and doors.

✓ Mechanical/operational problems with the bus, with

special attention to items that are unique to school

buses – mirror systems, flashing warning lamps and

stop signal arms.

✓ Damage or vandalism.

Any problems or special situations should be reported

immediately to your supervisor or school authorities.

10.3 – Emergency Exit and Evacuation

An emergency situation can happen to anyone, anytime,

anywhere. It could be a crash, a stalled school bus on a

railroad-highway crossing or in a high-speed intersection,

an electrical fire in the engine compartment, a medical

emergency to a student on the school bus, etc. Knowing

what to do in an emergency–before, during and after an

evacuation–can mean the difference between life and

death.

10.3.1 – Planning for Emergencies

Determine Need to Evacuate Bus

The first and most important consideration is for you to

recognize the hazard. If time permits, school bus drivers

should contact their dispatcher to explain the situation

before making a decision to evacuate the school bus.

As a general rule, student safety and control is best

maintained by keeping students on the bus during an

emergency and/or impending crisis situation, if so doing

does not expose them to unnecessary risk or injury.

Remember, the decision to evacuate the bus must be a

timely one.

A decision to evacuate should include consideration of the

following conditions:

✓ Is there a fire or danger of fire?

✓ Is there a smell of raw or leaking fuel?

✓ Is there a chance the bus could be hit by other

vehicles?

✓ Is the bus in the path of a sighted tornado or rising

waters?

✓ Are there downed power lines?

✓ Would removing students expose them to speeding

traffic, severe weather, or a dangerous environment

such as downed power lines?

✓ Would moving students complicate injuries such as

neck and back injuries and fractures?

✓ Is there a hazardous spill involved? Sometimes, it may

be safer to remain on the bus and not come in contact

with the material.

Mandatory Evacuations

The driver must evacuate the bus when:

✓ The bus is on fire or there is a threat of a fire.

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✓ The bus is stalled on or adjacent to a railroad-highway

crossing.

✓ The position of the bus may change and increase the

danger.

✓ There is an imminent danger of collision.

✓ There is a need to quickly evacuate because of a

hazardous materials spill.

10.3.2 – Evacuation Procedures

Be Prepared and Plan Ahead

When possible, assign two responsible, older student

assistants to each emergency exit. Teach them how to

assist the other students off the bus. Assign another

student assistant to lead the students to a “safe place”

after evacuation. However, you must recognize that there

may not be older, responsible students on the bus at the

time of the emergency. Therefore, emergency evacuation

procedures must be explained to all students. This

includes knowing how to operate the various emergency

exits and the importance of listening to and following all

instructions given by you.

Some tips to determine a safe place:

✓ A safe place will be at least 100 feet off the road in the

direction of oncoming traffic. This will keep the

students from being hit by debris if another vehicle

collides with the bus.

✓ Lead students upwind of the bus if fire is present.

✓ Lead students as far away from railroad tracks as

possible and in the direction of any oncoming train.

✓ Lead students upwind of the bus at least 300 feet if

there is a risk from spilled hazardous materials.

If the bus is in the direct path of a sighted tornado and

evacuation is ordered, escort students to a nearby ditch or

culvert if shelter in a building is not readily available, and

direct them to lie face down, hands covering their head.

They should be far enough away so the bus cannot topple

on them. Avoid areas that are subject to flash floods.

General Procedures

✓ Determine if evacuation is in the best interest of safety.

✓ Determine the best type of evacuation:

• Front, rear or side door evacuation, or some

combination of doors.

• Roof or window evacuation.

✓ Secure the bus by:

• Placing transmission in Park, or if there is no shift

point, in Neutral.

• Setting parking brakes.

• Shutting off the engine.

• Removing ignition key.

• Activating hazard-warning lights.

✓ If time allows, notify dispatch office of evacuation

location, conditions, and type of assistance needed.

✓ Dangle radio microphone or telephone out of driver’s

window for later use, if operable.

✓ If no radio, or radio is inoperable, dispatch a passing

motorist or area resident to call for help. As a last

resort, dispatch two older, responsible students to go

for help.

• Order the evacuation.

• Evacuate students from the bus.

• Do not move a student you believe may have

suffered a neck or spinal injury unless his or her

life is in immediate danger.

• Special procedures must be used to move neck

spinal injury victims to prevent further injury.

✓ Direct a student assistant to lead students to the

nearest safe place.

✓ Walk through the bus to ensure no students remain on

the bus. Retrieve emergency equipment.

✓ Join waiting students. Account for all students and

check for their safety.

✓ Protect the scene. Set out emergency warning devices

as necessary and appropriate.

✓ Prepare information for emergency responders.

10.4 – Railroad-highway Crossings

10.4.1 – Types of Crossings

Passive Crossings

This type of crossing does not have any type of traffic

control device. You must stop at these crossings and

follow proper procedures. However, the decision to

proceed rests entirely in your hands. Passive crossings

require you to recognize the crossing, search for any train

using the tracks and decide if there is sufficient clear

space to cross safely. Passive crossings have yellow

circular advance warning signs, pavement markings and

cross-bucks to assist you in recognizing a crossing.

Active Crossings

This type of crossing has a traffic control device installed

at the crossing to regulate traffic at the crossing. These

active devices include flashing red lights, with or without

bells and flashing red lights with bells and gates.

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10.4.2 – Warning Signs and Devices

Advance Warning Signs

The round, black-on-yellow warning sign is placed ahead

of a public railroad-highway crossing. The advance

warning sign tells you to slow down, look and listen for the

train, and be prepared to stop at the tracks if a train is

coming. See Figure 10.5.

Figure 10.5

Pavement Markings

Pavement markings mean the same as the advance

warning sign. They consist of an “X” with the letters “”RR”

and a no-passing marking on two-lane roads.

There is also a no passing zone sign on two-lane roads.

There may be a white stop line painted on the pavement

before the railroad tracks. The front of the school bus must

remain behind this line while stopped at the crossing. See

Figure 10.6.

Figure 10.6

Cross-buck Signs

This sign marks the crossing. It requires you to yield the

right-of-way to the train. If there is no white line painted on

the pavement, you must stop the bus before the cross-

buck sign. When the road crosses over more than one set

of tracks, a sign below the cross-buck indicates the

number of tracks. See Figure 10.7.

Figure 10.7

Flashing Red Light Signals

At many highway-rail grade crossings, the cross-buck sign

has flashing red lights and bells. When the lights begin to

flash, stop! A train is approaching. You are required to

yield the right-of-way to the train. If there is more than one

track, make sure all tracks are clear before crossing. See

Figure 10.8.

Figure 10.8

Gates

Many railroad-highway crossings have gates with flashing

red lights and bells. Stop when the lights begin to flash and

before the gate lowers across the road lane. Remain

stopped until the gates go up and the lights have stopped

flashing. Proceed when it is safe. If the gate stays down

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128 Section 10 – School Buses

after the train passes, do not drive around the gate.

Instead, call your dispatcher. See Figure 10.8.

10.4.3 – Recommended Procedures

Each state has laws and regulations governing how school

buses must operate at railroad-highway crossings. It is

important for you to understand and obey these state laws

and regulations. In general, school buses must stop at all

crossings, and ensure it is safe before proceeding across

the tracks. The specific procedures required in each state

vary.

