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Montana CDL General Knowledge study materials
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Montana CDL General Knowledge practice questions

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Question 1Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

During a pre-trip inspection of a combination vehicle, how much air pressure loss is allowed in a single minute when the engine is off, the brakes are released, and the system is fully charged?

  1. No more than 3 psi
  2. No more than 5 psi
  3. No more than 2 psi Correct answer.
  4. No more than 10 psi

Explanation

With a fully charged system, the engine off, and the brakes released, a combination vehicle should lose no more than 2 psi in one minute. A leak rate above that indicates an air system defect that must be fixed before driving.

Question 2Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

While checking the slack adjusters during a pre-trip inspection, you find that a push rod travels about 2 inches when the brake is applied. What does this indicate?

  1. The brake lining is brand new and still seating
  2. The slack adjuster is working within the normal range Correct answer.
  3. The brake chamber has failed and must be replaced
  4. The slack adjuster is out of adjustment and the brake is unsafe

Explanation

A push rod stroke of about 2 inches on a standard clamp-type chamber is within the normal adjustment range. Excessively long stroke means the slack adjuster needs adjustment and the brake may not apply fully.

Question 3Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

When should you drain the air tanks on a commercial vehicle?

  1. Only when the low-pressure warning buzzer sounds
  2. Once every 30 days
  3. Only when the vehicle fails a brake test
  4. At the end of each day of driving Correct answer.

Explanation

Air tanks collect moisture and oil that must be drained at the end of each day of driving to prevent corrosion and freeze-ups. Many tanks have automatic drain valves, but manual draining is still required where fitted.

Question 4Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

You are driving a loaded tractor-trailer on a downgrade and the service brakes begin to fade. What is the safest immediate action?

  1. Use the engine brake and downshift to a lower gear Correct answer.
  2. Shift to a higher gear and accelerate to cool the brakes
  3. Apply the trailer hand valve to slow the vehicle
  4. Pump the brake pedal rapidly to rebuild pressure

Explanation

Brake fade on a downgrade means the brakes are overheating, so you should reduce reliance on them by downshifting and using engine braking. Selecting a lower gear slows the vehicle through compression and lets the brakes cool.

Question 5Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

What is the correct way to check that the trailer brakes are working using the hand valve during a pre-trip inspection?

  1. Push in the red trailer air supply knob and pull the yellow parking brake knob
  2. Release the tractor parking brake and roll forward at idle
  3. Charge the system, then pull the trailer hand valve and try to move the vehicle Correct answer.
  4. Open the trailer air supply valve and listen for leaks

Explanation

With the system charged, pulling the trailer hand valve applies only the trailer brakes; if you then try to pull forward gently and the rig does not move, the trailer brakes are working. This test isolates the trailer brake system from the tractor brakes.

Question 6Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

Before backing a tractor-trailer, what should you do if you cannot see behind the trailer?

  1. Back only to the left so the trailer swings into view
  2. Sound the horn continuously while backing
  3. Get out and walk around, then use a helper to guide you Correct answer.
  4. Back slowly and rely on the mirrors only

Explanation

If you cannot see behind the trailer, you should get out and check the area, then use a helper to guide you while backing. Mirrors leave large blind spots directly behind a trailer.

Question 7Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

When making a right turn in a large commercial vehicle, why should you swing wide to the left before turning?

  1. To signal other drivers to pass on the right
  2. To reduce wear on the front tires
  3. To keep the rear wheels from running over the curb or a pedestrian Correct answer.
  4. To increase speed through the turn

Explanation

Large vehicles track inside the front wheels during a turn, so the rear wheels can climb the curb or strike a pedestrian if you turn too tightly. Swinging wide keeps the rear wheels clear of the curb and gives more room.

Question 8Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

How far ahead should you look while driving a commercial vehicle at highway speed?

  1. About 12 to 15 seconds Correct answer.
  2. About 5 seconds
  3. About 30 seconds
  4. About 2 seconds

Explanation

Aim your view about 12 to 15 seconds ahead of the vehicle so you can spot hazards and adjust early. At highway speed that distance is roughly a quarter mile or more.

Question 9Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

You are driving a loaded tanker and must stop quickly on a dry road. How does the liquid load affect your stopping distance?

