CDL General Knowledge TestCombination Vehicles (if applicable)Easy
When driving a combination vehicle, what is the primary danger associated with 'trailer swing' during a turn?
- AIncreased fuel consumption due to aerodynamic drag.
- BThe trailer moving into another lane or striking an object.
- CPremature wear on the trailer tires.
- DOverheating of the truck's transmission fluid.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. The trailer moving into another lane or striking an object.
Trailer swing, also known as off-tracking, occurs when the rear wheels of a trailer follow a different path than the tractor's wheels during a turn. This can cause the trailer to hit other vehicles or objects.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. While drag is a factor in fuel consumption, it is not the primary danger of trailer swing during a turn.
- C. Tire wear is a general maintenance concern, not the immediate and primary danger of trailer swing.
- D. Transmission overheating is unrelated to the physical phenomenon of trailer swing during a turn.
Trailer Swing (Off-tracking)
The phenomenon where the rear wheels of a combination vehicle's trailer follow a shorter path than the tractor's wheels during a turn.
- Occurs in all combination vehicles.
- Increases with longer trailers and sharper turns.
- Requires drivers to allow extra space during turns.
Memory trick: Always remember the 'tail' always cuts the corner.