A school bus is one of the safest vehicles on the highway.

However, a school bus does not have the slightest edge

when involved in a crash with a train. Because of a train’s

size and weight, it cannot stop quickly. An emergency

escape route does not exist for a train. You can prevent

school bus/train crashes by following these recommended

procedures.

Approaching the Crossing:

✓ Slow down, including shifting to a lower gear in a

manual transmission bus, and test your brakes.

✓ Activate hazard lights approximately 200 feet before

the crossing. Make sure your intentions are known.

✓ Scan your surroundings and check for traffic behind

you.

✓ Stay to the right of the roadway if possible.

✓ Choose an escape route in the event of a brake failure

or problems behind you.

At the Crossing:

✓ Stop no closer than 15 feet and no farther than 50 feet

from the nearest rail, where you have the best view of

the tracks.

✓ Place the transmission in Park, or if there is no Park

shift point, in Neutral and press down on the service

brake or set the parking brakes.

✓ Turn off all radios and noisy equipment and silence the

passengers.

✓ Open the service door and driver’s window. Look and

listen for an approaching train.

Crossing the Track:

✓ Check the crossing signals again before proceeding.

✓ At a multiple-track crossing, stop only before the first

set of tracks. When you are sure no train is

approaching on any track, proceed across all of the

tracks until you have completely cleared them.

✓ Cross the tracks in a low gear. Do not change gears

while crossing.

✓ If the gate comes down after you have started across,

drive through it even if it means you will break the

gate.

10.4.4 – Special Situations

Bus Stalls or Trapped on Tracks

If your bus stalls or is trapped on the tracks, get everyone

out and off the tracks immediately. Move everyone far from

the bus at an angle, which is both away from the tracks

and toward the train.

Police Officer at the Crossing

If a police officer is at the crossing, obey directions. If there

is no police officer, and you believe the signal is

malfunctioning, call your dispatcher to report the situation

and ask for instructions on how to proceed.

Obstructed View of Tracks

Plan your route so it provides maximum sight distance at

highway-rail grade crossings. Do not attempt to cross the

tracks unless you can see far enough down the track to

know for certain that no trains are approaching. Passive

crossings are those that do not have any type of traffic

control device. Be especially careful at “passive”

crossings. Even if there are active railroad signals that

indicate the tracks are clear, you must look and listen to be

sure it is safe to proceed.

Containment or Storage Areas

If it won’t fit, don’t commit! Know the length of your bus

and the size of the containment area at highway-rail

crossings on the school bus route, as well as any crossing

you encounter in the course of a school activity trip. When

approaching a crossing with a signal or stop sign on the

opposite side, pay attention to the amount of room there.

Be certain the bus has enough containment or storage

area to completely clear the railroad tracks on the other

side if there is a need to stop. As a general rule, add 15

feet to the length of the school bus to determine an

acceptable amount of containment or storage area.

10.5 – Student Management

10.5.1 – Don’t Deal with On-bus Problems

When Loading and Unloading

In order to get students to and from school safely and on

time, you need to be able to concentrate on the driving

task.

Loading and unloading requires all your concentration.

Don’t take your eyes off what is happening outside the

bus.

If there is a behavior problem on the bus, wait until the

students unloading are safely off the bus and have moved

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away. If necessary, pull the bus over to handle the

problem.

10.5.2 – Handling Serious Problems

Tips on handling serious problems:

✓ Follow your school’s procedures for discipline or

refusal of rights to ride the bus.

✓ Stop the bus. Park in a safe location off the road,

perhaps a parking lot or a driveway.

✓ Secure the bus. Take the ignition key with you if you

leave your seat.

✓ Stand up and speak respectfully to the offender or

offenders. Speak in a courteous manner with a firm

voice. Remind the offender of the expected behavior.

Do not show anger, but do show that you mean

business.

✓ If a change of seating is needed, request that the

student move to a seat near you.

Never put a student off the bus except at school or at his

or her designated school bus stop. If you feel that the

offense is serious enough that you cannot safely drive the

bus, call for a school administrator or the police to come

and remove the student. Always follow your state or local

procedures for requesting assistance.

10.6 – Antilock Braking Systems

10.6.1 – Vehicles Required to Have Antilock

Braking Systems

The Department of Transportation requires that antilock

braking systems be on:

✓ Air brakes vehicles, (trucks, buses, trailers and

converter dollies) built on or after March 1, 1998.

✓ Hydraulically braked trucks and buses with a gross

vehicle weight rating of 10,000 lbs or more built on or

after March 1, 1999.

Many buses built before these dates have been voluntarily

equipped with ABS.

Your school bus will have a yellow ABS malfunction lamp

on the instrument panel if it is equipped with ABS.

10.6.2 – How ABS Helps You

When you brake hard on slippery surfaces in a vehicle

without ABS, your wheels may lock up. When your

steering wheels lock up, you lose steering control. When

your other wheels lock up, you may skid or even spin the

vehicle.

ABS helps you avoid wheel lock up and maintain control.

You may or may not be able to stop faster with ABS, but

you should be able to steer around an obstacle while

braking, and avoid skids caused by over braking.

10.6.3 – Braking with ABS

When you drive a vehicle with ABS, you should brake as

you always have. In other words:

✓ Use only the braking force necessary to stop safely

and stay in control.

✓ Brake the same way, regardless of whether you have

ABS on the bus. However, in emergency braking, do

not pump the brakes on a bus with ABS.

✓ As you slow down, monitor your bus and back off the

brakes (if it is safe to do so) to stay in control.

10.6.4 – Braking if ABS is Not Working

Without ABS, you still have normal brake functions. Drive

and brake as you always have.

Vehicles with ABS have yellow malfunction lamps to tell

you if something is not working. The yellow ABS

malfunction lamp is on the bus’s instrument panel.

As a system check on newer vehicles, the malfunction

lamp comes on at start-up for a bulb check and then goes

out quickly. On older systems, the lamp could stay on until

you are driving over five mph.

If the lamp stays on after the bulb check, or goes on once

you are under way, you may have lost ABS control at one

or more wheels.

Remember, if your ABS malfunctions, you still have

regular brakes. Drive normally, but get the system serviced

soon.

10.6.5 – Safety Reminders

✓ ABS won’t allow you to drive faster, follow more

closely, or drive less carefully.

✓ ABS won’t prevent power or turning skids. ABS

should prevent brake-induced skids but not those

caused by spinning the drive wheels or going too fast

in a turn.

✓ ABS won’t necessarily shorten stopping distance. ABS

will help maintain vehicle control, but not always

shorten stopping distance.

✓ ABS won’t increase or decrease ultimate stopping

power. ABS is an “add-on” to your normal brakes, not

a replacement for them.

✓ ABS won’t change the way you normally brake. Under

normal brake conditions, your vehicle will stop as it

always stopped. ABS only comes into play when a

wheel would normally have locked up because of over

braking.

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130 Section 10 – School Buses

✓ ABS won’t compensate for bad brakes or poor brake

maintenance.

Remember

✓ The best vehicle safety feature is still a safe driver.

✓ Drive so you never need to use your ABS.

