1150FosterAvenue

Nashvi
ll
e,Tennessee37243
www.tn.
gov/
safety
 Table Of Contents

Introduction.........................................................................1-1
Driving Safely .....................................................................2-1
Transporting Cargo Safely..................................................3-1
Transporting Passengers Safely ........................................4-1
Air Brakes...........................................................................5-1
Combination Vehicles.........................................................6-1
Doubles and Triples ...........................................................7-1
Tank Vehicles.....................................................................8-1
Hazardous Materials ..........................................................9-1
School Bus .......................................................................10-1
Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection ..............................................11-1
Basic Vehicle Control Skills Test ......................................12-1
On-Road Driving...............................................................13-1
Sharing the Road Safely…..………………………………..14-1

This material is based upon work supported by the Federal Motor Carrier
Safety Administration under Cooperative Agreement No. DTFH61-97-X-
00017. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in
this publication are those of the Author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the
view of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

least 10,001 pounds. Another example is a truck

Section 1 towing a mobile home.
INTRODUCTION Any driver wishing to obtain a Class A with the 57
restriction code will need to take the skills test in a
This Section Covers truck and trailer that has a Gross Combination
Weight Rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more,
• Commercial Driver License Tests provided that the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
• Driver Disqualifications (GVWR) of the trailer is at least 10,001 pounds.
Prior to any CDL skills tests, the vision test and all
• Other Safety Rules applicable CDL knowledge tests must be passed.
There is a federal requirement that each state You must have a CDL to operate:
have minimum standards for the licensing of
commercial drivers. Any single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight
rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more.
This manual provides driver license testing Any combination vehicle with a gross
information for drivers who wish to have a combination weight rating of 26,001 or more
commercial driver license (CDL). This manual does pounds, if the trailer(s) has a GVWR of 10,001 or
NOT provide information on all the federal and more pounds.
state requirements needed before you can drive a
commercial motor vehicle (CMV). Any vehicle designed to transport more than
fifteen (15) passengers in addition to the driver,
Every effort has been made to provide, in this or if the vehicle is used as a school bus,
publication, the most current and accurate regardless of the weight of the vehicle.
information as of November 1, 2010.
Any size vehicle which requires hazardous
Misprints or outdated information that may material placards, or is carrying material listed as
appear within these pages will not override a select agent or toxin in 42 CFR part 73. Federal
or supersede changes that ha ve occurred in regulations through the Department of Homeland
the la w, promulgated rules and regulations or Security require a background check and
policy that has been initiated since the fingerprinting for the Hazardous Materials
printing date. endorsement.

This manual does not give a complete Rules for securing the transportation of hazardous
statement of all Tennessee traffic laws and materials (including explosives) are provided by the
may not reflect the most recent changes in Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and
state and federal regulations. For the most the U. S. Department of Transportation. These
current information you should re vie w rules require background checks for commercial
Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 55 and drivers and the collection of those drivers’
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. fingerprints. Applicants are required to have
fingerprints taken by a vendor contracted by the
What is a Commercial Driver License? Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, submit to a
Operators of larger and more complex vehicles will criminal background check completed by TBI and
need to apply for a Commercial Driver License FBI, and submit to a threat assessment conducted
(CDL). These licenses include Class A, B, or C by the TSA. TSA then notifies the State as to
depending upon the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating whether or not the applicant is eligible to receive a
(GVWR), Gross Combination Weight Rating Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME):
(GCWR), and/or what is being transported.
Adding HME- applicants wanting to add the
The Class A with the 57 restriction code (A/57) is hazardous materials endorsement (HME) on their
for drivers that drive combination vehicles that CDL are required to first submit to a vision
would qualify under the Class A category, screening, pass the hazardous materials knowledge
however the power unit can carry a load in test, and then apply through the TSA for a criminal
itself and the trailer has a GVWR of 10,001 pounds background check, and complete the fingerprint
or more. Some examples are a dump truck, or requirement through a vendor contracted by the
delivery truck pulling a trailer with a GVWR of at TBI.

Section 1 - Introduction Page 1-1

2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Transfers – applicants transferring a CDL with Do You Need a CDL?

hazardous materials endorsement (HME) from
another state are required to follow the TSA threat
Does the vehicle or
assessment procedure and to submit to a vision and combination of vehicles
No
knowledge test. If an applicant transferring a CDL have a manufacturer’s
with the hazardous materials endorsement was weight rating (GVWR)
cleared by the TSA 6 months or less prior to their over 26,000 pounds?
request to transfer to Tennessee, a TSA threat
Yes
assessment would not be required.
For more information on a hazardous material
endorsement visit the Tennessee Department of
Is the vehicle
Safety’s webpage : a
tn.gov/safety/driverlicense/hazmat.htm Yes You
combination
vehicle need a
To get a CDL, you must pass a general knowledge towing a unit Class A
test and skills test consisting of a pre-trip over 10,000 CDL.
inspection, basic control maneuvers, and a road pounds
GVWR?
test. This manual will help you pass the tests. This
manual is not a substitute for a truck driver training No
class or program. Formal training is the most
reliable way to learn the many special skills
required for safely driving a large commercial Does the Yes You
vehicle and becoming a professional driver in the single Yes need a
trucking industry. Figure 1.1 below helps you vehicle have Class B
determine if you need a CDL. a GVWR CDL.
over 26,000
pounds?
No

Is the vehicle
designed to You
carry 16 or Yes need a
more people Class C
(including CDL.
the driver)?

No

Does the Yes You

vehicle need a
require Class C
hazardous CDL.
material
placards or
transport a
select agent
or toxin?
No

You DO NOT
need a CDL.

NOTE: A bus may be Class A, B, or C depending on whether

the GVWR is over 26,001 pounds or is a combination
vehicle.
Figure 1.1

Section 1 - Introduction Page 1-2

2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

1.1 – Commercial Driver License Tests similar. The examiner will tell you how each control
test is to be done.
1.1.1 – Knowledge Tests
On-road Test. You will be tested on your skill to
safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic
You will have to take one or more knowledge situations. The situations may include left and right
tests, depending on what class of license and turns, intersections, railroad crossings, curves, up
what endorsements you need. The CDL and down grades, single or multi-lane roads,
knowledge tests include: The general knowledge streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you
test, taken by all applicants. where to drive.
The passenger transport test, taken by all bus
driver applicants. Figure 1.2 details which sections of this manual
you should study for each particular class of
The air brakes test, which you must take if your license and for each endorsement.
vehicle has air brakes, including air over
hydraulic brakes.
What Sections Should You Study?
The combination vehicles test, which is required
if you want to drive combination vehicles. LICENSE
ENDORSEMENT
TYPE
The hazardous materials test, required if you

Class A

Class B

Class C
Materials
Hazardous
Double / Triple

Tank Vehicles

Passenger

School Bus
want to haul hazardous materials as defined in
49 CFR 383.5. In order to obtain this
endorsement you are also required to pass a
Transportation Security Administration (TSA)
background check. Sections to Study
The tanker test, required if you want to haul a 1 X X X
liquid or liquid gas in a permanently mounted
cargo tank rated at 119 gallons or more or a 2 X X X
portable tank rated at 1,000 gallons or more.
The doubles/triples test, required if you want to 3 X X X X X X X
pull double or triple trailers.
The school bus test, required if you want to drive 4 X X
a school bus.
5* X X X X X X X