  1. It lengthens stopping distance because the load shifts and the vehicle is heavier Correct answer.
  2. It shortens stopping distance by adding weight for traction
  3. It only affects stopping distance when the tank is empty
  4. It has no effect on stopping distance

Explanation

A full or partially filled tanker carries extra weight and the liquid can surge, so stopping distance increases compared with an empty vehicle. The shifting load also makes the vehicle harder to control under hard braking.

Question 10Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

What is the purpose of the retarder on a heavy commercial vehicle?

  1. To lock the wheels during emergency stops
  2. To help slow the vehicle on long downgrades without using the service brakes Correct answer.
  3. To increase engine power on upgrades
  4. To hold the vehicle when parked on a hill

Explanation

A retarder uses engine compression or driveline resistance to slow the vehicle on long downgrades, reducing heat buildup in the service brakes. It supplements, but does not replace, the service brakes.

Question 11Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

On a slippery road, what is the recommended way to apply the brakes on a vehicle without ABS?

  1. Use only the trailer hand valve
  2. Shift to neutral and coast to a stop
  3. Pump the brakes gently to avoid locking the wheels Correct answer.
  4. Apply the brakes hard and hold them

Explanation

Without ABS, hard braking can lock the wheels and cause a skid, so you should pump the brakes gently to slow without locking. Steering control is preserved when the wheels keep rolling.

Question 12Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

What does the ABS warning light staying on after you start the engine tell you?

  1. The air pressure is too low
  2. The ABS may not work and the vehicle should be checked Correct answer.
  3. The parking brake is still engaged
  4. The ABS is functioning normally

Explanation

An ABS light that stays on after the bulb check indicates a fault in the anti-lock system, so ABS may not engage in a skid. The vehicle still has normal brakes, but it should be inspected before relying on ABS.

Question 13Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

When starting a heavy vehicle with an automatic transmission on a steep upgrade, what should you do to prevent rolling backward?

  1. Apply the trailer hand valve and release the tractor brake
  2. Hold the vehicle with the service brake, then release it as you apply power Correct answer.
  3. Rely on the transmission to hold the vehicle
  4. Release the parking brake before shifting into gear

Explanation

Keep the service brake applied to hold the vehicle on the grade, then release it smoothly as you apply power so the vehicle moves forward without rolling back. This prevents rolling into a vehicle behind you.

Question 14Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

What is the correct procedure for a double-clutch downshift in a manual transmission commercial vehicle?

  1. Press the clutch, shift to neutral, and coast in neutral before engaging the gear
  2. Press the clutch once and shift directly to the lower gear
  3. Press the clutch, shift to neutral, release the clutch, press it again, and shift to the lower gear Correct answer.
  4. Press the clutch and brake simultaneously, then shift

Explanation

Double-clutching matches engine and transmission speeds by releasing the clutch in neutral, then pressing it again to engage the lower gear. This reduces wear on the transmission and helps smooth downshifts.

Question 15Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

During a pre-trip inspection, you check the steering system. Which finding requires the vehicle to be placed out of service?

  1. Tires with even tread wear
  2. Power steering fluid at the full mark
  3. A missing cotter key on a steering linkage nut Correct answer.
  4. Slight free play within the manufacturer's limit

Explanation

A missing cotter key or loose steering linkage fastener can allow the steering to fail, so the vehicle must be repaired before driving. Steering components must be secure and properly pinned.

Question 16Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

When inspecting the tires on a commercial vehicle, what is the minimum tread depth required for front steer tires?

  1. 6/32 inch
  2. 2/32 inch
  3. 8/32 inch
  4. 4/32 inch Correct answer.

Explanation

Front steer tires must have at least 4/32 inch of tread depth, while other tires on the vehicle require at least 2/32 inch. Tread grooves must also show across the width of the tire.

Question 17Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

You are inspecting a tractor-trailer and notice a large puddle of oil under the engine. What should you do?

  1. Add oil and continue the trip
  2. Wipe it up and drive, checking the oil level later
  3. Investigate the source and repair it before driving Correct answer.
  4. Ignore it if the oil pressure gauge reads normal

Explanation

A large oil puddle indicates a leak that could lead to engine failure or a fire hazard, so you should find the source and repair it before driving. Topping off oil does not fix the underlying leak.