✓ If you need it, ABS could help to prevent a serious

crash.

10.7 – Special Safety Considerations

10.7.1 – Strobe Lights

Some school buses are equipped with roof-mounted, white

strobe lights. If your bus is so equipped, the overhead

strobe light should be used when you have limited

visibility. This means that you cannot easily see around

you – in front, behind, or beside the school bus. Your

visibility could be only slightly limited or it could be so bad

that you can see nothing at all. In all instances, understand

and obey your state or local regulations concerning the

use of these lights.

10.7.2 – Driving in High Winds

Strong winds affect the handling of the school bus! The

side of a school bus acts like a sail on a sailboat. Strong

winds can push the school bus sideways. They can even

move the school bus off the road or, in extreme conditions,

tip it over.

If you are caught in strong winds:

✓ Keep a strong grip on the steering wheel. Try to

anticipate gusts.

✓ You should slow down to lessen the effect of the wind,

or pull off the roadway and wait.

✓ Contact your dispatcher to get more information on

how to proceed.

10.7.3 – Backing

Backing a school bus is strongly discouraged. You should

back your bus only when you have no other safe way to

move the vehicle. You should never back a school bus

when students are outside of the bus. Backing is

dangerous and increases your risk of a collision. If you

have no choice and you must back your bus, follow these

procedures:

✓ Post a lookout. The purpose of the lookout is to warn

you about obstacles, approaching persons, and other

vehicles. The lookout should not give directions on

how to back the bus.

✓ Signal for quiet on the bus.

✓ Constantly check all mirrors and rear windows.

✓ Back slowly and smoothly.

✓ If no lookout is available:

• Set the parking brake.

• Turn off the motor and take the keys with you.

• Walk to the rear of the bus to determine whether

the way is clear.

✓ If you must back-up at a student pick-up point, be sure

to pick up students before backing and watch for late

comers at all times.

✓ Be sure that all students are in the bus before backing.

✓ If you must back-up at a student drop-off point, be sure

to unload students after backing.

10.7.4 – Tail Swing

A school bus can have up to a three-foot tail swing. You

need to check your mirrors before and during any turning

movements to monitor the tail swing.

Section 10

Test Your Knowledge

1. Define the danger zone. How far does the danger

zone extend around the bus?

2. What should you be able to see if the outside flat

mirrors are adjusted properly? The outside convex

mirrors? The crossover mirrors?

3. You are loading students along the route. When

should you activate your alternating flashing amber

warning lights?

4. You are unloading students along your route. Where

should students walk to after exiting the bus?

5. After unloading at school, why should you walk

through the bus?

6. What position should students be in front of the bus

before they cross the roadway?

7. Under what conditions must you evacuate the bus?

8. How far from the nearest rail should you stop at a

highway-rail crossing?

9. What is a passive highway-rail crossing? Why should

you be extra cautious at this type of crossing?

10. How should you use your brakes if your vehicle is

equipped with antilock brakes (ABS)?

These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer

them all, re-read Section 10.

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Section 11

Vehicle Inspection Test

This Section Covers:

✓ Internal Inspection

✓ External Inspection

During the Vehicle inspection, you must show that the

vehicle is safe to drive. You will have to walk around the

vehicle, name and point to/ touch each item and explain to

the examiner what you are checking and why. Any vehicle

that has components marked or labeled cannot be used

for the Vehicle Inspection test.

11.1 All Vehicles

Study the following vehicle parts for the type of vehicle you

will be using during the CDL skills tests. You should be

able to identify each part and tell the examiner what you

are looking for or inspecting.

11.1.1 Engine Compartment (Engine Off)

Leaks/Hoses

✓ Look for puddles on the ground.

✓ Look for dripping fluids on underside of engine and

transmission.

✓ Inspect hoses for condition and leaks.

Oil Level

✓ Check oil level when engine is off.

✓ Indicate where dipstick is located.

✓ Check that the oil level is within safe operating range.

Level must be above refill mark.

Coolant Level

✓ Inspect reservoir sight glass, or

✓ (If engine is not hot), remove radiator cap and check for

visible coolant level.

Power Steering Fluid

✓ Check the dipstick and see where the fluid level is

relative to the refill mark or checks sight glass. Level

must be above refill mark.

Engine Compartment Belts

Check the following belts for snugness (1/2 to 3/4 inch play

at center of belt), cracks, frays, loose fibers or signs of

wear:

✓ Power steering belt.

✓ Water pump belt.

✓ Alternator belt.

✓ Air compressor belt.

Note: If any of the components listed above are not belt

driven, you must:

✓ Tell the examiner which component(s) are not belt

driven.

✓ Make sure component(s) are operating properly, are

not damaged or leaking, and are mounted securely.

Safe Start

✓ Place gearshift lever in neutral (or park, for automatic

transmissions).

✓ Depress clutch before attempting to start the vehicle

✓ Start the vehicle and keep clutch depressed until

engine reaches idling speed.

✓ Then release clutch slowly.

11.1.2 – Cab Check/Engine Start

Oil Pressure Gauge

✓ Make sure oil pressure gauge is working.

✓ Check that pressure gauge shows increasing or

normal oil pressure or that the warning light goes off.

✓ If equipped, oil temperature gauge should begin a

gradual rise to the normal operating range.

Temperature Gauge

✓ Make sure the temperature gauge is working.

✓ Temperature should begin to climb to the normal

operating range or temperature light should be off.

Air Gauge

✓ Check that the air gauge is working properly and that

the air compressor builds the air pressure to governor

cut-out at approximately 120-140 psi or as specified by

manufacturer.

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Ammeter/Voltmeter

✓ Check that gauges show alternator and/or generator is

charging or that warning light is off.

Mirrors and Windshield

✓ Mirrors should be clean and adjusted properly from the

inside.

✓ Windshield should be clean with no illegal stickers, no

obstructions, or damage to the glass.

Emergency Equipment

✓ Check for spare electrical fuses.

✓ Check for three red reflective triangles and 6 fuses or

3 liquid burning flares.

✓ Check that the fire extinguisher is properly charged

and securely mounted.

Note: If the vehicle is not equipped with electrical fuses,

you must mention this to the examiner.

Wipers/Washers

✓ Check that wiper arms and blades are secure, not

damaged, and operate smoothly.

✓ If equipped, windshield washers must operate

correctly.

Lights/Reflectors/Reflector Tape Condition

(Sides & Rear)

✓ Test that dash indicators work when corresponding

lights are turned on:

• Left turn signal.

• Right turn signal.

• Four-way emergency flashers.

• High beam headlight.

• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) indicator.

✓ Check that all external lights and reflective equipment

are clean and functional and none or broken or

missing. Light and reflector checks include verification

of correct color:

• Clearance lights (red on rear, amber elsewhere).

• Headlights (high and low beams).

• Taillights.

• Backing lights.

• Turn signals.

• Four-way flashers.

• Brake lights.

• Red reflectors (on rear) and amber reflectors

(elsewhere).

• Reflector tape condition

Note: Checks of brake, turn signal and four-way flasher

functions must be done separately.

Horn

✓ Check that air horn and/or electric horn work.

Heater/Defroster

✓ Test that the heater and defroster work.