1.1.2 – Skills Tests 6 X X

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can 7 X

take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of
general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, 8 X
basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You
must take these tests in the type of vehicle for 9 X
which you wish to be licensed. Any vehicle that
has components marked or labeled cannot be
10 X
used for the Pre-Trip Inspection Test.
11 X X X X X
Pre-trip Vehicle Inspection. You will be tested to
see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to
drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection 12 X X X X X
of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what
you would inspect and why. 13 X X X X X
*Study section 5 if you plan to operate vehicles
Basic Vehicle Control. You will be tested on your equipped with air brakes.
skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to
move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it
within a defined area. These areas may be marked Figure 1.2 – What to Study
with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

1.2 – CDL Disqualifications You will lose your CDL:

1.2.1 – General For at least 60 days if you have committed two

You may not drive a commercial motor vehicle if serious traffic violations within a three-year period
you are disqualified for any reason. involving a CMV.
For at least 120 days for three or more serious
1.2.2 – Alcohol, Leaving the Scene of an traffic violations within a three-year period
Accident, and Commission of a Felony involving a CMV.
It is illegal to operate a CMV if your blood alcohol 1.2.4 – Violation of Out-of-Service Orders
concentration (BAC) is .04% or more. If you
operate a CMV, you shall be deemed to have
You will lose your CDL:
given your consent to alcohol testing.

You will lose your CDL for at least one year for a For at least 180 days if you have committed your
first offense for: first violation of an out-of-service order.
Driving a CMV if your blood alcohol concentration For at least two years if you have committed two
is .04% or higher. violations of an out-of-service order in a ten-year
period.
Driving a CMV under the influence of alcohol.
For at least three years if you have committed
Refusing to undergo blood alcohol testing.
three or more violations of an out-of-service order
Driving a CMV while under the influence of a in a ten-year period].
controlled substance.
1.2.5 – Railroad-highway Grade Crossing
Leaving the scene of an accident involving a
CMV. Violations

Committing a felony involving the use of a CMV. You will lose your CDL:
Driving a CMV when the CDL is suspended. For at least 60 days for your first violation.
Causing a fatality through negligent operation of For at least 120 days for your second violation
a CMV. within a three-year period.

You will lose your CDL for at least three years if For at least one year for your third violation within
the offense occurs while you are operating a CMV a three-year period.
that is placarded for hazardous materials.
These violations include violation of a federal, state
You will lose your CDL for life for a second offense. or local law or regulation pertaining to one of the
following six offenses at a railroad-highway grade
You will lose your CDL for life if you use a CMV to crossing:
commit a felony involving controlled substances. For drivers who are not required to always stop,
failing to stop before reaching the crossing if the
You will be put out-of-service for 24 hours if you tracks are not clear.
have any detectable amount of alcohol under
.04%. For drivers who are not required to always stop,
failing to slow down and check that the tracks are
1.2.3 – Serious Traffic Violations clear of an approaching train.
Serious traffic violations are excessive speeding For drivers who are always required to stop,
(15 mph or more above the posted limit), reckless failing to stop before driving onto the crossing.
driving, improper or erratic lane changes, following For all drivers failing to have sufficient space to
a vehicle too closely, traffic offenses committed in drive completely through the crossing without
a CMV in connection with fatal traffic accidents, stopping.
driving a CMV without obtaining a CDL or having a
CDL in the driver’s possession, driving a CMV For all drivers failing to obey a traffic control
without the proper class of CDL and/or device or the directions of an enforcement official
endorsements , and violating a state or local law or at the crossing.
ordinance on motor vehicle traffic control prohibiting
texting while driving.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

For all drivers failing to negotiate a crossing If your license to operate your personal vehicle is
because of insufficient undercarriage clearance. revoked, cancelled, or suspended you may not
obtain a “hardship” license to operate a CMV.
1.2.6 – Hazardous Materials Endorsement
Background Check and Disqualifications 1.3 – Other CDL Rules
There are other federal and state rules that affect
If you require a hazardous materials endorsement drivers operating CMVs in all states. Among them
you will be required to submit your fingerprints and are:
be subject to a background check.
You cannot have more than one license. If you
You will be denied or you will lose your hazardous break this rule, a court may fine you up to $5,000
materials endorsement if you: or put you in jail and keep your home state
license and return any others.
Are not a lawful permanent resident of the United
States. You must notify your employer within 30 days of
conviction for any traffic violations (except
Renounce your United States citizenship. parking). This is true no matter what type of
Are wanted or under indictment for certain vehicle you were driving.
felonies. You must notify your motor vehicle licensing
Have a conviction in military or civilian court for agency within 30 days if you are convicted in any
certain felonies. other jurisdiction of any traffic violation (except
parking). This is true no matter what type of
Have been adjudicated as a mental defective or vehicle you were driving.
committed to a mental institution.
49 CFR 384.226- Prohibition on Masking
Are considered to pose a security threat as Convictions. Prevents states from masking,
determined by the Transportation Security deferring imposition of judgement, or allowing an
Administration. individual to enter into a diversion program that
The background check procedures vary from would prevent a CDL driver’s conviction for any
jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Your licensing agency violation, in any type of motor vehicle, from
will provide you with all the information you need appearing on the driver record, whether the driver
to complete the required TSA background check was convicted in the state where the driver is
procedures. licensed or another state. For example, federal
rules do not allow a driver to have a conviction
downgraded for paying court costs or attending
1.2.7 – Traffic Violations in Your Personal driving school. Once a driver is found guilty, the
Vehicle charges cannot be reduced.
The Motor Carrier Safety Improvement Act You must notify your employer within two
(MCSIA) of 1999 requires a CDL holder to be business days if your license is suspended,
disqualified from operating a commercial motor revoked, or canceled, or if you are disqualified
vehicle if the CDL holder has been convicted of from driving.
certain types of moving violations in their personal
vehicle. You must give your employer information on all
driving jobs you have held for the past 10 years.
You must do this when you apply for a
If your privilege to operate your personal vehicle is commercial driving job.
revoked, cancelled, or suspended due to violations
of traffic control laws (other than parking violations) No one can drive a commercial motor vehicle
you will also lose your CDL driving privileges. without a CDL. A court may fine you up to $5,000
or put you in jail for breaking this rule.
If your privilege to operate your personal vehicle is If you have a hazardous materials endorsement
revoked, cancelled, or suspended due to alcohol, you must notify and surrender your hazardous
controlled substance or felony violations, you will materials endorsement to the state that issued
lose your CDL for 1 year. If you are convicted of a your CDL within 24 hours of any conviction or
second violation in your personal vehicle or CMV indictment in any jurisdiction, civilian or military,
you will lose your CDL for life. for, or found not guilty by reason of insanity of a
disqualifying crime listed in 49 CFR 1572.103;
who is adjudicated as a mental defective or
committed to a mental institution as specified in

Section 1 - Introduction Page 1-5

2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

49 CFR 1572.109; or who renounces his or her of birth, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands,
U. S. citizenship; Guam, American Somoa or the
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana
Your employer may not let you drive a
Islands.
commercial motor vehicle if you have more than
one license or if your CDL is suspended or  Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA)
revoked. A court may fine the employer up to issued by the U.S. Department of State.
$5,000 or put him/her in jail for breaking this rule.
 Certificate of Naturalization issued by the
All states are connected to one computerized U.S. Department of Homeland Security
system to share information about CDL drivers. (DHS)
The states will check on drivers' accident records
to be sure that drivers do not have more than one  Certificate of U.S. Citizenship issued by
CDL. DHS.

