ND 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

A pre-trip inspection confirms the vehicle is safe and legally operable before carrying passengers, catching defects such as low tires, bad brakes, and burned-out lights before they cause a breakdown or crash.

Minimum front tire tread

Front steering axle tires must have at least 4/32 inch of tread depth; all other tires must have at least 2/32 inch. Worn tires lose traction and increase blowout risk.

Air brake leak test

With the engine off and brakes released, air pressure should not drop more than 3 psi in one minute; with the brakes applied, it should not drop more than 4 psi in one minute.

Emergency exit check

Each emergency exit must open, close, and latch properly, and the warning buzzer must sound when the exit is opened with the ignition on. A stuck exit can trap passengers.

Parking brake test

Apply the parking brake and gently pull against it in a low gear to confirm it holds the vehicle. A parking brake that does not hold can let the bus roll on a grade.

Walk-around inspection items

Check tires, wheels, rims, lug nuts, lights, reflectors, mirrors, windshield, wipers, horn, coupling devices, and emergency equipment during the walk-around before every trip.

Aisle clearance rule

Baggage and cargo must never block the aisle or any emergency exit. A blocked aisle slows evacuation during a fire or crash and is a safety violation.

Axle weight limits

Do not exceed the gross vehicle weight rating or any axle weight rating. Overloading an axle reduces braking and steering control and can damage tires and suspension.

Tiedown working load limit

The tiedown system's working load limit must be at least half the weight of the article secured. Undersized tiedowns can fail and let cargo shift or fall.

Load center of gravity

Load heavy items low and near the center of the vehicle. A high center of gravity increases rollover risk, especially during turns and evasive maneuvers.

Compartment door check

Close and latch all baggage compartment doors before moving. An open compartment door can strike a pedestrian, another vehicle, or a roadside object.

Passenger head count

Count passengers when loading and unloading and keep a running total. An accurate count lets you confirm everyone is off the vehicle during an evacuation.

Following distance rule

Allow at least one second per 10 feet of vehicle length below 40 mph, plus one extra second above 40 mph. A 40-foot bus therefore needs at least four seconds below 40 mph.

Rear wheel pivot point

Rear wheels track inside the front wheels during a turn, so swing wide enough to keep the rear tires from striking the curb or a parked vehicle.

Railroad crossing stop

Stop at least 15 feet from the nearest rail, look and listen, and never shift gears while crossing the tracks. Shifting can stall the vehicle on the tracks.

Downgrade gear selection

Select a lower gear before starting down a steep grade and use the engine brake or retarder. Riding the service brakes can overheat them and cause brake fade.

Curve speed control

Reduce speed before entering a curve and accelerate gently through it. Braking in a curve can cause a skid or rollover in a top-heavy passenger vehicle.

Backing procedure

Use a spotter whenever possible when backing. If no spotter is available, get out and check behind the vehicle before backing to avoid striking a person or object.

Blind spot check

Large passenger vehicles have blind spots directly behind and along both sides. Check mirrors and turn your head before changing lanes to confirm the space is clear.

Door closing rule

Close the door only after all passengers are seated or holding a handrail, and check the aisle and stepwell before moving. This prevents falls and injuries.

Wheelchair securement

Secure a wheelchair passenger with a four-point tiedown and a lap and shoulder belt. Do not rely on the wheelchair brakes alone to hold the chair in place.

Prohibited passenger areas

Never allow passengers to ride in the baggage compartment or any area not designed for passengers. These areas lack restraints, ventilation, and safe exits.

Disruptive passenger handling

Stop the vehicle in a safe place and follow company policy when a passenger becomes disruptive. Do not physically restrain or argue with the passenger while driving.

Boarding announcement

Announce the destination and confirm fares or passes before loading passengers. Clear communication prevents wrong-boardings and fare disputes at the door.

Stop parking brake use

Set the parking brake before opening the door at a stop. This keeps the vehicle from rolling while passengers board or exit, especially on a grade.

Post-crash first steps

After a crash, stop immediately, protect the scene, check for injuries, and call 911. Report the location, number of injuries, and any hazards such as fire or spilled fuel.

Injured person movement

Do not move an injured person unless there is immediate danger such as fire or traffic. Moving someone with a spinal injury can cause permanent paralysis.

Reflective triangle placement

Set out reflective triangles within 10 minutes of stopping: about 10 feet behind the vehicle, 100 feet behind at highway speeds, and 100 feet ahead on a two-way road.

Engine fire response

Do not open the hood fully if the engine is on fire; discharge the extinguisher through the hood opening or grille. Opening the hood feeds oxygen to the fire.

Passenger evacuation

Evacuate passengers through the nearest safe exit and keep them together away from traffic. Use your head count to confirm that everyone is out.

Stalled on railroad tracks

If the vehicle stalls on railroad tracks, get everyone out and move at least 100 feet from the tracks, then call the railroad emergency number posted at the crossing.

Post-crash reporting

Report the crash to your employer and complete required written reports. Exchange information with other drivers and give aid within the limits of your training.