Parking Brake Check

✓ With air pressure built to governor cutout and the

parking brake engaged (trailer brakes released on

combination vehicles), check that the parking brake

will hold vehicle by gently trying to pull forward with

parking brake on.

✓ With air pressure built to governor cutout, the parking

brake released and the trailer parking brake engaged

(combination vehicles only), check that the trailer

parking brake will hold vehicle by gently trying to pull

forward with the trailer parking brake on.

Hydraulic Brake Check

✓ Pump the brake pedal three times, then hold it down

for five seconds. The brake pedal should not move

(depress) during the five seconds.

✓ If equipped with a hydraulic brake reserve (back-up)

system, with the key off, depress the brake pedal and

listen for the sound of the reserve system electric

motor.

✓ Check that the warning buzzer or light is off.

Air Brake Check (Air Brake Equipped

Vehicles Only)

Failure to perform all three components of the air brake

check correctly will result in an automatic failure of the

vehicle inspection test. Air brake safety devices vary.

However, this procedure is designed to see that any safety

device operates correctly as air pressure drops from

normal to a low air condition. For safety purposes, in areas

where an incline is present, you will use wheel chocks

during the air brake check. The proper procedures for

inspecting the air brake system are as follows:

✓ With the air pressure built up to governor cutoff (120 –

140 psi), shut off the engine leaving the key in the

“on” or “battery charge” position, chock your wheels if

necessary, release the parking brake (all vehicles),

and the tractor protection valve (combination vehicle)

and fully apply the foot brake. Hold the foot brake for

one minute. Check the air gauge to see if the air

pressure drops more than three pounds in one minute

(single vehicle) or four pounds in one minute

(combination vehicle).

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✓ Begin fanning off the air pressure by rapidly applying

and releasing the foot brake. Low air warning devices

(buzzer, light, flag) should activate before air pressure

drops below 55 psi or level specified by the

manufacturer.

✓ Continue to fan off the air pressure. At approximately

40 psi on a tractor-trailer combination vehicle (or level

specified by the manufacturer), the tractor protection

valve and parking brake valve should close (pop out).

On other combination vehicle types and single vehicle

types, the parking brake valve should close (pop out).

Service Brake Check

You will be required to check the application of air or

hydraulic service brakes. This procedure is designed to

determine that the brakes are working correctly and that

the vehicle does not pull to one side or the other.

Pull forward at 5 mph, apply the service brake and stop.

Check to see that the vehicle does not pull to either side

and that it stops when brake is applied.

Safety Belt

✓ Check that the safety belt is securely mounted,

adjusts, latches properly and is not ripped or frayed.

11.2 – External Inspection (All Vehicles)

11.2.1– Steering

Steering Box/Hoses

Check that the steering box is securely mounted and not

leaking. Look for any missing nuts and/or, bolts.

Check for power steering fluid leaks or damage to power

steering hoses.

Steering Linkage

See that connecting links, arms, and rods from the

steering box to the wheel are not worn or cracked.

Check that joints and sockets are not worn or loose and

that there are no missing nuts, bolts, or cotter keys.

11.2.2 – Suspension

Springs/Air/Torque

Look for missing, shifted, cracked, or broken leaf springs.

✓ Look for broken or distorted coil springs.

✓ If vehicle is equipped with torsion bars, torque arms, or

other types of suspension components, check that

they are not damaged and are mounted securely.

✓ Air ride suspension should be checked for damage

and leaks.

Mounts

✓ Look for cracked or broken spring hangers, missing or

damaged bushings, and broken, loose, or missing

bolts, u-bolts or other axle mounting parts. (The

mounts should be checked at each point where they

are secured to the vehicle frame and axle[s]).

Shock Absorbers

✓ See that shock absorbers are secure and that there

are no leaks.

Note: Be prepared to perform the same suspension

components inspection on every axle (power unit and

trailer, if equipped).

11.2.3 – Brakes

Slack Adjustors and Pushrods

✓ Look for broken, loose, or missing parts.

✓ For manual slack adjustors, the brake pushrod should

not move more than one inch (with the brakes

released) when pulled by hand.

Brake Chambers

✓ See that brake chambers are not leaking, cracked, or

dented and are mounted securely. There are no loose

or missing clamps.

Brake Hoses/Lines

✓ Look for cracked, worn, or leaking hoses, lines, and

couplings.

Drum Brake

✓ Check for cracks, dents, or holes. Also check for loose

or missing bolts.

✓ Check for contaminates such debris or oil/grease.

✓ Brake linings (where visible) should not be worn

dangerously thin.

Brake Linings

On some brake drums, there are openings where the

brake linings can be seen from outside the drum. For this

type of drum, check that a visible amount of brake lining is

showing.

Note: Be prepared to perform the same brake components

inspection on every axle (power unit and trailer, if

equipped).

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11.2.4 – Wheels

Rims

✓ Check for damaged or bent rims. Rims cannot have

welding repairs.

✓ Check rims for rust trails that may indicate the rim is

loose on the wheel.

Tires

The following items must be inspected on every tire:

✓ Tread depth: Check for minimum tread depth (4/32 on

steering axle tires, 2/32 on all other tires).

✓ Tire condition: Check that tread is evenly worn and

look for cuts or other damage to tread or sidewalls.

Also, make sure that valve caps and stems are not

missing, broken, or damaged.

✓ Tire inflation: Check for proper inflation by using a tire

gauge. Note: You will not get credit if you simply kick

the tires or use a mallet to check for proper inflation.

Hub Oil Seals/Axle Seals

✓ See that hub oil/grease seals and axle seals are not

leaking and, if wheel has a sight glass, oil level is

adequate.

Lug Nuts

✓ Check that all lug nuts are present, free of cracks and

distortions, and show no signs of looseness such as

rust trails or shiny threads.

✓ Make sure all bolt holes are not cracked or distorted.

Spacers or Budd Spacing

✓ If equipped, check that spacers are not bent,

damaged, or rusted through; and are centered with

dual tires evenly separated.

✓ Check the space between the tires for debris and/or

foreign objects.

Note: Be prepared to perform the same wheel inspection

on every axle (power unit and trailer, if equipped).

11.2.5 – Side of Vehicle

Door(s)/Mirror(s)

✓ Check that door(s) are not damaged and that they

open and close properly from the outside.

✓ Hinges should be secure with seals intact.

✓ Check that mirror(s) and mirror brackets are not

damaged and are mounted securely with no loose

fittings.

Fuel Tank

✓ Check that tank(s) are secure, cap(s) are tight, and

that there are no leaks from tank(s) or lines.

Drive Shaft

✓ See that drive shaft is not bent or cracked.

✓ Couplings should be secure and free of foreign

objects.

Exhaust System

✓ Check system for damage and signs of leaks such as

rust or carbon soot. Exhaust system should not have

cracks, holes or severe dents

✓ System should be connected tightly and mounted

securely.

Frame

✓ Look for cracks, broken welds, holes or other damage

to the longitudinal frame members, cross members,

box, and floor.

11.2.6 – Rear of Vehicle

Splash Guards

✓ If equipped, check that splash guards or mud flaps are

not damaged and are mounted securely.