Question 18Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

What is the proper way to check the coolant level on a commercial vehicle with a pressurized cooling system?

  1. Check the coolant level in the overflow tank when the engine is cool Correct answer.
  2. Listen for boiling in the radiator
  3. Open the drain valve and watch for flow
  4. Remove the radiator cap while the engine is hot

Explanation

Coolant should be checked at the overflow or surge tank with the engine cool to avoid burns from pressurized hot coolant. Never remove the radiator cap while the engine is hot.

Question 19Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

When coupling a tractor to a trailer, what should you do immediately after backing under the trailer and before raising the landing gear?

  1. Release the trailer spring brakes
  2. Connect the air lines and electrical cord, then test the fifth wheel by tugging Correct answer.
  3. Lower the landing gear fully to the ground
  4. Pull forward to test the connection

Explanation

After the fifth wheel locks, connect the air lines and electrical cord, then tug the tractor forward with the trailer brakes applied to confirm the coupling is secure. Only after a successful tug test should you raise the landing gear.

Question 20Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

How should you adjust the seat and mirrors before starting a trip in a commercial vehicle?

  1. Leave the seat as the previous driver set it
  2. Set mirrors to show mostly the cab interior
  3. Adjust mirrors first, then the seat while driving
  4. Adjust the seat so you can reach the pedals, then set mirrors to show the sides and rear Correct answer.

Explanation

Set the seat so you can fully depress the pedals and reach the controls, then adjust mirrors to show the sides and rear of the vehicle. Proper adjustment reduces blind spots and fatigue.

Question 21Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

You are driving a loaded combination vehicle and the trailer begins to swing out to the side while you brake. What should you do?

  1. Accelerate to pull the trailer straight
  2. Release the brakes to let the wheels roll and steer to correct Correct answer.
  3. Apply the trailer hand valve to straighten the rig
  4. Hold the brakes firmly and steer against the swing

Explanation

Trailer swing often results from locked wheels, so releasing the brakes lets the wheels roll and regain traction while you steer to correct. Holding the brakes or using the hand valve can worsen the jackknife.

Question 22Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

What should you do if the low air pressure warning comes on while driving?

  1. Stop safely as soon as possible and check the system Correct answer.
  2. Switch off the engine and coast
  3. Continue to the next stop and report it
  4. Increase engine speed to build pressure

Explanation

The low air pressure warning means the brakes may not operate fully, so you should stop safely as soon as possible and inspect the system. The spring brakes will apply automatically if pressure drops too low.

Question 23Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

Before driving a commercial vehicle, what check should you make of the emergency equipment?

  1. Confirm the fire extinguisher is charged and the warning triangles are present Correct answer.
  2. Ensure the radio and horn work
  3. Check only that a spare tire is mounted
  4. Verify the fuel level is full

Explanation

Emergency equipment must be on board and serviceable, including a charged fire extinguisher and the required warning triangles. These items are needed if the vehicle breaks down or a fire starts.

Question 24Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

When inspecting the brake drums and linings during a pre-trip inspection, which condition is a defect that requires repair?

  1. Cracks in the brake drum Correct answer.
  2. Light surface rust on the drum exterior
  3. Normal lining thickness
  4. Even wear across the lining

Explanation

Cracks in a brake drum can cause the drum to fail under braking heat and load, so the vehicle must be repaired before driving. Cracks are a serious safety defect.

Question 25Shifting, Backing, and Turning

When backing a tractor-trailer, which hand position on the steering wheel gives you the best control while you turn in your seat to watch the rear of the trailer?

  1. Your left hand at the top of the wheel
  2. Your left hand at the bottom of the wheel
  3. Your right hand at the bottom of the wheel Correct answer.
  4. Both hands at the top of the wheel

Explanation

Placing the right hand at the bottom of the wheel lets you turn the wheel while your body is twisted to look out the rear window. Turning the wheel toward the driver's side moves the trailer that direction, which is why backing requires steering opposite to what you would do in a car.

Question 26Shifting, Backing, and Turning

Before backing a large combination vehicle in a crowded lot, what should you do first?

  1. Sound the horn continuously while reversing
  2. Rely on the mirrors because the rear camera covers blind spots
  3. Turn on the four-way flashers and back quickly
  4. Get out and walk around the vehicle to check the path Correct answer.

