OK 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

To find defects that could cause a crash or breakdown before the vehicle moves. It covers engine compartment, exterior walk-around, and in-cab items, and a defect must be fixed before departure.

Air brake static leak test

With full pressure and the engine off, watch the gauge. A loss above 3 psi per minute on a single vehicle or 4 psi per minute on a combination means a leak needing repair.

Fifth wheel tug test

After coupling, set the trailer brakes and pull gently against them. Any movement of the trailer relative to the tractor means the locking jaws are not secure.

Railroad crossing stop distance

A passenger bus must stop at every non-exempt crossing, 15 to 50 feet before the nearest rail. Open a door or window, turn off noise, and look and listen both ways.

Stalled on the tracks

Get everyone off the bus immediately and move at least 100 feet away, toward the direction of an approaching train. Then call the railroad emergency number posted at the crossing.

Curb loading zone stop

Stop with the right rear wheels within 12 inches of the curb. Set the parking brake and place the transmission in Neutral or Park before opening the door.

Standee line

A marked line on the floor of a passenger vehicle. No standing passenger may be forward of it, and no one may stand in the stairwell or driver's compartment.

Blocked emergency exit

Any object, luggage, or passenger placed in front of an emergency exit. It defeats the primary evacuation route and must be removed before the vehicle moves.

Following distance formula

Allow one second per 10 feet of vehicle length below 40 mph, plus one second. A 40-foot bus therefore needs at least 5 seconds; add more above 40 mph.

Texting while driving rule

Commercial drivers may not text or use a handheld phone while driving. Hands-free calls are allowed only where state law permits, and texting is never permitted.

Overdriving headlights

Driving faster than the distance your headlights let you stop within. At night, reduce speed so you can stop inside the lit area ahead of the bus.

Hydroplaning response

When tires lose contact with wet pavement, ease off the accelerator and hold the wheel steady. Do not brake hard, because hard braking can start a skid or spin.

Hazard recognition timing

Scan 12 to 15 seconds ahead so a hazard is seen early. Early recognition lets you adjust speed smoothly instead of making a panic stop.

Evacuation distance from fire

Move passengers at least 100 feet from the vehicle, and farther if it is burning. Keep them upwind and away from traffic lanes and debris.

Post-crash scene protection

Turn on hazard flashers, set out warning triangles behind the vehicle, and call 911 with location and injury count. Do not move injured passengers unless fire or traffic threatens them.

Tire tread rejection rule

Reject a tire with less than 4/32 inch tread on a front axle or 2/32 inch on other axles, or with cuts, bulges, or exposed cord.

Brake pushrod travel check

With the system at full pressure, mark the pushrod and apply the brake. Travel beyond the manufacturer's limit means the brakes are out of adjustment.

Passenger head count

Count passengers by actual head count before leaving a stop and after any evacuation. Seat estimates are unreliable, and the count is reported to responders after a crash.

Lift and ramp use

Where equipped, use the lift or ramp to board a passenger who needs assistance. Never lift a passenger manually, and allow time for safe boarding.

Aisle clearance rule

Keep the aisle clear from front to rear at all times. A bag or outstretched foot in the aisle is a trip hazard and blocks the evacuation path.

Wheelchair tiedown requirement

Secure the mobility device with the tiedown system and restrain the occupant. An unsecured wheelchair becomes a projectile in a sudden stop or crash.

Speed before a curve

Reduce speed before entering the curve, work zone, or downgrade. Braking inside a curve can cause a skid and loss of control of the bus.

Covering the brake

Resting your foot over the brake pedal without pressing it, used at intersections and where hazards may develop. It shortens reaction time when a stop is needed.

Fog driving lights

Use low beams in fog, rain, and snow because high beams reflect off the moisture and reduce visibility. Slow down and never stop in a travel lane.

Flooded roadway rule

Treat a flooded road as impassable until the depth is verified. Moving water can float or sweep a bus off the roadway, so turn around and find another route.

Stale green light

A green light that has been green since you first saw it. Treat it as a warning to prepare to stop, not as permission to accelerate through.

Impaired driver cues

Lane drift, inconsistent speed, and delayed reactions suggest an impaired or distracted driver. Increase following distance and pass only when clearly safe.

Emergency exit selection

Use the exit farthest from the hazard. If the main door is blocked, use the rear door, roof hatch, or windows according to their marked operating instructions.

Manual shifting at crossings

Do not shift gears while crossing railroad tracks or while turning. Select the gear before the hazard and hold it through the crossing or turn.

Retarder on slippery roads

Turn off or reduce the engine brake or retarder in rain, snow, or ice. A retarder can lock the drive wheels and cause a jackknife or loss of control.

Overloading a passenger bus

Carrying more passengers than the rated capacity. Overloading changes stopping distance and handling and violates the vehicle's capacity rating and standee limits.

Reporting a crash

Report the crash to your employer and complete the required written report. Federal rules may require post-crash alcohol and drug testing after a qualifying crash.