Doors/Ties/Lifts

✓ Check that doors and hinges are not damaged and

that they open, close, and latch properly from the

outside, if equipped.

✓ Ties, straps, chains, and binders must also be secure.

✓ If equipped with a cargo lift, look for leaking, damaged

or missing parts and explain how it should be checked

for correct operation.

✓ Lift must be fully retracted and latched securely.

11.2.7 – Tractor/Coupling

Air/Electric Lines

✓ Listen for air leaks. Check that air hoses and electrical

lines are not cut, chafed, spliced, or worn (steel braid

should not show through).

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Section 11 – Vehicle Inspection Test 135

✓ Make sure air and electrical lines are not tangled,

pinched, or dragging against tractor parts.

Catwalk/Steps

✓ Check that the catwalk is solid, clear of objects, and

securely bolted to tractor frame.

✓ Check that steps leading to the cab entry and catwalk

(if equipped) are solid, clear of objects, and securely

bolted to tractor frame.

Mounting Bolts

✓ Look for loose or missing mounting brackets, clamps,

bolts, or nuts. Both the fifth wheel and the slide

mounting must be solidly attached.

✓ Check for loose or missing mounting bolts and for

broken welds for pintle hook or other type of hitch

mount, and tongue/draw-bar assembly to ensure that

they are solidly attached in place.

✓ On other types of coupling systems (i.e., ball hitch,

pintle hook, etc.), inspect all coupling components and

mounting brackets for missing or broken parts.

Hitch Release Lever

✓ Check to see that the hitch release lever is in place

and is secure.

Locking Jaws

✓ Look into fifth wheel gap and check that locking jaws

are fully closed around the kingpin.

✓ On other types of coupling systems (i.e., ball hitch,

pintle hook, etc.), inspect the locking mechanism for

missing or broken parts and make sure it is locked

securely. If present, safety cables or chains must be

secure and free of kinks and excessive slack.

Wheel Skid Plate

✓ Check for proper lubrication and that 5

wheel skid

plate is securely mounted to the platform and that all

bolts and pins are secure and not missing.

Platform (Fifth Wheel)

✓ Check for cracks or breaks in the platform structure

which supports the fifth wheel skid plate.

Release Arm (Fifth Wheel)

✓ If equipped, make sure the release arm is in the

engaged position and the safety latch is in place.

Kingpin/Apron/Gap

✓ Explain that locking jaws holds kingpin in place and that

the kingpin is not bent or damaged.

✓ Make sure the visible part of the apron is not bent,

cracked, or broken.

✓ Check that the trailer is lying flat on the fifth wheel skid

plate (no gap).

✓ Check for kingpin lock.

Locking Pins (Fifth Wheel)

✓ If equipped, look for loose or missing pins in the slide

mechanism of the sliding fifth wheel. If air powered,

check for leaks.

✓ Make sure locking pins are fully engaged.

✓ Check that the fifth wheel is positioned properly so that

the tractor frame will clear the landing gear during turns.

Sliding Pintle

✓ Check the sliding pintle hook for excessive wear and to

ensure it is secure with no loose or missing nuts or

bolts and cotter pin is in place.

Tongue or Draw-bar

✓ Check that the tongue/draw-bar is not bent or twisted

and checks for broken welds and stress cracks.

✓ Check that the tongue/draw-bar eye is not worn

excessively.

Tongue Storage Area

✓ Check that the storage area is solid and secured to the

tongue.

✓ Check that cargo in the storage area i.e. chains,

binders, etc. are secure.

11.3 – School Bus Only

Emergency Equipment

✓ In addition to checking for spare electrical fuses (if

equipped), three red reflective triangles, 6 fuses or 3

liquid burning flares and a properly charged and rated

fire extinguisher, school bus drivers must also inspect

the following emergency equipment:

• Emergency Kit

• Body Fluid Cleanup Kit

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136 Section 11 – Vehicle Inspection Test

Lighting Indicators

✓ In addition to checking the lighting indicators listed in

Section 10.2 of this manual, school bus drivers must

also check the following lighting indicators (internal

panel lights):

• Alternately flashing amber lights indicator, if

equipped.

• Alternately flashing red lights indicator.

• Strobe light indicator, if equipped.

Lights/Reflectors

✓ In addition to checking the lights and reflective devices

listed in Section 10.2 of this manual, school bus

drivers must also check the following (external) lights

and reflectors:

• Strobe light, if equipped is operational and is not

broken.

• Stop arm light, if equipped.

• Alternately flashing amber lights, if equipped are

operational and not broken.

• Alternately flashing red lights, on both the front

and back of the vehicle are operational and not

broken.

Student Mirrors

✓ In addition to checking the external mirrors, school bus

drivers must also check the internal and external

mirrors used for observing students:

• Check for proper adjustment.

• Checks that all internal and external mirrors and

mirror brackets are not damaged and are mounted

securely with no loose fittings.

• Checks that visibility is not impaired due to dirty

mirrors.

Stop Arm/Safety Arm

✓ If equipped, check the stop arm to see that it is

mounted securely to the frame of the vehicle. Also,

check for loose fittings and damage. Check that stop

arm extends fully when operated.

Passenger Entry/Lift

✓ Check that the entry door is not damaged, operates

smoothly, and closes securely from the inside.

✓ Hand rails are secure and the step light is working, if

equipped.

✓ The entry steps must be clear with the treads not loose

or worn excessively.

✓ If equipped with a handicap lift, look for leaking,

damaged, or missing parts and explain how lift should

be checked for correct operation. Lift must be fully

retracted and latched securely.

Emergency Exit

✓ Demonstrate that at least one emergency exit is not

damaged, operates smoothly, and closes securely

from the inside.

✓ Check that release handle can be operated properly

from both inside and outside the vehicle.

✓ Point out and describe how all other emergency exits

operate.

✓ Check that any emergency exit warning devices are

working properly.

Seating

✓ Look for broken seat frames and check that seat

frames are firmly attached to the floor.

✓ Check that seat cushions are attached securely to the

seat frames.

11.4 – Trailer

11.4.1 – Trailer Front

Air/Electrical Connections

✓ Check that trailer air connectors are sealed and in

good condition.

✓ Make sure glad hands are locked in place, free of

damage or air leaks.

✓ Make sure the trailer electrical plug is firmly seated

and locked in place.

Header Board

✓ If equipped, check the header board to see that it is

secure, free of damage, and strong enough to contain

cargo.

✓ If equipped, the canvas or tarp carrier must be

mounted and fastened securely.

✓ On enclosed trailers, check the front area for signs of

damage such as cracks, bulges, or holes.

11.4.2 – Side of Trailer

Landing Gear

✓ Check that the landing gear is fully raised, has no

missing parts, crank handle is secure, and the support

frame and landing pads are not damaged.

✓ If power operated, check for air or hydraulic leaks.

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Section 11 – Vehicle Inspection Test 137

Doors/Ties/Lifts

✓ If equipped, check that doors are not damaged. Check

that doors open, close, and latch properly from the

outside.

✓ Check that ties, straps, chains, and binders are

secure.

✓ If equipped with a cargo lift, look for leaking, damaged

or missing parts and explain how it should be checked

for correct operation.

✓ Lift should be fully retracted and latched securely.

