CDL General Knowledge TestDriving SafelyHard
A commercial driver is attempting to recover from a skid where the drive wheels have lost traction. What is the most critical immediate action the driver should take?
- AApply firm, continuous pressure to the foot brake.
- BRelease the accelerator and counter-steer gently.
- CSteer sharply in the opposite direction of the skid.
- DEngage the parking brake to slow the vehicle quickly.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Release the accelerator and counter-steer gently.
When drive wheels skid, releasing the accelerator reduces power to the wheels, allowing them to regain traction. Gently counter-steering (steering in the direction the rear of the vehicle is skidding) helps to straighten the vehicle without overcorrecting.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Applying firm brake pressure can lock wheels, worsening the skid or causing a jackknife.
- C. Steering sharply can lead to overcorrection and a secondary skid in the opposite direction.
- D. Engaging the parking brake (spring brakes) on drive wheels during a skid will lock them, making the skid uncontrollable and potentially causing a jackknife.
Drive Wheel Skid Recovery
The procedure for regaining control of a commercial vehicle when the drive wheels lose traction and begin to slide sideways.
- Release the accelerator to reduce power to the skidding wheels.
- Counter-steer gently in the direction of the skid.
- Do not use the service brakes heavily or lock the wheels.
- Regain control, then adjust speed and direction.
Memory trick: Gas off, steer to the tail, then you'll prevail.