CDL Combination Vehicles TestDriving Combination Vehicles SafelyMedium
A commercial driver is operating a combination vehicle and observes a car merging onto the highway from an on-ramp, struggling to match speed. What is the most appropriate defensive driving action for the combination vehicle driver to take?
- AAdjust speed, if safe, and/or change lanes to give the merging vehicle space.
- BSpeed up to get past the merging vehicle quickly.
- CMaintain current speed and lane, assuming the merging driver will adjust.
- DFlash headlights to warn the merging driver to speed up.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Adjust speed, if safe, and/or change lanes to give the merging vehicle space.
Defensive driving requires anticipating potential hazards and taking proactive measures. Adjusting your speed or changing lanes (if safe and clear) provides space for the merging vehicle, reducing the risk of a collision.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Speeding up can reduce the gap needed by the merging vehicle, making the situation more dangerous.
- C. Assuming the other driver will adjust is risky; combination vehicle drivers have a responsibility to drive defensively.
- D. Flashing headlights might confuse or startle the merging driver, worsening the situation rather than helping.
Defensive Driving: Merging Traffic
When encountering merging traffic, a defensive driver should create space by adjusting speed or changing lanes to facilitate safe entry.
- Anticipate other drivers' actions.
- Create space when possible.
- Avoid aggressive driving maneuvers.
Memory trick: Merge ahead, give them room, avoid the boom.