Frame

✓ Look for cracks, broken welds, holes or other damage

to the frame, cross members, box, and floor.

Tandem Release Arm/Locking Pins

✓ If equipped, make sure the locking pins are locked in

place and release arm is secured.

11.4.3 – Remainder of Trailer

Remainder of Trailer

Please refer to Section 11.2 of this manual for detailed

inspection procedures regarding the following

components:

✓ Wheels.

✓ Suspension system.

✓ Brakes.

✓ Doors/ties/lift.

✓ Splash guards.

11.5 – Coach/Transit Bus

11.5.1 – Passenger Items

Passenger Entry/Lift

✓ Check that entry doors operate smoothly and close

securely from the inside.

✓ Check that hand rails are secure and, if equipped, that

the step light(s) are working.

✓ Check that the entry steps are clear, with the treads

not loose or worn excessively.

✓ If equipped with a handicap lift, look for any leaking,

damaged or missing part, and explain how it should be

checked for correct operation.

✓ Lift should be fully retracted and latched securely.

Emergency Exits

✓ Make sure that all emergency exits are not damaged,

operate smoothly, and close securely from the inside.

✓ Check that any emergency exit warning devices are

working.

Passenger Seating

Look for broken seat frames and check that seat frames

are firmly attached to the floor.

Check that seat cushions are attached securely to the seat

frames.

11.5.2 – Entry/Exit

Doors/Mirrors

✓ Check that entry/exit doors are not damaged and

operate smoothly from the outside. Hinges should be

secure with seals intact.

✓ Make sure that the passenger exit mirrors and all

external mirrors and mirror brackets are not damaged

and are mounted securely with no loose fittings.

11.5.3 – External Inspection of Coach/Transit

Bus

Level/Air Leaks

✓ See that the vehicle is sitting level (front and rear), and

if air-equipped, check for audible air leaks from the

suspension system.

Fuel Tank(s)

✓ See that fuel tank(s) are secure with no leaks from

tank(s) or lines.

Baggage Compartments

✓ Check that baggage and all other exterior

compartment doors are not damaged, operate

properly, and latch securely.

11.5.4 – Remainder of Coach/Transit Bus

Remainder of Vehicle

Please refer to Section 11.2 of this manual for detailed

inspection procedures for the remainder of the vehicle.

Remember, the Vehicle Inspection must be passed before

you can proceed to the Basic Control Skills test.

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138 Section 11 – Vehicle Inspection Test

CDL Vehicle Inspection Memory Aid

Combination Vehicles Straight Truck or Bus

Front of Vehicle, Lights/Reflectors,

Engine Compartment & Steering

Components

Steering Axle:

•

Suspension

• Brakes

• Tires

Driver Door

Fuel Area

Under Vehicle

• Drive Shaft

• Exhaust

• Frame

Drive Axle(s)

• Suspension

• Brakes

• Tires

Coupling Devices

• Truck

• Trailer

Trailer Components

Front, Side, Lights &

Reflectors

• Frame

• Landing Gear

• Tandem Release

Rear of Truck/Tractor

& Lights/Reflectors

Trailer Axle(s)

• Suspension

• Brakes

• Tires

Rear of Trailer &

Lights/Reflectors

Front of Vehicle, Lights/Reflectors,

Engine Compartment & Steering

Components

Steering Axle:

• Suspension

• Brakes

• Tires

Driver Door

Fuel Area

(Truck)

Passenger Door

Fuel Area

Under Vehicle

• Drive Shaft

• Exhaust

• Frame

Drive Axle(s)

• Suspension

• Brakes

• Tires

Rear of Bus/Truck

& Lights/Reflectors

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 12 - Basic Vehicle Control Skills Test 139

Section 12

Basic Vehicle Control Skills Test

This Section Covers:

✓ Skills Test Scoring

✓ Skills Test Exercises

Your basic control skills could be tested using one or

more of the following exercises off-road or somewhere

on the street during the road test:

✓ Straight line backing.

✓ Offset back/right.

✓ Offset back/left.

✓ Alley dock.

These exercises are shown in Figures 12-1 through

12-6.

12.1 Scoring

✓ Crossing Boundaries (encroachments)

✓ Pull-ups

✓ Outside Vehicle Observations (looks)

✓ Final Position/Inside Parallel

Encroachments

The examiner will score the number of times you touch

or cross over an exercise boundary line or cone with any

portion of your vehicle. Each encroachment will count as

an error.

Pull-ups

When a driver stops and pulls forward to clear an

encroachment or to get a better position, it is scored as a

“pull-up”. Stopping without changing direction does not

count as a pull-up. You will not be penalized for initial

pull-ups. However, an excessive number of pull-ups will

count as errors.

Outside Vehicle Observations (Looks)

You may be permitted to safely stop and exit the vehicle

to check the external position of the vehicle (look).

When doing so, you must place the vehicle in neutral

and set the parking brake(s). Then, when exiting the

vehicle, you must do so safely by facing the vehicle and

maintaining three points of contact with the vehicle at all

times (when exiting a bus, maintain a firm grasp on the

handrail at all times). If you do not safely secure the

vehicle or safely exit the vehicle it may result in an

automatic failure of the basic control skills test.

The maximum number of times that you may look to

check the position of you vehicle is two (2) except for the

Straight Line Backing exercise, which allows one look.

Each time you open the door, move from a seated

position where in physical control of the vehicle or on a

bus walk to the back of a bus to get a better view, it is

scored as a “look”.

Final Position/Inside Parallel

It is important that you finish each exercise exactly as

the examiner has instructed you. If you do not maneuver

the vehicle into its final position as described by the

examiner, you will be penalized and could fail the basic

skills test.

12.2 Exercises

12.2.1 – Straight Line Backing

You may be asked to back your vehicle in a straight line

between two rows of cones without touching or crossing

over the exercise boundaries. (See Figure 12.1)

12.2.2 – Offset Back/Right

You may be asked to back into a space that is to the

right rear of your vehicle. You will drive straight forward

the outer boundary. From that position you must back

the vehicle into the opposite lane until the front of your

vehicle has passed the first set of cones without striking

boundary lines or cones. (See Figure 12.2)

12.2.3 – Offset Back/Left

You may be asked to back into a space that is to the left

rear of your vehicle. You will drive straight forward the

outer boundary. From that position, you must back the

vehicle into the opposite lane until the front of your

vehicle has passed the first set of cones without striking

boundary lines or cones. (See Figure 12.3)

12.2.4 – Alley Dock

You may be asked to sight-side back your vehicle into

an alley. You will drive past the alley and position your

vehicle parallel to the outer boundary. From that

position, back into the alley bringing the rear of your

vehicle within three feet of the rear of the alley without

touching boundary lines or cones. Your vehicle must be

straight within the alley/lane when you have completed

the maneuver. (See Figure 12.4)

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140 Section 12 – Basic Vehicle Control Skills Test

Figure 12.1: Straight Line Backing

Figure 12.2: Offset Back/Right

Figure 12.3: Offset Back/Left

Figure 12.4: Alley Dock

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 13 – On-road Driving 141

Section 13

On-road Driving

This Section Covers:

✓ How You Will Be Tested

You will drive over a test route that has a variety of traffic

situations. At all times during the test, you must drive in a

safe and responsible manner; and you must:

✓ Wear your safety belt.

