Las Americas Trucking School General Knowledge Flashcards

Practice questions and answers based on the Las Americas Trucking School General Knowledge tests, covering safety, regulations, and maintenance.

In a pressurized cooling system, when can the coolant level be checked while the engine is hot?

You can check the coolant level of a hot engine if the container is part of a pressurized system.

What is a key safety rule for driving at night regarding stopping distance?

Keep your speed slow enough that you can stop within the range of your headlights.

How can the tachometer be utilized during shifting and double-clutching?

The tachometer can tell you when to shift.

If you must drive through deep puddles, what step helps keep the brakes working?

Gently putting on the brakes while driving through the water.

What does the term 'stab braking' involve?

Applying the brakes and releasing them after the wheels lock up.

What is the legal meaning of 'implied consent' in trucking?

You have given your consent to be tested for alcohol in your blood.

Which brake system should be tested while the vehicle is stopped?

The parking brake.

What is true about completing a written vehicle inspection report each day?

You must sign the previous driver's report when any defects are noted.

What is a common characteristic of a front tire failure?

The steering wheel twisting.

What is the proper way to hold a steering wheel?

With both hands, on opposite sides of the wheel.

When should mirrors be adjusted?

Prior to starting a trip.

What is the definition of countersteering?

Turning the wheel back in the other direction after steering to avoid a traffic emergency.

When making a turn that requires crossing into the oncoming lane, what should you do?

Allow enough space to get completely across the intersection.

What is 'defensive driving'?

The practice where the best drivers watch and prepare for hazards.

If you do not have a CB radio, what is the first thing you should do at an accident scene?

Protect the area.

What is the purpose of 'controlled braking'?

It is used to keep a vehicle in a straight line when braking.

Why do dry bulk tanks require special care?

The load can shift.

For a $40$-foot vehicle driving at $35\text{ mph}$ on a dry road, what is the least amount of space to keep in front?

$4\text{ seconds}$.

Whenever you double your speed, it takes about how many times as much distance to stop?

$4$ times.

What is 'perception distance'?

The distance the vehicle travels from the time the eyes see a hazard to the time the brain knows it is a hazard.

Why is a broken exhaust system dangerous?

Poison fumes could enter the cab or sleeper berth.

What is the primary purpose of retarders?

To help slow the vehicle while driving and reduce brake wear.

What should you do to help keep an engine cool in hot weather?

Make sure the engine has the right amount of oil.

What should you do if your vehicle hydroplanes?

Release the accelerator.

What gear should be used to take a long, steep downhill grade in a truck with a manual transmission?

A lower gear than you would use to climb the hill.

How should a rear-wheel braking skid be corrected?

Stop accelerating.

How far ahead should a driver look while driving?

$12$ to $15\text{ seconds}$.

What is the total stopping distance for a vehicle traveling at $55\text{ mph}$ on dry pavement?

The length of a football field.

How often must CDL medical certificates be renewed?

Every $2\text{ years}$.

What is the penalty for a first offense of driving a commercial vehicle under the influence?

Losing your CDL for at least $1\text{ year}$.

When are placards required to be placed on a vehicle hauling hazardous materials?

Placards must be placed on all four sides of the vehicle.

What is the first thing you should do if your brakes fail while going down a hill?

Get off the road as soon as possible.

What is the consequence of doubling your speed in terms of destructive power during a crash?

The vehicle has about $4$ times the destructive power.