You must be properly restrained by a safety belt Acceptable Documents for Proof of Lawful
at all times while operating a commercial motor Permanent Resident Status
vehicle. The safety belt design holds the driver
securely behind the wheel during a crash, helping  Valid, unexpired Permanent Resident
the driver to control the vehicle and reduces the Card issued by United States Customs
chance of serious injury or death. If you do not and Immigration Services (USCIS) or
wear a safety belt, you are four times more likely Immigration and Naturalization Service
to be fatally injured if you are thrown from the (INS).
vehicle.
4. You must have a valid, current DOT medical
card. This is also required if you are employed
by a government entity and require the
1.4 – Applying for a Commercial Driver passenger, school bus or hazardous material
License (CDL) or permit in the endorsement(s).
State of Tennessee 5. You must provide two proofs of domicile and
either a Tennessee license or valid CDL from
To apply for a Commercial Driver’s License or another state.
permit, you must meet all the qualifications
described below: Proof of Tennessee domicile will be required for
original, reinstatement, new, returning residents,
1. You must be at least twenty-one (21) years of CDL permits, CDL conversions and a CDL
age. EXCEPTIONS: if you operate a vehicle upgrade. Original documents must be shown.
solely intrastate and within 100 miles of job,
and your vehicle requires no special Domicile is the person’s fixed, permanent and
endorsements, you may obtain a B license at principal home for legal purposes and to
age 18. At age 19 you can obtain a Class A which a person has the intention of returning
or Class B license without endorsement. whenever he/she is absent.

2. You must not currently be under a driver Resident means every person that makes
license suspension, cancellation or revocation Tennessee their state of domicile, or lives in
in the State of Tennessee or any other state. Tennessee for a consecutive period of time
exceeding thirty (30) days and has taken
3. An applicant for a CDL must be able to provide employment or would qualify as a registered
proof of U.S. Citizenship or Lawful Permanent voter.
Resident status in order to qualify for issuance
of a Tennessee CDL. Acceptable Domicile Documents
Acceptable Documents for Proof of U.S.
Citizenship  Current utility bill including landline
telephone, electric, water, gas, cable,
 Valid, unexpired U.S. Passport etc.includes “bundle” packages,
(Wireless telephone bills cannot be
 Certified copy of a birth certificate filed
accepted).
with a State office of Vital Statistics or
equivalent agency in the individual’s state

Section 1 - Introduction Page 1-6

2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

 Current vehicle registration (personal technicians. IMPORTANT: This military

vehicle not company vehicle) dated exemption only applies to those drivers
within the last 12 months. when operating a commercial vehicle for
 Tennessee vehicle title showing military purposes.
Tennessee address (you can use either
title or vehicle registration but not both 4. Operators of recreational vehicles.
as proofs).
 Mortgage papers – such as the property 5. Operators of vehicles leased strictly to
deed or mortgage payment transport personal possessions for non-
coupon/book. business purposes.
 Copy of Lease Agreement or Contract
with notarized signatures OR
accompanied by signed realty agency 1.6 – Learner Permits
letterhead confirming lease validity.
 Voter registration card – NOT the In order to get a learner permit for a CDL,
application for voter registration. applicants must meet the same qualifications as for
 Military LES papers listing Tennessee as a full CDL, and pass all knowledge tests required
home of record. for the vehicle they intend to operate.

 Current filed Internal Revenue Service Learner permits are issued for 12 months from the
tax return – (not tax return booklet). date of issuance and cost $14 for a Class PA or
$13 for a Class PB or Class PC. There is an
NOTE: (Internal Revenue Service E-filed
additional charge of $2.50 for each endorsement.
returns must include the W-2 form AND The permit will be added to the license a driver
confirmation page and are acceptable already has, which will more than likely have a
different expiration date.
only if dated within the previous tax year)
Drivers with a learner permit may operate a
commercial vehicle only when someone with a
ALL DOCUMENTS MUST INCLUDE A valid CDL for that class of vehicle is
TENNESSEE RESIDENTAL ADDRESS. THE accompanying them in the front seat of the
SAME TENNESSEE ADDRESS MUST BE ON vehicle.
ALL DOCUMENTS PRESENTED.
1.7- Where to Apply
1.5 – Exemptions
The Commercial Driver License knowledge test(s)
Exemptions from Commercial Driver to be eligible to obtain a commercial driver license
License: the following drivers are not learner permit, is offered at most Driver Service
required to obtain a CDL in Tennessee: Centers located throughout the state. Additional
information on each Driver License Service Center
1. Farmers or nurserymen transporting location, including hours of operation, can be
agricultural products, farm machinery or farm obtained online at: tn.gov/safety
supplies to and from a farm or nursery, as long
as the vehicle is operated inside the state of All Commercial Driver License (CDL) skills tests
Tennessee within 150 miles of the farm or are administered by appointment only at the
nursery, and is not used as a common or following locations throughout the state:
contract motor carrier.
Chattanooga-Bonny Oaks (Hamilton Co.)
2. Operators of emergency vehicles.
Cookeville (Putnam Co.)
3. Active duty military personnel; members of the
Jackson (Madison Co.)
military reserves; member of the national
guard on active duty, including personnel on Johnson City (Washington Co.)
full-time national guard duty, personnel on
Knoxville-Strawberry Plains (Knox Co.)
part-time national guard training, and national
uard military technicians (civilians who are Nashville-Hart Lane (Davidson Co.)
required to wear military uniforms); and active
Columbia (Maury Co.)
duty U.S. Coast Guard personnel. This
exception is not applicable to U.S. Reserve Memphis (Shelby Co.)