Explanation

Walking around the vehicle before backing reveals obstacles, people, and clearance problems that mirrors and cameras can miss. This check is especially important for a long combination vehicle where the rear of the trailer swings wide.

Question 27Shifting, Backing, and Turning

When making a right turn in a tractor-trailer, why should you swing wide to the left before the turn?

  1. To keep the trailer tires from hitting the curb or a pole Correct answer.
  2. To increase speed through the intersection
  3. To shorten the distance the trailer must travel
  4. To signal other drivers that you are turning

Explanation

The rear wheels of a long vehicle track inside the path of the front wheels, a condition called off-tracking. Swinging wide gives the trailer room so its rear tires clear the curb, signs, and poles on the inside of the turn.

Question 28Shifting, Backing, and Turning

What is the correct way to start moving a heavy manual-transmission truck from a stop?

  1. Start in a high gear to reduce wheelspin
  2. Release the clutch fully, then press the accelerator
  3. Use the clutch pedal to hold the truck on a hill
  4. Engage the clutch smoothly while applying steady throttle Correct answer.

Explanation

A smooth start requires coordinating clutch engagement with steady throttle so the engine does not lug or the truck does not jerk. Riding or slipping the clutch excessively, or holding the truck on a hill with it, causes heat and rapid wear.

Question 29Shifting, Backing, and Turning

When should you downshift before a long downgrade?

  1. After you have gained speed on the grade
  2. Only if the service brakes begin to fade
  3. Before you begin the descent, while still at a safe speed Correct answer.
  4. At the bottom of the grade

Explanation

You must select a low enough gear before starting down a grade so engine braking holds your speed in check. Waiting until you are already fast makes it hard to shift and may leave the brakes doing all the work.

Question 30Shifting, Backing, and Turning

Which statement about turning a long combination vehicle at an intersection is correct?

  1. The trailer cuts the corner, so the rear wheels track inside the front wheels Correct answer.
  2. The rear of the trailer swings toward the outside of the turn
  3. The trailer tracks outside the front wheels on every turn
  4. The trailer follows exactly in the path of the tractor

Explanation

Off-tracking means the rear wheels of a long vehicle follow a path inside the front wheels during a turn. This is why you must allow extra room on the inside of the corner and check your mirrors through the turn.

Question 31Shifting, Backing, and Turning

You are backing a trailer and want the rear of the trailer to move toward the driver's side. Which way should you turn the steering wheel?

  1. Toward the passenger side
  2. Straight ahead, then brake
  3. Toward the driver's side Correct answer.
  4. First one way, then the other

Explanation

When backing, turning the wheel toward the driver's side moves the rear of the trailer toward that side. This is the opposite of forward steering, so you must think in terms of where you want the trailer to go.

Question 32Shifting, Backing, and Turning

What is the main reason to use a spotter when backing a large truck into a tight loading dock?

  1. The spotter can legally direct traffic around the truck
  2. The spotter replaces the need to check mirrors
  3. The spotter can operate the brakes from outside
  4. The spotter can guide you and warn of hazards you cannot see Correct answer.

Explanation

A spotter positioned where you can see them in the mirror can guide your path and alert you to people or objects in blind areas. You must still use your mirrors and stop if you lose sight of the spotter.

Question 33Shifting, Backing, and Turning

While driving a manual-transmission truck, what does it mean if you must force the shift and the gears grind?

  1. You are in the correct gear for the speed
  2. Engine and transmission speeds are not matched Correct answer.
  3. The clutch is fully engaged
  4. The transmission is operating normally under load

Explanation

Grinding or forced shifts usually mean engine rpm and road speed do not match the gear you are selecting. Adjusting speed or using a brief throttle change helps the gears mesh without damage.

Question 34Shifting, Backing, and Turning

You are approaching a sharp left turn with a loaded tractor-trailer. What is the safest approach?

  1. Slow down before the turn and accelerate gently through it Correct answer.
  2. Brake hard while turning to keep the trailer in line
  3. Accelerate before the turn to pull the trailer through
  4. Maintain speed and turn sharply to clear the corner

Explanation

Slowing before the turn keeps the vehicle stable and lets you steer smoothly, then gentle acceleration through the turn helps pull the combination. Braking hard while turning can cause a jackknife or skid.

