Basic Control of Your Vehicle
What this domain tests
Basic Control tests starting, steering, stopping, backing, and turning a large vehicle without losing control. The exam emphasizes mirror use, blind spots, smooth inputs, and the rear-wheel path.
Core rules
- Keep both hands on the wheel and steer smoothly; sudden inputs at highway speed can cause a rollover, especially with a high center of gravity.
- Before backing, get out and check the area, use a spotter when available, and back slowly. If you lose sight of the spotter, stop.
- Use both mirrors and account for blind spots; mirrors do not show everything beside and behind the trailer.
- Approach turns from the proper lane, maintain a space cushion, and watch the rear wheels in the mirror through the turn.
- Stop gradually with controlled brake pressure; do not ride the clutch or brake pedal.
Worked example
A driver turning right too soon sees the tractor clear the corner but hears the trailer tires hit the curb. The rear wheels are tracking inside the tractor’s path. The correct response is to stop, check for damage, and complete the turn only after pulling forward enough. The reasoning: the trailer pivots at the fifth wheel, so its rear wheels follow a tighter arc.
Traps
Backing with mirrors only and no spotter; turning from the wrong lane; accelerating through a turn; and using one hand on the wheel in wind or traffic.