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Restriction Codes
Please assist us in providing the best possible Commercial Driver Licenses
service by keeping your appointment.
Code Description
CDL skills tests can be scheduled for any of the Code L- Vehicle Driver not permitted to drive with
without Air Brakes Air Brakes because:
Commercial Driver License Road Skills Test
locations across the state by calling the CDL Road ●Did not take Air Brakes
Test Skills appointment line at 615-251-5217 knowledge test,
between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. CST or
Monday through Friday. We are closed for ● did not take CDL skills test in a
observance of all state holidays. vehicle equipped with Air Brakes

If you cannot keep your appointment, call the driver Code 51- Intrastate Used for all CDL's issued to a
service center where your appointment is Only driver under 21 years of age
scheduled at least 24 hours in advance so another
fellow driver from the waiting list can be scheduled Code 52- For drivers that drive government
in place of your appointment. Government vehicles only. (Cannot have
Vehicles Only school bus, passenger or hazmat
endorsement)

Code 53-Intracity For driver who does not meet

Zone Only DOT physical standards but are
allowed by FMCSA to drive their
CMV in a very limited area.
Code 54-Intrastate For drivers who are required to
Only, Medical meet DOT physical standards but
Endorsements to a Limitation fail those standards due to less
than 20/40 vision in one eye only
Tennessee Commercial or insulin controlled diabetes.
Driver License Can drive only within State of TN
in intrastate commerce. P,S, & H
endorsements not allowed.

N Permanent Tanks, or Portable Tanks Code 55- Except Issued to drivers with a Class A
of Rated Capacity of 1000 gallons of Class A Bus who are licensed to drive Class
liquid or gaseous material B or Class C passenger with
capacity of 16 or more including
H Hazardous materials (Haz Mat) driver

X Permanent Tanks, or Portable Tanks Code 56 Except Issued to Class A or Class B

of Rated Capacity of 1000 gallons of Class A and Class drivers with a passenger
liquid or gaseous material required to B Bus endorsement to drive passenger
be placarded vehicles that have a rated
capacity of 16 or more
T Double/Triple trailers passengers including the driver
that weighs 26,000 GVWR or
P 16 or more passengers including
less.
driver
S School Bus 57-Except Added to the Class A only, for
Tractor-Trailer drivers who operate a vehicle
GCWR Gross Combination Weight meeting Class A weight
Rating definitions, but the power unit
alone is also capable of carrying
GVWR Gross Vehicle Weight Rating loads. Examples: Dump truck
towing a backhoe. Truck towing
a mobile home.
Figure 1.3

Figure 1.4

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

For All Commercial Drivers,

Before you apply for your Be sure to bring with you:
CDL…
 Your current valid medical card (see
Prepare for your test Obtain Your D.O.T. Medical Card)
 The CDL Knowledge test can be taken  Any and all driver licenses, and state
at any full-service Driver Service Center. issued ID’s.
 You will not have to study this entire  Proof of your Social Security Number.
manual. See Figure 1.2 on page 1.3
 Allow yourself plenty of time for your  Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Lawful
tests: Permanent Resident Status.
 At least one hour for the General  Two proofs of domicile and either a
Knowledge test, and an additional 20-30 Tennessee license or valid CDL from
minutes for each additional test. Try to another state.
arrive as early in the day as possible.
 Stations have different operating Acceptable Documents for U.S. Citizenship
schedules, so check ahead of time for  Valid, unexpired U.S. Passport
days and hours of operation.
 If you need an oral test, please call  Certified copy of a birth certificate filed
ahead of time for an appointment. with a State office of Vital Statistics or
equivalent agency in the individual’s
state of birth, Puerto Rico, the Virgin
Obtain Your D.O.T. Medical Card Islands, Guam, American Somoa or the
 All drivers applying for a CDL license Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana
must have a current, valid DOT medical Islands.
card before they are allowed to renew,  Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA)
get a duplicate, take a test or in any way issued by the U.S. Department of State.
proceed with the CDL process.
 Certificate of Naturalization issued by the
 Having a current, valid medical card is U.S. Department of Homeland Security
also required if you are employed by a (DHS).
government entity and require the
passenger, school bus or hazardous  Certificate of U.S. Citizenship issued by
material endorsement(s). DHS.

Acceptable Documents for Lawful Permanent

Call the CDL Help Desk at 615-251-5217
Resident Status
between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4:30
p.m. CST Monday through Friday to  Valid, unexpired Permanent Resident
make an appointment for a CDL Road Card issued by United States Customs
Skills Test for any CDL Skills Testing and Immigration Services (USCIS) or
location across the state. Immigration and Naturalization Service
(INS).
 You must provide your own vehicle.
 Vehicle must be of the same class as
Acceptable Domicile Documents
the license you need and must be
empty.  Current utility bill including telephone,
electric, water, gas, cable, etc.
 Allow 1 to 2 hours for your road skills
(includes “bundle” packages. Wireless
test.
telephone bills cannot be accepted.)
 If you cancel your appointment less than
 Current vehicle registration (personal
24 hours in advance, you will be placed
vehicle not company vehicle) dated
at the end of the waiting list for future
within the last 12 months
appointments.

Section 1 - Introduction Page 1-9

2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

 TN vehicle title showing TN address from the list of acceptable domicile documents in
(can use a title or vehicle registration as the name of the immediate relative.
proof but not both).
CDL applicants using items in the name of one of
 Mortgage papers – such as the property these immediate relatives as proof of domicile
deed or mortgage payment coupon/book must also provide proof of the relationship such as:
 Spouse = marriage certificate
 Copy of Lease Agreement or Contract
with notarized signatures OR  Parent/Child = birth certificate(s)
accompanied by signed realty agency showing parent and child's full
letterhead confirming lease validity. names.
 Sibling = both the applicant’s AND
 Voter registration card – NOT the
the sibling’s birth certificates in
application for voter registration.
order to verify they share at least
 Military LES papers listing Tennessee as one common parent. Also the
home of record marriage certificate for the sibling if
 Current filed Internal Revenue Service their current last name is different
tax return-Not tax return booklet from their birth name.
 Grandparent = applicant's birth
NOTE: Internal Revenue Service E- certificate AND birth certificate of
filed returns must include the applicant's parent. This is
the W-2 form AND necessary to show that the
confirmation page and are grandparent is the mother/father of
acceptable and within the
the applicant’s parent.
previous tax year
 Step-parents or step-siblings =
No photocopies can be accepted! applicant’s birth certificate AND the
parent’s marriage certificate
ALL DOCUMENTS MUST INCLUDE A verifying the step-parent’s marriage
TENNESSEE RESIDENTAL ADDRESS. THE to one of the birth parents as
SAME TENNESSEE ADDRESS MUST BE ON shown on the applicant’s birth
ALL DOCUMENTS PRESENTED. certificate. For step-siblings this
would require the birth certificate
Applying for a School Bus Endorsement
for the applicant and sibling as well
If you are applying for the School Bus
as the parent’s marriage certificate.
endorsement, you will need to provide a Form 2C
from your employer. If you will be driving for a Unacceptable documents include:
private school, you will need a letter from your  Bank statements
employer (on school letterhead) instead of the  Wireless telephone bills
Form 2-C. Tennessee Law requires that you be  Credit card statements
hired by a school system before testing for a  Utility connection or deposit receipt
school bus endorsement. The Form 2-C or letter  Employer letters
from the private school is the required proof of  Extended stay hotel receipts
employment  Magazine subscriptions or junk mail
 Personal or business postmarked mail
PROOF OF RELATIONSHIP  Prescription bottles
Domicile may also be established through proof of  USCIS identity documents (i.e. I-551,
relationship to a spouse, parent/child, sibling or I-766, Visas, etc.)
grandparent.  Hunting, fishing or boating licenses
 Letters from a public or private school or
The spouse, parent/child, sibling, or grandparent educational institution
MUST hold a valid Tennessee driver license or
identification license AND be present at the Driver
Services Center with the CDL applicant upon initial
application.
The CDL applicant will be required to present two
(2) items with a Tennessee residential address