Question 35Shifting, Backing, and Turning

When backing a trailer, what should you do if you lose sight of your spotter?

  1. Honk and keep backing
  2. Continue slowly and listen for signals
  3. Speed up to finish the maneuver quickly
  4. Stop immediately until you can see the spotter again Correct answer.

Explanation

If you cannot see the spotter, you cannot know what is behind the trailer, so you must stop. Resuming only when the spotter is visible again prevents accidents with people or objects in the blind area.

Question 36Shifting, Backing, and Turning

Why is it important to check both mirrors repeatedly while making a wide right turn in a large truck?

  1. To confirm your turn signal is still flashing
  2. To check whether the trailer lights are working
  3. To watch for a vehicle that may have pulled into the open space on your right Correct answer.
  4. To estimate your fuel economy through the turn

Explanation

The open space you create by swinging left can tempt a car to pass on your right, exactly where the trailer will move. Repeated mirror checks let you spot that vehicle before it is trapped or struck.

Question 37Shifting, Backing, and Turning

What is the correct procedure for shifting a manual transmission when climbing a steep grade with a heavy load?

  1. Upshift early to keep engine rpm low
  2. Skip gears to save time
  3. Hold the clutch in while coasting uphill
  4. Shift at higher rpm so you do not lose momentum between gears Correct answer.

Explanation

On a climb with a heavy load, shifting at higher rpm keeps the engine in its power band so you do not bog down between gears. Losing momentum on a grade can force you to stop or stall.

Question 38Shifting, Backing, and Turning

A driver must back a tractor-trailer around a corner into an alley. Which technique best keeps the trailer under control?

  1. Keep the wheel straight the entire time
  2. Back straight until the trailer is past the corner, then steer Correct answer.
  3. Turn the wheel sharply at the start of the maneuver
  4. Back quickly so the trailer does not drift

Explanation

Backing straight until the trailer clears the corner, then steering, keeps the trailer from swinging into obstacles. Sharp early steering causes the trailer to cut the corner and hit curbs or buildings.

Question 39Shifting, Backing, and Turning

What is a safe way to control speed on a long, steep downgrade?

  1. Use a low gear and apply the brakes firmly and continuously
  2. Use the trailer brake only
  3. Select a low gear and use the brakes in short, controlled applications Correct answer.
  4. Shift to neutral and rely on the brakes

Explanation

A low gear lets engine braking hold much of the load, and short brake applications keep the drums from overheating. Continuous heavy braking can cause fade and loss of stopping power.

Question 40Shifting, Backing, and Turning

When turning right at an intersection in a large truck, how should you position the vehicle before the turn?

  1. Move toward the left side of your lane to give the trailer room Correct answer.
  2. Hug the right curb to keep cars from passing
  3. Straddle the center line the entire approach
  4. Center the truck in the lane and turn sharply

Explanation

Moving left within your lane before a right turn gives the trailer room to clear the inside curb and any poles. Hugging the curb causes the trailer to ride over it, while straddling the center line endangers oncoming traffic.

Question 41Shifting, Backing, and Turning

You are backing a trailer that begins to turn too sharply toward the driver's side. What corrective action should you take?

  1. Stop and pull forward to reposition Correct answer.
  2. Accelerate to bring the trailer back in line
  3. Steer back the other way to straighten the trailer
  4. Turn the wheel further toward the driver's side

Explanation

When the trailer is turning too sharply, pulling forward resets the alignment and gives you room to try again. Continuing to back while the trailer is over-angled risks a jackknife or striking an obstacle.

Question 42Shifting, Backing, and Turning

A driver in a manual-transmission truck is descending a grade and the engine begins to overspeed in the selected gear. What is the best response?

  1. Release the clutch to let the engine slow the truck
  2. Upshift to reduce engine rpm
  3. Shift to neutral and coast
  4. Apply the brakes to slow down, then downshift if needed Correct answer.

Explanation

If engine rpm climbs too high in gear, use the brakes to bring speed down before selecting a lower gear. Upshifting or coasting removes engine braking and lets speed run away on the grade.

Question 43Shifting, Backing, and Turning

Why should a driver avoid making a sharp turn while braking hard in a combination vehicle?

