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Question:

What is the safest way to control your speed on a downgrade?

Answer: Using engine braking

Explanation
On very long downgrades, your brakes simply won't be able to do the job on their own; if you select the correct low gear, the effect of engine braking will allow you to preserve your brakes for particularly steep areas, rather than using them all the time and seeing them fade.
This question is in Section 1: General Knowledge of our CDL Test Guide. Explore now!
Related Question

Question: Which of the following is MOST likely to get stuck on raised railroad crossings?

A low slung car carrier

Emptier vehicles ride higher, which is a problem for overhead clearance, but can be a boon when it comes to clearing crossings. A filled moving fan might have trouble, but an empty one should be fine. On the other hand, a filled low slung unit, like a car carrier, may be in trouble.

Question: If you have an automatic transmission, when should you downshift?

When you're going down steep grades

When you have an automatic transmission, selecting a low range allows engine braking to slow your acceleration on steep grades.

Question: The distance that you should look ahead of your vehicle while driving amounts to about ___ miles at normal highway speed

1/4.

Question: Where should the ignition key be during the pre-trip inspection?

In your pocket.

Question: Which of these statements about emergency steering is true?

1. You can almost always stop more quickly than you can turn.

2. Quick steering movements should only be done with the wheels locked.

3. If an oncoming driver drifts into your lane, a move to your right may be best.

If an oncoming driver drifts into your lane, a move to your right may be best.

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