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

• Travel Document issued to Permanent PROOF OF RELATIONSHIP

Residents and Refugees ( I-327 & I-571)
Domicile may also be established through proof of
relationship to a spouse, parent/child, sibling or
Acceptable Domicile Documents grandparent.
• Current utility bill including telephone, The spouse, parent/child, sibling, or grandparent
electric, water, gas, cable, etc. MUST hold a valid Tennessee driver license or
(includes “bundle” packages. Wireless identification license AND be present at the Driver
telephone bills cannot be accepted.) Services Center with the CDL applicant upon initial
• Current vehicle registration (personal application.
vehicle not company vehicle) dated The CDL applicant will be required to present two
within the last 12 months (2) items with a Tennessee residential address
• TN vehicle title showing TN address from the list of acceptable domicile documents in
(can use a title or vehicle registration as the name of the immediate relative.
proof but not both). CDL applicants using items in the name of one of
• Mortgage papers – such as the property these immediate relatives as proof of domicile
deed or mortgage payment coupon/book must also provide proof of the relationship such as:
• Spouse = marriage certificate
• Copy of Lease Agreement or Contract
• Parent/Child = birth certificate(s)
with notarized signatures OR
accompanied by signed realty agency
showing parent and child's full
letterhead confirming lease validity. names.
• Sibling = both the applicant’s AND
• Voter registration card – NOT the the sibling’s birth certificates in
application for voter registration. order to verify they share at least
• Military LES papers listing Tennessee one common parent. Also the
as home of record marriage certificate for the sibling if
• Current filed Internal Revenue Service their current last name is different
tax return-Not tax return booklet from their birth name.
• Grandparent = applicant's birth
NOTE: Internal Revenue Service E- certificate AND birth certificate of
filed returns must include the applicant's parent. This is
the W-2 form AND necessary to show that the
confirmation page and are grandparent is the mother/father of
acceptable and within the the applicant’s parent.
previous tax year
• Step-parents or step-siblings =
applicant’s birth certificate AND the
No photocopies can be accepted!
parent’s marriage certificate
ALL DOCUMENTS MUST INCLUDE A verifying the step-parent’s marriage
TENNESSEE RESIDENTAL ADDRESS. THE to one of the birth parents as
SAME TENNESSEE ADDRESS MUST BE ON shown on the applicant’s birth
ALL DOCUMENTS PRESENTED. certificate. For step-siblings this
would require the birth certificate
Applying for a School Bus Endorsement for the applicant and sibling as well
as the parent’s marriage certificate.
If you are applying for the School Bus
endorsement, you will need to provide a Form 2C
from your employer. If you will be driving for a Unacceptable documents include:
private school, you will need a letter from your  Bank statements
employer (on school letterhead) instead of the  Wireless telephone bills
Form 2-C. Tennessee Law requires that you be  Credit card statements
hired by a school system before testing for a  Utility connection or deposit receipt
school bus endorsement. The Form 2-C or letter  Employer letters
from the private school is the required proof of  Extended stay hotel receipts
employment  Magazine subscriptions or junk mail
 Personal or business postmarked mail

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

 Prescription bottles jurisdiction for the reporting and payment of motor

 USCIS identity documents (i.e. I-551, fuel use taxes.
I-766, Visas, etc.)
 Hunting, fishing or boating licenses Under the IFTA, a licensee is issued one set of
 Letters from a public or private school or credentials which will authorize operations through
educational institution all IFTA member jurisdictions. The fuel use taxes
collected pursuant to the IFTA are calculated
Fees for Common, Basic CDL’s based on the number of miles (kilometers) traveled
and the number of gallons (liters) consumed in the
(Issued for 5 years) member jurisdictions. The licensee files one
quarterly tax return with the base jurisdiction by
NOTE: The length of your license is determined which the licensee will report all operations through
by the “Drive for Five” law. It may actually be from all IFTA member jurisdictions.
4 to 7 years, depending upon the date of your next
birthday evenly divided by 5. The cost is: It is the base jurisdiction's responsibility to remit
the taxes collected to other member jurisdictions
• Class A: $46 ($6 non-refundable
and to represent the other member jurisdictions in
application fee plus $40 license fee).
the tax collection process, including the
• Class B or C: $41 ($6 non-refundable performance of audits.
application fee plus $35 license fee).
An IFTA licensee must retain records to support
• Add $2.50 for each endorsement you
the information reported on the IFTA quarterly tax
require, plus $18.50 for motorcycle
return
class.
The IRP registrant and the IFTA licensee may
be the vehicle owner or the vehicle operator.
1.8– International Registration Plan
International Fuel Tax Agreement The requirement for acquiring IRP plates for a
vehicle and IFTA license for a motor carrier is
If you operate a CDL required vehicle in interstate determined by the definitions from the IRP Plan
commerce, the vehicle, with few exceptions, is and the IFTA for Qualified Vehicle and Qualified
required to be registered under the International Motor Vehicle:
Registration Plan (IRP) and the International Fuel
Tax Agreement (IFTA). These federally mandated For purposes of IRP:
programs provide for the equitable collection and A Qualified Vehicle is (except as provided
distribution of vehicle license fees and motor fuels below) any Power Unit that is used or
taxes for vehicles traveling throughout the 48 intended for use in two or more Member
contiguous United States and 10 Canadian Jurisdictions and that is used for the
provinces. transportation of persons for hire or designed,
used, or maintained primarily for the
Under the IRP, jurisdictions must register transportation of property, and:
apportioned vehicles which includes issuing
license plates and cab cards or proper credentials, (i) has two Axles and a gross Vehicle weight or
calculate, collect and distribute IRP fees, audit registered gross Vehicle weight in
carriers for accuracy of reported distance and fees excess of 26,000 pounds (11,793.401
and enforce IRP requirements. kilograms), or
(ii) has three or more Axles, regardless of
Registrant responsibilities under the Plan include weight, or
applying for IRP registration with base jurisdiction, (iii) is used in combination, when the gross
providing proper documentation for registration, Vehicle weight of such combination exceeds
paying appropriate IRP registration fees, properly
displaying registration credentials, maintaining
accurate distance records, and making records
available for jurisdiction review.

