Delaware CDL Passenger flashcards

32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

Pre-trip inspection purpose

To find defects before passengers board. Check tires, brakes, lights, horn, mirrors, wipers, seats, and emergency exits, and confirm repairs before the vehicle is placed in service.

Railroad crossing stop distance

Stop 15 to 50 feet before the nearest rail when a stop is required, such as a passenger vehicle carrying passengers at a non-exempt crossing, so you can see and hear approaching trains.

Crossing gear rule

Never shift gears while crossing the tracks. Select the proper gear before entering the crossing so both hands stay on the wheel and the vehicle keeps moving without stalling.

Passenger count procedure

Count passengers as they board and count again after they exit. This prevents leaving someone behind at a stop and confirms everyone is accounted for after an evacuation.

Following distance loaded vehicle

A loaded passenger vehicle needs more stopping distance, so increase the following gap beyond the minimum and add more space in rain, at night, or on downgrades.

Unloading at a stop

Stop in a safe location, use warning flashers, and watch for passengers crossing in front of or behind the vehicle. Do not move until all exiting passengers are clear.

Standing passenger rule

Standing riders are allowed only where seats, handholds, and local rules permit. Never exceed the vehicle's rated capacity, and keep the aisle clear for movement and evacuation.

Defect reporting before departure

A vehicle with a known unsafe condition must not carry passengers. Report the defect, document it, and keep the vehicle out of service until the problem is repaired.

Pre-trip inspection areas

The inspection covers the engine compartment, a walk-around exterior check, and in-cab items. Defects are documented and repairs confirmed before departure with passengers aboard.

Safety belt responsibility

Where belts are provided, the driver ensures each passenger is seated and belted and announces the requirement before the vehicle moves. The driver also wears a belt.

Prohibited passenger practices

Carrying riders in spaces not designed for them, standing in prohibited areas, and operating with an open or unsecured emergency exit are prohibited and unsafe.

Emergency exit requirements

Each exit must be marked, unobstructed, and operable from inside. Verify every exit during the pre-trip, and keep aisles and exit paths clear at all times.

Emergency equipment location

Know where the fire extinguisher and first aid kit are and how to use them. Be able to explain exit handle operation to passengers before an emergency occurs.

Baggage and cargo security

Secure all baggage and cargo so it cannot shift into the aisle or strike passengers during a stop or evasive maneuver. Loose items become dangerous projectiles in a sudden stop.

Unattended running vehicle

Never leave passengers unattended in a running vehicle. An unattended vehicle can roll, overheat, or be entered by unauthorized persons, endangering everyone aboard.

Evacuation accountability

After evacuation, move passengers a safe distance from the vehicle and count them. Account for every person before releasing them or handing responsibility to emergency responders.

Smoking and open flame ban

Smoking, open flames, and hazardous materials are prohibited aboard a passenger vehicle. These create fire and health hazards in an enclosed space with limited exits.

Passenger briefing content

Before departure, tell passengers where emergency exits are, how to use them, and where the fire extinguisher is located. A brief, clear announcement improves evacuation speed.

Low air pressure warning

A buzzer or light must activate before pressure falls below 60 psi. If the warning does not sound, the vehicle is unsafe and must be placed out of service.

Governor cut-in and cut-out

The compressor cuts in near 100 psi and cuts out near 125 psi. Pressure should build from 85 to 100 psi within 45 seconds at a fast idle.

Static leak test limits

With the engine off and service brakes released, pressure should not drop more than 3 psi in one minute for a single vehicle, or 4 psi with a trailer.

Applied leak test limits

With the engine off and the service brake applied, leakage should not exceed 4 psi in one minute for a single vehicle, or 6 psi with a trailer.

Spring brake application range

Spring parking brakes apply automatically when pressure drops to between 20 and 45 psi. Test by fanning down pressure and observing push rod movement or hearing the valves.

Safety valve setting

The safety valve releases at about 150 psi. A valve that opens at a lower pressure or fails to reseat indicates a defect requiring repair before service.

Parking brake test

Set the parking brake, release the service brake, and pull gently against it in a low gear. The vehicle must not move if the parking brake holds properly.

Brake fade prevention

Brake early with steady pressure and avoid riding or fanning the brakes on long downgrades. Select a lower gear before the descent so the engine helps control speed.

Alcohol evaporator purpose

An alcohol evaporator adds alcohol to the air system to prevent moisture from freezing in valves and lines during cold weather, keeping brakes functional.

Air compressor function

The engine-driven compressor supplies pressurized air to the tanks. A weak compressor causes slow pressure buildup and low pressure, which weakens braking performance.

Drain air tanks daily

Drain moisture from air tanks at the end of each day. Water in the system can freeze, corrode valves, and reduce braking effectiveness in cold conditions.

Dual air brake system

A dual system has two separate circuits so one can still stop the vehicle if the other fails. Know which warning applies to each circuit on your vehicle.

Fanning the brakes

Fanning means repeatedly applying and releasing the brakes, which wastes air pressure. It is unsafe on long downgrades; use a lower gear and steady braking instead.

Air brake pre-trip sequence

Check warning signal, compressor buildup, static and applied leakage, spring brake application, and parking brake hold. Any failed check keeps the vehicle out of service.