CDL General Knowledge TestDriving SafelyEasy
What is the primary reason for a commercial driver to perform a 'one-two-three' count when starting the vehicle after a stop at a railroad crossing?
- ATo synchronize the vehicle's speed with the flow of traffic on the other side.
- BTo allow enough time for the air brakes to fully release before moving.
- CTo confirm that the train has cleared the crossing and there are no other trains approaching.
- DTo ensure the engine has reached optimal operating temperature.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. To confirm that the train has cleared the crossing and there are no other trains approaching.
The 'one-two-three' count is a safety measure to ensure that the driver has visually confirmed that the tracks are clear in both directions and no other trains are approaching before proceeding across the tracks.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Synchronizing with traffic is a general driving consideration, not the primary reason for this specific railroad crossing safety count.
- B. While air brakes need to release, the 'one-two-three' count is specifically for train clearance, not brake function.
- D. Engine temperature is not related to the 'one-two-three' count at a railroad crossing.
Railroad Crossing 'One-Two-Three' Count
A safety procedure at railroad crossings where a commercial driver visually confirms the tracks are clear in both directions, looking left, then right, then left again, before proceeding.
- Ensures no second train is approaching.
- Prevents proceeding when a train is obscured or another is coming.
- Critical for CMV safety due to longer stopping distances and lower maneuverability.
Memory trick: Look left, then right, then left again, before you cross the train.