The basic concept behind IFTA is to allow a

licensee (motor carrier) to license in a base

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

26,000 pounds (11,793.401 kilograms). Fuel

While similar, the Qualified Motor Vehicle in Per Section P560 of the IFTA Procedures
IFTA means a motor vehicle used, designed, or Manual
maintained for transportation of persons or .300 An acceptable receipt or invoice must
property and: include, but shall not be limited to, the
1) Having two axles and a gross vehicle following:
weight or registered gross vehicle .005 Date of purchase
weight exceeding 26,000 pounds or .010 Seller's name and address
11,797 kilograms; or .015 Number of gallons or liters purchased;
.020 Fuel type
2) Having three or more axles regardless
.025 Price per gallon or liter or total amount of
of weight; or
sale
3) Is used in combination, when the .030 Unit number or other unique vehicle
weight of such combination exceeds identifier
26,000 pounds or 11,797 kilograms gross .035 Purchaser's name
vehicle or registered gross vehicle
weight. Qualified Motor Vehicle does An example of an IVDR that must be completed in
not include recreational vehicles. its entirety for each trip can be found in Figure 1
below. Each individual IVDR should be filled out
If the vehicle you operate is registered under IRP for only one vehicle. The rules to follow when
and you are a motor carrier licensed under IFTA, trying to determine how and when to log an
then you are required to comply with the odometer reading are the following:
mandatory record keeping requirements for
 At the beginning of the day
operating the vehicle. A universally accepted
 When leaving the state or province
method of capturing this information is through the
 At the end of the trip/day
completion of an Individual Vehicle Distance
Record (IVDR), sometimes referred to as a
Not only do the trips need to be logged, but the fuel
Driver Trip Report. This document reflects the
purchases need to be documented as well. You
distance traveled and fuel purchased for a vehicle
must obtain a receipt for all fueling and include it with
that operates interstate under apportioned (IRP)
your completed IVDR.
registration and IFTA fuel tax credentials.
Make sure that any trips that you enter are always
Although the actual format of the IVDR may vary, filled out in descending order and that your trips
the information that is required for proper record include all state/provinces that you traveled through
keeping does not. on your route.

In order to satisfy the requirements for Individual There are different routes that a driver may take,
Vehicle Distance Records, these documents must and most of the miles may be within one state or
include the following information: province. Whether or not the distance you travel is
primarily in one jurisdiction or spread among
Distance several jurisdictions, all information for the trip
must be recorded. This includes the dates, the
Per Article IV of the IRP Plan routes, odometer readings and fuel purchases.
(i) Date of trip (starting and ending)
(ii) Trip origin and destination – City and State By completing this document in full and keeping all
or Province records required by both the IRP and the IFTA, you
(iii) Route(s) of travel will have ensured that you and your company are
(iv) Beginning and ending odometer or in compliance with all State and Provincial laws
hubodometer reading of the trip surrounding fuel and distance record keeping
(v) Total distance traveled requirements.
(vi) In-Jurisdiction distance
(vii) Power unit number or vehicle identification The IVDR serves as the source document for the
number. calculation of fees and taxes that are payable to
the jurisdictions in which the vehicle is operated, so
these original records must be maintained for a
minimum of four years.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

In addition, these records are subject to audit by

the taxing jurisdictions. Failure to maintain
complete and accurate records could result in
fines, penalties and suspension or revocation of
IRP registrations and IFTA licenses.

For additional information on the IRP and the

requirements related to the IRP, contact your base
jurisdiction motor vehicle department or IRP, Inc.
the official repository for the IRP. Additional
information can be found on the IRP, Inc. website .
at www.irponline.org. There is a training video on
the website home page available in English,
Spanish and French.

For additional information on IFTA and the

requirements related to IFTA, contact the
appropriate agency in your base jurisdiction. You
will also find useful information about the
Agreement at the official repository of IFTA at
http://www.iftach.org/index.php

Figure 1 – Individual Vehicle Mileage & Fuel Record (Example)

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

dollars, or even worse, a crash caused by the

Section 2 defect.
DRIVING SAFELY Federal and state laws require that drivers inspect
their vehicles. Federal and state inspectors also
This Section Covers may inspect your vehicles. If they judge the vehicle
to be unsafe, they will put it "out of service" until it
• Vehicle Inspection is fixed.
• Basic Control of Your Vehicle
• Shifting Gears 2.1.2 – Types of Vehicle Inspection
• Seeing Pre-trip Inspection. A pre-trip inspection will help
• Communicating you find problems that could cause a crash or
• Space Management breakdown.
• Controlling Your Speed
• Seeing Hazards During a Trip. For safety you should:
• Distracted Driving Watch gauges for signs of trouble.
• Aggressive Drivers/Road Rage Use your senses to check for problems (look,
• Night Driving listen, smell, feel).
• Driving in Fog Check critical items when you stop:
• Winter Driving • Tires, wheels and rims.
• Hot Weather Driving • Brakes.
• Railroad-highway Crossings • Lights and reflectors.
• Mountain Driving • Brake and electrical connections to trailer.
• Trailer coupling devices.
• Driving Emergencies • Cargo securement devices.
• Antilock Braking Systems
• Skid Control and Recovery After-trip Inspection and Report. You should do
• Accident Procedures an after-trip inspection at the end of the trip, day,
• Fires or tour of duty on each vehicle you operated. It
may include filling out a vehicle condition report
• Alcohol, Other Drugs, and Driving listing any problems you find. The inspection report
• Staying Alert and Fit to Drive helps a motor carrier know when the vehicle needs
• Hazardous Materials Rules repairs.

This section contains knowledge and safe driving 2.1.3 – What to Look For
information that all commercial drivers should
know. You must pass a test on this information to Tire Problems
get a CDL. This section does not have specific
information on air brakes, combination vehicles, Too much or too little air pressure.
doubles, or passenger vehicles. When preparing Bad wear. You need at least 4/32-inch tread
for the Pre-trip Inspection Test, you must review depth in every major groove on front tires. You
the material in Section 11 in addition to the need 2/32 inch on other tires. No fabric should
information in this section. This section does have show through the tread or sidewall.
basic information on hazardous materials (HazMat)
that all drivers should know. If you need a HazMat Cuts or other damage.
endorsement, you should study Section 9. Tread separation.
Dual tires that come in contact with each other or
2.1 – Vehicle Inspection parts of the vehicle.

2.1.1 – Why Inspect Mismatched sizes.

Safety is the most important reason you inspect Radial and bias-ply tires used together.
your vehicle, safety for yourself and for other road Cut or cracked valve stems.
users.
A vehicle defect found during an inspection could Regrooved, recapped, or retreaded tires on the
save you problems later. You could have a front wheels of a bus. These are prohibited.
breakdown on the road that will cost time and

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Wheel and Rim Problems Any loose, cracked, broken, or missing frame
members.
Damaged rims.
Rust around wheel nuts may mean the nuts are
loose--check tightness. After a tire has been
changed, stop a short while later and re-check
tightness of nuts.
Missing clamps, spacers, studs, or lugs means
danger.
Mismatched, bent, or cracked lock rings are
dangerous.
Wheels or rims that have had welding repairs are
not safe.

Bad Brake Drums or Shoes

Cracked drums.
Shoes or pads with oil, grease, or brake fluid on
them.
Shoes worn dangerously thin, missing, or broken.