✓ Obey all traffic signs, signals, and laws.

✓ Complete the test without an accident or moving

violation.

During the driving test, the examiner will be scoring you on

specific driving maneuvers as well as on your general

driving behavior. You will follow the directions of the

examiner. Directions will be given to you so you will have

plenty of time to do what the examiner has asked. You will

not be asked to drive in an unsafe manner.

If your test route does not have certain traffic situations, you

may be asked to simulate a traffic situation. You will do this

by telling the examiner what you are or would be doing if

you were in that traffic situation.

13.1 – How You Will Be Tested

13.1.1 – Turns

You have been asked to make a turn:

✓ Check traffic in all directions.

✓ Use turn signals and safely get into the lane needed

for the turn.

As you approach the turn:

✓ Use turn signals to warn others of your turn.

✓ Slow down smoothly, change gears as needed to keep

power, but do not coast unsafely. Unsafe coasting

occurs when your vehicle is out of gear (clutch

depressed or gearshift in neutral) for more than the

length of your vehicle.

If you must stop before making the turn:

✓ Come to a smooth stop without skidding.

✓ Come to a complete stop behind the stop line,

crosswalk, or stop sign.

✓ If stopping behind another vehicle, stop where you can

see the rear tires on the vehicle ahead of you (safe

gap).

✓ Do not let your vehicle roll.

✓ Keep the front wheels aimed straight ahead.

When ready to turn:

✓ Check traffic in all directions.

✓ Keep both hands on the steering wheel during the

turn.

✓ Keep checking your mirror to make sure the vehicle

does not hit anything on the inside of the turn.

✓ Vehicle should not move into oncoming traffic.

✓ Vehicle should finish turn in correct lane.

After turn:

✓ Make sure turn signal is off.

✓ Get up to speed of traffic, use turn signal, and move

into right-most lane when safe to do so (if not already

there).

✓ Check mirrors and traffic.

13.1.2 – Intersections

As you approach an intersection:

✓ Check traffic thoroughly in all directions.

✓ Decelerate gently.

✓ Brake smoothly and, if necessary, change gears.

✓ If necessary, come to a complete stop (no coasting)

behind any stop signs, signals, sidewalks, or stop lines

maintaining a safe gap behind any vehicle in front of

you.

✓ Your vehicle must not roll forward or backward.

When driving through an intersection:

✓ Check traffic thoroughly in all directions.

✓ Decelerate and yield to any pedestrians and traffic in

the intersection.

✓ Do not change lanes while proceeding through the

intersection.

✓ Keep your hands on the wheel.

Once through the intersection:

✓ Continue checking mirrors and traffic.

✓ Accelerate smoothly and change gears as necessary.

13.1.3 – Urban Business

During this part of the test, you are expected to make

regular traffic checks and maintain a safe following

distance. Your vehicle should be centered in the proper lane

(right-most lane) and you should keep up with the flow of

traffic but not exceed the posted speed limit.

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142 Section 13 – On-road Driving

13.1.4 –Lane Changes

During multiple lane portions of the test, you will be asked

to change lanes to the left, and then back to the right. You

should make the necessary traffic checks first, then use

proper signals and smoothly change lanes when it is safe to

do so.

13.1.5 – Expressway or Rural/Limited Access

Highway

Before entering the expressway:

✓ Check traffic.

✓ Use proper signals.

✓ Merge smoothly into the proper lane of traffic.

Once on the expressway:

✓ Maintain proper lane positioning, vehicle spacing, and

vehicle speed.

✓ Continue to check traffic thoroughly in all directions.

When exiting the expressway:

✓ Make necessary traffic checks.

✓ Use proper signals.

✓ Decelerate smoothly in the exit lane.

✓ Once on the exit ramp, you must continue to decelerate

within the lane markings and maintain adequate

spacing between your vehicle and other vehicles.

13.1.6 – Stop/Start

For this maneuver, you will be asked to pull your vehicle

over to the side of the road and stop as if you were going to

get out and check something on your vehicle. You must

check traffic thoroughly in all directions and move to the

right-most lane or shoulder of road.

As you prepare for the stop:

✓ Check traffic.

✓ Activate your right turn signal.

✓ Decelerate smoothly, brake evenly, change gears as

necessary.

✓ Bring your vehicle to a full stop without coasting.

Once stopped:

✓ Vehicle must be parallel to the curb or shoulder of the

road and safely out of the traffic flow.

✓ Vehicle should not be blocking driveways, fire hydrants,

intersections, signs, etc.

✓ Cancel your turn signal.

✓ Activate your four-way emergency flashers.

✓ Apply the parking brake.

✓ Move the gear shift to neutral or park.

✓ Remove your feet from the brake and clutch pedals.

When instructed to resume:

✓ Check traffic and your mirrors thoroughly in all

directions.

✓ Turn off your four-way flashers.

✓ Activate the left turn signal.

✓ When traffic permits, you should release the parking

brake and pull straight ahead.

✓ Do not turn the wheel before your vehicle moves.

✓ Check traffic from all directions, especially to the left.

✓ Steer and accelerate smoothly into the proper lane

when safe to do so.

✓ Once your vehicle is back into the flow of traffic, cancel

your left turn signal.

13.1.7 – Curve

When approaching a curve:

✓ Check traffic thoroughly in all directions.

✓ Before entering the curve, reduce speed so further

braking or shifting is not required in the curve.

✓ Keep vehicle in the lane.

✓ Continue checking traffic in all directions.

13.1.8 – Railroad Crossing

Before reaching the crossing, all commercial drivers should:

✓ Decelerate, brake smoothly, and shift gears as

necessary.

✓ Look and listen for the presence of trains.

✓ Check traffic in all directions.

✓ Do not stop, change gears, pass another vehicle, or

change lanes while any part of your vehicle is in the

crossing.

If you are driving a bus, a school bus, or a vehicle displaying

placards, you should be prepared to observe the following

procedures at every railroad crossing (unless the crossing

is exempt):

✓ As the vehicle approaches a railroad crossing, activate

the four-way flashers.

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Section 13 – On-road Driving 143

✓ Stop the vehicle within 50 feet but not less than 15 feet

from the nearest rail.

✓ Listen and look in both directions along the track for an

approaching train and for signals indicating the

approach of a train. If operating a bus, you may also

be required to open the window and door prior to

crossing tracks.

✓ Keep hands on the steering wheel as the vehicle

crosses the tracks.

✓ Do not stop, change gears, or change lanes while any

part of your vehicle is proceeding across the tracks.

✓ Four-way flashers should be deactivated after the

vehicle crosses the tracks.

✓ Continue to check mirrors and traffic.

Not all driving road test routes will have a railroad crossing.

You may be asked to explain and demonstrate the proper

railroad crossing procedures to the examiner at a simulated

location.

13.1.9 – Bridge/Overpass/Sign

After driving under an overpass, you may be asked to tell

the examiner what the posted clearance or height was. After

going over a bridge, you may be asked to tell the examiner

what the posted weight limit was. If your test route does not

have a bridge or overpass, you may be asked about another

traffic sign. When asked, be prepared to identify and explain

to the examiner any traffic sign which may appear on the

route.

