Montana CDL General Knowledge flashcards

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

Pre-trip inspection

A systematic check of the vehicle's critical components-tires, brakes, lights, fluids, and cargo securement-before driving to ensure safety and compliance.

Governor cut-out pressure

The air pressure at which the compressor stops building pressure, typically 120-125 psi, preventing over-pressurization of the air brake system.

Progressive shifting

Upshifting at lower RPMs as you accelerate through gears to save fuel and reduce engine wear, often used in heavy trucks.

Off-tracking

The tendency of a vehicle's rear wheels to follow a tighter path than the front wheels during a turn, requiring wider turns to avoid hitting curbs or objects.

4-second rule

A following-distance guideline: stay at least 4 seconds behind the vehicle ahead under 40 mph, adding 1 second for each 10 mph above 40.

Total stopping distance

The sum of perception distance, reaction distance, brake lag distance, and braking distance; increases with speed and weight.

Rear-wheel skid

A skid where the rear tires lose traction; steer in the direction of the skid to regain control, and avoid hard braking.

Tire blowout response

Hold the steering wheel firmly, stay off the brakes, and let the vehicle slow gradually before pulling off the road safely.

Aggregate working load limit

The combined strength of all tiedowns used to secure cargo; must be at least 50% of the cargo weight.

Tiedown count rule

Cargo up to 5 feet needs 1 tiedown; 5-10 feet needs 2; over 10 feet needs 3, plus one every 10 feet thereafter.

Spring brakes

Parking brakes that apply automatically when air pressure drops below a certain level (typically 20-45 psi), using spring force to stop the vehicle.

Slack adjuster push rod travel

The distance the brake chamber push rod moves; should not exceed 1 inch for standard chambers; excessive travel indicates need for adjustment.

11-hour driving limit

Property-carrying drivers may drive up to 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty; must take a 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving.

34-hour restart

A provision allowing drivers to reset their 60/70-hour clock by taking 34 consecutive hours off duty.

CDL alcohol limit

For commercial drivers, a blood alcohol concentration of 0.04% or higher is illegal, lower than the 0.08% limit for non-commercial drivers.

Implied consent

By driving a commercial motor vehicle, a driver consents to alcohol and drug testing; refusal leads to license suspension.

School bus stop law

Drivers must stop for a school bus with flashing red lights and extended stop arm, remaining stopped until the lights stop flashing.

Railroad crossing procedure

Slow down, look and listen, and be prepared to stop; never stop on tracks; if stalled, evacuate and call emergency services.

Montana maximum height

The maximum legal height for vehicles in Montana is 14 feet 0 inches, though some routes may have lower limits.

Bridge formula

A formula that limits the weight of a vehicle based on the number of axles and the distance between them to prevent bridge damage.

Montana speed limits

Montana's maximum speed limits: 70 mph on interstates, 65 mph on two-lane highways, and 55 mph on some secondary roads, unless posted otherwise.

Move over law

A law requiring drivers to move over or slow down for stopped emergency vehicles with flashing lights to protect roadside workers.

Blind spot check

Checking areas not visible in mirrors by turning your head before changing lanes or backing; crucial for avoiding collisions.

Convex mirror characteristic

A mirror that provides a wider field of view but makes objects appear smaller and farther away than they actually are.

Emergency braking technique

Apply brakes firmly and progressively without pumping; maintain steering control; use controlled braking to stop safely.

Cargo securement check

Inspect cargo tiedowns before driving, after first 50 miles, and every 150 miles or 3 hours thereafter to ensure load remains secure.

Air brake leak test

With engine off and brakes applied, pressure drop should not exceed 3 psi per minute for single vehicles or 4 psi for combinations.

Fatigue countermeasures

Get adequate rest, take breaks, avoid driving when drowsy, and use caffeine strategically; do not rely on stimulants to stay awake.

Reasonable suspicion testing

Alcohol or drug testing required when a supervisor has reasonable suspicion that a driver is under the influence, based on specific observations.

Work zone safety

Reduce speed, obey flaggers, watch for workers and equipment, and expect fines to double for violations in work zones.

Oversize permit

A permit required for vehicles exceeding legal width, height, or length limits; must be carried in the vehicle and restrictions followed.

Montana chain law

A requirement to use tire chains on certain mountain passes during winter conditions when signs indicate chains are required.