Steering System Defects Figure 2.1

Missing nuts, bolts, cotter keys, or other parts.
Bent, loose, or broken parts, such as steering
column, steering gear box, or tie rods.
If power steering equipped, check hoses, pumps,
and fluid level; check for leaks.
Steering wheel play of more than 10 degrees
(approximately 2 inches movement at the rim of a
20-inch steering wheel) can make it hard to steer.

Suspension System Defects. The suspension

system holds up the vehicle and its load. It keeps
the axles in place. Therefore, broken suspension
parts can be extremely dangerous. Look for:
Spring hangers that allow movement of axle from
proper position. See Figure 2.2.
Cracked or broken spring hangers.
Missing or broken leaves in any leaf spring. If
one-fourth or more are missing, it will put the
vehicle "out of service", but any defect could be
dangerous. See Figure 2.3.
Broken leaves in a multi-leaf spring or leaves that
have shifted so they might hit a tire or other part. Figure 2.2
Leaking shock absorbers.
Torque rod or arm, u-bolts, spring hangers, or
other axle positioning parts that are cracked,
damaged, or missing.
Air suspension systems that are damaged and/or
leaking. See Figure 2.4.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Warning devices for parked vehicles (for

example, three reflective warning triangles or 6
fusees or 3 liquid burning flares).

Cargo (Trucks). You must make sure the truck is

not overloaded and the cargo is balanced and
secured before each trip. If the cargo contains
hazardous materials, you must inspect for proper
papers and placarding.

2.1.4 – CDL Pre-trip Vehicle Inspection Test

In order to obtain a CDL you will be required to
pass a pre-trip vehicle inspection test. You will be
tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is
safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip
inspection of your vehicle and explain to the
examiner what you would inspect and why. The
following seven-step inspection method should be
useful.

Figure 2.3 2.1.5 – Seven-step Inspection Method

Method of Inspection. You should do a pre-trip
inspection the same way each time so you will
learn all the steps and be less likely to forget
something.

Approaching the Vehicle. Notice general

condition. Look for damage or vehicle leaning to
one side. Look under the vehicle for fresh oil,
coolant, grease, or fuel leaks. Check the area
around the vehicle for hazards to vehicle
movement (people, other vehicles, objects, low-
hanging wires, limbs, etc.).

Vehicle Inspection Guide

Step 1: Vehicle Overview

Figure 2.4
Review Last Vehicle Inspection Report. Drivers
Exhaust System Defects. A broken exhaust
may have to make a vehicle inspection report in
system can let poison fumes into the cab or
writing each day. The motor carrier must repair any
sleeper berth. Look for:
items in the report that affect safety and certify on
Loose, broken, or missing exhaust pipes, the report that repairs were made or were
mufflers, tailpipes, or vertical stacks. unnecessary. You must sign the report only if
defects were noted and certified to be repaired or
Loose, broken, or missing mounting brackets,
not needed to be repaired.
clamps, bolts, or nuts.
Exhaust system parts rubbing against fuel Step 2: Check Engine Compartment
system parts, tires, or other moving parts of
vehicle. Check That the Parking Brakes Are On and/or
Wheels Chocked.
Exhaust system parts that are leaking.
You may have to raise the hood, tilt the cab
Emergency Equipment. Vehicles must be (secure loose things so they don't fall and break
equipped with emergency equipment. Look for: something), or open the engine compartment door.
Check the following:
Fire extinguisher(s).
Engine oil level.
Spare electrical fuses (unless equipped with
circuit breakers).

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Coolant level in radiator; condition of hoses. Check Condition of Controls. Check all of the
following for looseness, sticking, damage, or
Power steering fluid level; hose condition (if so
improper setting:
equipped).
Steering wheel.
Windshield washer fluid level.
Clutch.
Battery fluid level, connections, and tie downs
(battery may be located elsewhere). Accelerator ("gas pedal").
Automatic transmission fluid level (may require Brake controls.
engine to be running). • Foot brake.
• Trailer brake (if vehicle has one).
Check belts for tightness and excessive wear
• Parking brake.
(alternator, water pump, air compressor)--learn
• Retarder controls (if vehicle has them).
how much "give" the belts should have when
adjusted right, and check each one. Transmission controls.
Leaks in the engine compartment (fuel, coolant, Interaxle differential lock (if vehicle has one).
oil, power steering fluid, hydraulic fluid, battery
Horn(s).
fluid).
Windshield wiper/washer.
Cracked, worn electrical wiring insulation.
Lower and secure hood, cab, or engine Lights.
compartment door. • Headlights.
• Dimmer switch.
Step 3: Start Engine and Inspect Inside the Cab • Turn signal.
• Four-way flashers.
Get In and Start Engine • Parking, clearance, identification, marker
switch(es).
Make sure parking brake is on.
Put gearshift in neutral (or "park" if automatic).
Start engine; listen for unusual noises.
If equipped, check the Anti-lock Braking System
(ABS) indicator lights. Light on dash should
come on and then turn off. If the ABS light stays on,
then the system is not working properly. For trailers
only, if the yellow light on the left rear of the trailer
stays on, the ABS is not working properly.

Look at the Gauges

Oil pressure. Should come up to normal within
seconds after engine is started. See Figure 2.5
Air pressure. Pressure should build from 50 to 90
psi within 3 minutes. Build air pressure to
governor cut-out (usually around 120 – 140 psi.
Know your vehicles requirements.
Ammeter and/or voltmeter. Should be in normal
range(s).
Coolant temperature. Should begin gradual rise
to normal operating range. Figure 2.5
Engine oil temperature. Should begin gradual rise
to normal operating range. Check Mirrors and Windshield. Inspect mirrors
and windshield for cracks, dirt, illegal stickers, or
Warning lights and buzzers. Oil, coolant, other obstructions to seeing clearly. Clean and
charging circuit warning, and antilock brake adjust as necessary.
system lights should go out right away.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Check Emergency Equipment Left front suspension.

• Condition of spring, spring hangers,
Check for safety equipment: shackles, u-bolts.
• Spare electrical fuses (unless vehicle has • Shock absorber condition.
circuit breakers).
• Three red reflective triangles, 6 fusees or 3 Left front brake.
liquid burning flares. • Condition of brake drum or disc.
• Properly charged and rated fire extinguisher. • Condition of hoses.
Check for optional items such as:
• Chains (where winter conditions require). Front
• Tire changing equipment. Condition of front axle.
• List of emergency phone numbers
• Accident reporting kit (packet). Condition of steering system.
• No loose, worn, bent, damaged or missing
Check Safety Belt. Check that the safety belt is parts.
securely mounted, adjusts, latches properly and is • Must grab steering mechanism to test for
not ripped or frayed. looseness.
Step 4: Turn Off Engine and Check Lights Condition of windshield.
Make sure the parking brake is set, turn off the • Check for damage and clean if dirty.
engine, and take the key with you. Turn on • Check windshield wiper arms for proper
headlights (low beams) and four-way emergency spring tension.
flashers, and get out of the vehicle. • Check wiper blades for damage, "stiff"
rubber, and securement.
Step 5: Do Walkaround Inspection
Lights and reflectors.
Go to front of vehicle and check that low beams
• Parking, clearance, and identification lights
are on and both of the four-way flashers are clean, operating, and proper color (amber at
working. front).
Push dimmer switch and check that high beams • Reflectors clean and proper color (amber at
work. front).
• Right front turn signal light clean, operating,
Turn off headlights and four-way emergency and proper color (amber or white on signals
flashers. facing forward).
Turn on parking, clearance, side-marker, and
identification lights. Right Side
Turn on right turn signal, and start walk-around Right front: check all items as done on left front.
inspection. Primary and secondary safety cab locks engaged
General (if cab-over-engine design).

