CDL General Knowledge TestTransporting Cargo SafelyMedium
A driver is transporting a load of 40-foot steel beams on a flatbed trailer. The beams extend 5 feet beyond the rear of the trailer. When is it mandatory to attach a red flag to the end of the projecting load?
- AOnly when the projection is 4 feet or more during daylight.
- BOnly when driving at night.
- CWhen the projection is 4 feet or more, during both day and night.
- DWhenever the load extends beyond the trailer, regardless of length.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Only when the projection is 4 feet or more during daylight.
Federal regulations require that any load extending 4 feet or more beyond the rear of a vehicle must have a red flag at least 12 inches square attached to its extreme end during daylight hours. At night, or when visibility is poor, two red lights must be used instead.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. At night, red lights are required, not flags.
- C. While flags are for daylight, lights are needed at night; flags are not required at night.
- D. There is a specific length threshold (4 feet) before a flag is mandatory during the day.
Overhang Markings (Daylight)
Specific requirements for marking loads that extend beyond the rear of a vehicle during daylight hours.
- Applies to projections of 4 feet or more.
- Requires a red flag, at least 12 inches square.
- Alerts other drivers to the extended load.
Memory trick: Four feet out, a red flag shouts; at night, red lights throughout.