Communicating
Communicating tests your ability to tell other drivers what you intend and to make your large vehicle visible. The exam expects timely signals, correct use of lights and horn, and awareness that others may misjudge your speed.
Signals and lights
Signal early-at least 100 feet before a turn in normal traffic-and cancel after. Use four-way flashers when moving slowly, such as on a grade or in a work zone, if allowed. At night, flash high beams to warn oncoming traffic, but dim them for oncoming vehicles within 500 feet and when following within 200 feet. Use brake lights early by braking gently, giving traffic behind time to react.
Horn
Use the horn only to warn of danger, not to express irritation. A short tap may alert a driver drifting into your lane; a long blast can startle and cause a crash.
Worked example
You are driving a slow truck up a grade and traffic is closing behind. Reasoning: your speed difference is the hazard. Turn on four-way flashers, keep right where possible, and signal before any lane change so drivers can pass safely.
Traps
Signaling only as you turn, forgetting to cancel, and using the horn as a rebuke are common errors. Do not assume a signal gives you the right of way; it only communicates intent.