  1. The turn signal will not cancel
  2. The combination can skid or jackknife because traction is split between turning and braking Correct answer.
  3. The brakes will lock only the trailer wheels
  4. The engine will stall automatically

Explanation

Hard braking uses up tire traction that is also needed for steering, so combining the two can cause a skid or jackknife. Slowing before the turn and steering smoothly keeps the combination stable.

Question 44Shifting, Backing, and Turning

A driver of a loaded tractor-trailer is preparing to back into a dock on the right side of the vehicle. Which setup gives the best starting position for the maneuver?

  1. Stop with the tractor cab directly in front of the dock and the trailer straight behind it, then back straight in
  2. Stop well short of the dock and back in a long sweeping arc from the left lane
  3. Stop parallel to the dock with the trailer centered on it, then back straight in
  4. Pull past the dock so the trailer is angled about 45 degrees to the left of the dock, then back while steering to bring the trailer in Correct answer.

Explanation

The standard setup for a right-side dock is to position the vehicle so the trailer is angled toward the dock, roughly 45 degrees, and then back while turning the wheel to swing the trailer into the space. This gives the driver room to make small corrections with the mirrors instead of forcing a sharp jackknife angle. Starting too close or too parallel leaves no room to pivot the trailer.

Question 45Seeing and Communicating

Under normal driving conditions on a Montana two-lane highway, what is the minimum following distance recommended for a CMV traveling under 40 mph?

  1. One second for every 10 feet of vehicle length Correct answer.
  2. One car length for every 10 mph
  3. Two seconds regardless of vehicle length
  4. Four seconds at all speeds

Explanation

The basic rule for speeds under 40 mph is one second for each 10 feet of vehicle length. A 60-foot combination vehicle therefore needs at least six seconds of gap. At higher speeds you add one extra second.

Question 46Seeing and Communicating

You are driving a 70-foot combination vehicle at 55 mph on I-90. What minimum following distance should you maintain?

  1. Seven seconds
  2. Nine seconds
  3. Eight seconds Correct answer.
  4. Ten seconds

Explanation

For speeds above 40 mph the rule is one second per 10 feet of vehicle length plus one additional second. A 70-foot vehicle needs seven seconds plus one, for a minimum of eight seconds.

Question 47Seeing and Communicating

While driving at highway speed, you must check your mirrors frequently. How often should a CMV driver scan the mirrors?

  1. Only before changing lanes
  2. Every 30 to 60 seconds
  3. Every 8 to 10 seconds Correct answer.
  4. Once every two minutes

Explanation

Frequent mirror checks keep you aware of traffic around the vehicle and catch problems early. Scanning every 8 to 10 seconds is the standard guidance. Less frequent checking leaves large blind spots unmonitored.

Question 48Seeing and Communicating

A driver behind you is tailgating your CMV on a two-lane road. What is the safest response?

  1. Slow gradually and increase your own following distance ahead Correct answer.
  2. Brake sharply to warn the driver
  3. Turn on your four-way flashers and stop in the lane
  4. Speed up to increase the gap behind you

Explanation

When someone tailgates, you need more room in front so you can slow gradually rather than brake suddenly. Increasing your forward following distance lets the tailgater pass or react. Avoid actions that could cause a rear-end collision.

Question 49Seeing and Communicating

How far ahead should you look while driving a CMV in normal city traffic?

  1. About 12 to 15 seconds Correct answer.
  2. About half a mile
  3. About one block
  4. Only as far as the vehicle directly ahead

Explanation

Aim to look about 12 to 15 seconds ahead so you can identify hazards and plan lane position and speed. In cities that distance is roughly one to one and a half blocks. Looking only at the vehicle ahead leaves no time to react.

Question 50Seeing and Communicating

At night, how should you adjust your speed when driving a CMV?

  1. Drive faster to spend less time on dark roads
  2. Drive slower so you can stop within the distance your headlights show Correct answer.
  3. Keep the posted limit so you stay predictable
  4. Match the speed of the vehicle ahead of you

Explanation

At night you should drive at a speed that lets you stop within the distance illuminated by your headlights. This is because you cannot see hazards beyond the light beam. Posted limits assume daylight visibility.