13.1.10 – Student Discharge (School Bus)

If you are applying for a School Bus endorsement, you will

be required to demonstrate a student discharge. Please

refer to section 10 of this manual.

As you approach the student pick up, you must:

✓ Decelerate and approach at a slow rate of speed while

continuing to check traffic.

✓ Activate amber warning lights and right turn signals.

✓ Move as far as possible to the right on the traveled

portion of the roadway.

✓ Recheck traffic.

As you stop for the student discharge, you must:

✓ Bring school bus to a complete stop at least 10’ away

from students at the stop.

✓ Place the transmission in neutral/park and set the

parking brake.

✓ Activate the stop arm and red warning lights.

When discharging students, you must:

✓ Communicate to students.

✓ Check traffic.

✓ Open the student door.

✓ Check for students.

When students are crossing, you must:

✓ Check traffic.

✓ Communicate to students.

✓ Check for students.

When resuming from the student discharge, you must:

✓ Check all mirrors.

✓ Turn off warning lights and stop arm.

✓ Close the door

✓ Check traffic.

✓ Accelerate away from the stop area.

13.1.11 – General Driving Behaviors

You will be scored on your overall performance in the

following general driving behavior categories:

13.1.11(a) – Clutch Usage (for Manual

Transmission)

✓ Always use clutch to shift.

✓ If equipped with an unsynchronized manual

transmission, you must double-clutch when shifting.

Do not rev or lug the engine.

✓ Do not ride clutch to control speed, coast with the

clutch depressed, or "pop" the clutch.

13.1.11(b) – Gear Usage (for Manual

Transmission)

✓ Do not grind or clash gears.

✓ Select gear that does not rev or lug engine.

✓ Do not shift in turns and intersections.

13.1.11(c) – Brake Usage

✓ Do not ride or pump brake.

✓ Do not brake harshly. Brake smoothly using steady

pressure.

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144 Section 13 – On-road Driving

13.1.11(d) – Lane Usage

✓ Do not put vehicle over curbs, sidewalks, or lane

markings.

✓ Stop behind stop lines, crosswalks, or stop signs.

✓ Complete a turn in the proper lane on a multiple lane

road (vehicle should finish a left turn in the lane

directly to the right of the center line).

✓ Finish a right turn in the right-most (curb) lane.

✓ Move to or remain in right-most lane unless lane is

blocked.

13.1.11(e) – Steering

✓ Do not over or under steer the vehicle.

✓ Keep both hands on the steering wheel at all times

unless shifting. Once you have completed shift, return

both hands to the steering wheel.

13.1.11(f) – Regular Traffic Checks

✓ Check traffic regularly.

✓ Check mirrors regularly.

✓ Check mirrors and traffic before, while in and after an

intersection.

✓ Scan and check traffic in high volume areas and areas

where pedestrians are expected to be present.

13.1.11(g) – Use of Turn Signals

✓ Use turn signals properly.

✓ Activate turn signals when required.

✓ Activate turn signals at appropriate times.

✓ Cancel turn signals upon completion of a turn or lane

change.

Road Skills Test Time Estimates (scored)

TEST TYPE

Vehicle Inspection

Basic Control Skills

On-Street Driving Test

Total Time

CDL Group A

1 - 2 hours

20 - 30 minutes

40 minutes – 1 hour

2 - 3.5 hours

CDL Group B

30 - 60 minutes

20 - 30 minutes

40 - 60 minutes

1.5 – 2.5 hours

CDL Group C

20 - 30 minutes

40 - 60 minutes

1.5 – 2 hours

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Appendix A – Applying for a Commercial Driver License 145

Appendix A

Applying for a Commercial Driver License

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

146 Appendix A – Applying for a Commercial Driver License

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Appendix A – Applying for a Commercial Driver License 147

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

148 Appendix B – Sample Test Questions

Appendix B

Sample Test Questions

1. Which of these is a good thing to remember about using mirrors?

A. You should check your mirrors twice for a lane change.

B. There are “blind spots” that your mirror cannot show you.

C. Convex mirrors make things look larger and closer than they really are.

D. You should look at a mirror for several seconds at a time.

2. You are coupling a tractor and semi-trailer and have connected the air lines. Before backing under the trailer

you should:

A. Pull ahead to test the glad hand connections.

B. Apply the brakes twice to alert others.

C. Supply air to the trailer system and then pull out the air supply knob to lock the trailer brakes.

D. Make sure that the trailer brakes are off.

3. Which part of the kingpin should the locking jaws close around?

A. It does not matter.

B. The base.

C. The head.

D. The shank.

4. You must be able to see a warning before air pressure in the service air tanks falls below psi.

A. 50

B. 40

C. 80

D. 60

5. Which of these is not a good thing to do when driving on slippery roads?

A. Make turns as gently as possible.

B. Keep other traffic out of your side space.

C. Use a light touch on the accelerator and brake pedals.

D. Use the engine brake or speed retarder.

6. When there is a hazardous materials emergency, you should:

A. Prevent smoking and keep open flame away.

B. Keep people away.

C. Warn others of the danger.

D. Do all of the above.

7. When you unload the smaller tanks of a tank with bulkheads, be careful to check your:

A. Power usage.

B. Water content.

C. Air to fuel ratio.

D. Weight Distribution

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Appendix C – CDL Vehicle Inspection Memory Aid 149

Appendix C

CDL Vehicle Inspection Memory Aid

Combination Vehicles Straight Truck or Bus

Front of Vehicle, Lights/Reflectors,

Engine Compartment & Steering

Components

Steering Axle:

•

Suspension

• Brakes

• Tires

Driver Door

Fuel Area

Under Vehicle

• Drive Shaft

• Exhaust

• Frame

Drive Axle(s)

• Suspension

• Brakes

• Tires

Coupling Devices

• Truck

• Trailer

Trailer Components

Front, Side, Lights &

Reflectors

• Frame

• Landing Gear

• Tandem Release

Rear of Truck/Tractor

& Lights/Reflectors

Trailer Axle(s)

• Suspension

• Brakes

• Tires

Rear of Trailer &

Lights/Reflectors

Front of Vehicle, Lights/Reflectors,

Engine Compartment & Steering

Components

Steering Axle:

• Suspension

• Brakes

• Tires

Driver Door

Fuel Area

(Truck)

Passenger Door

Fuel Area

Under Vehicle

• Drive Shaft

• Exhaust

• Frame

Drive Axle(s)

• Suspension

• Brakes

• Tires

Rear of Bus/Truck

& Lights/Reflectors

NOTES

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NOTES

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NOTES

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NOTES

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NOTES

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The Department of State is an equal opportunity employer and service provider. If you

need an accommodation or have been denied service, please call 888-SOS-MICH

(767-6424). Hearing-impaired customers may access the department’s telephone

number by calling the Michigan Relay Center at 711.

TS-004 (Rev. 09/22)

60,002; PA 300, 1949 as amended; $47,810.65

Cover photo courtesy of the Michigan Department of Transportation Photography Unit.

Secretary of State

Jocelyn Benson

Michigan.gov/SOS