Walkaround and inspect. Right fuel tank(s).

• Securely mounted, not damaged, or leaking.
Clean all lights, reflectors, and glass as you go • Fuel crossover line secure.
along. • Tank(s) contain enough fuel.
• Cap(s) on and secure.
Left Front Side
Driver's door glass should be clean.
Condition of visible parts.
Door latches or locks should work properly.
• Rear of engine--not leaking.
Left front wheel. • Transmission--not leaking.
• Condition of wheel and rim--missing, bent, • Exhaust system--secure, not leaking, not
broken studs, clamps, lugs, or any signs of touching wires, fuel, or air lines.
misalignment. • Frame and cross members--no bends or
• Condition of tires--properly inflated, valve cracks.
stem and cap OK, no serious cuts, bulges, • Air lines and electrical wiring--secured
or tread wear. against snagging, rubbing, wearing.
• Use wrench to test rust-streaked lug nuts, • Spare tire carrier or rack not damaged (if so
indicating looseness. equipped).
• Hub oil level OK, no leaks.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

• Spare tire and/or wheel securely mounted in Rear

rack.
• Spare tire and wheel adequate (proper size, Lights and reflectors.
properly inflated). • Rear clearance and identification lights
clean, operating, and proper color (red at
Cargo securement (trucks). rear).
• Cargo properly blocked, braced, tied, • Reflectors clean and proper color (red at
chained, etc. rear).
• Header board adequate, secure (if required). • Taillights clean, operating, and proper color
• Side boards, stakes strong enough, free of (red at rear).
damage, properly set in place (if so • Right rear turn signal operating, and proper
equipped). color (red, yellow, or amber at rear).
• Canvas or tarp (if required) properly secured
to prevent tearing, billowing, or blocking of License plate(s) present, clean, and secured.
mirrors. Splash guards present, not damaged, properly
• If oversize, all required signs (flags, lamps, fastened, not dragging on ground, or rubbing
and reflectors) safely and properly mounted tires.
and all required permits in driver's
possession. Cargo secure (trucks).
• Curbside cargo compartment doors in good Cargo properly blocked, braced, tied, chained,
condition, securely closed, latched/locked etc.
and required security seals in place.
Tailboards up and properly secured.
Right Rear End gates free of damage, properly secured in
Condition of wheels and rims--no missing, bent, stake sockets.
or broken spacers, studs, clamps, or lugs. Canvas or tarp (if required) properly secured to
Condition of tires--properly inflated, valve stems prevent tearing, billowing, or blocking of either
and caps OK, no serious cuts, bulges, tread the rearview mirrors or rear lights.
wear, tires not rubbing each other, and nothing If over-length, or over-width, make sure all signs
stuck between them. and/or additional lights/flags are safely and
Tires same type, e.g., not mixed radial and bias properly mounted and all required permits are in
types. driver's possession.

Tires evenly matched (same sizes). Rear doors securely closed, latched/locked.

Wheel bearing/seals not leaking. Left Side

Suspension. Check all items as done on right side, plus:
• Condition of spring(s), spring hangers, • Battery(ies) (if not mounted in engine
shackles, and u-bolts. compartment).
• Axle secure. • Battery box(es) securely mounted to vehicle.
• Powered axle(s) not leaking lube (gear oil). • Box has secure cover.
• Condition of torque rod arms, bushings. • Battery(ies) secured against movement.
• Condition of shock absorber(s). • Battery(ies) not broken or leaking.
• If retractable axle equipped, check condition • Fluid in battery(ies) at proper level (except
of lift mechanism. If air powered, check for maintenance-free type).
leaks. • Cell caps present and securely tightened
• Condition of air ride components. (except maintenance-free type).
Brakes. • Vents in cell caps free of foreign material
(except maintenance-free type).
• Brake adjustment.
• Condition of brake drum(s) or discs.
Step 6: Check Signal Lights
• Condition of hoses--look for any wear due to
rubbing.
Get In and Turn Off Lights
Lights and reflectors.
Turn off all lights.
• Side-marker lights clean, operating, and
proper color (red at rear, others amber). Turn on stop lights (apply trailer hand brake or
• Side-marker reflectors clean and proper have a helper put on the brake pedal).
color (red at rear, others amber). Turn on left turn signal lights.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

If you find anything unsafe during the pre-trip

Get Out and Check Lights inspection, get it fixed. Federal and state laws
Left front turn signal light clean, operating and forbid operating an unsafe vehicle.
proper color (amber or white on signals facing the
front). 2.1.6 – Inspection During a Trip
Left rear turn signal light and both stop lights
Check Vehicle Operation Regularly
clean, operating, and proper color (red, yellow, or
amber). You should check:
Instruments.
Get In Vehicle
Air pressure gauge (if you have air brakes).
Turn off lights not needed for driving.
Temperature gauges.
Check for all required papers, trip manifests,
permits, etc. Pressure gauges.
Secure all loose articles in cab (they might Ammeter/voltmeter.
interfere with operation of the controls or hit you
Mirrors.
in a crash).
Tires.
Start the engine.
Cargo, cargo covers.
Step 7: Start the Engine and Check
Lights.
Test for Hydraulic Leaks. If the vehicle has Etc.
hydraulic brakes, pump the brake pedal three
times. Then apply firm pressure to the pedal and If you see, hear, smell, or feel anything that might
hold for five seconds. The pedal should not move. mean trouble, check it out.
If it does, there may be a leak or other problem.
Get it fixed before driving. If the vehicle has air Safety Inspection. Drivers of trucks and truck
brakes, do the checks described in Sections 5 and tractors when transporting cargo must inspect the
6 of this manual. securement of the cargo within the first 50 miles of
a trip and every 150 miles or every three hours
Brake System (whichever comes first) after.

Test Parking Brake(s) 2.1.7 – After-trip Inspection and Report

Fasten safety belt You may have to make a written report each day
Set parking brake (power unit only). on the condition of the vehicle(s) you drove. Report
anything affecting safety or possibly leading to
Release trailer parking brake (if applicable). mechanical breakdown.
Place vehicle into a low gear.
Gently pull forward against parking brake to Subsection 2.1
make sure the parking brake holds. Test Your Knowledge
Repeat the same steps for the trailer with trailer
The vehicle inspection report tells the motor carrier
parking brake set and power unit parking brakes
released (if applicable). about problems that may need fixing. Keep a copy
of your report in the vehicle for one day. That way,
If it doesn't hold vehicle, it is faulty; get it fixed. the next driver can learn about any problems you
have found.
Test Service Brake Stopping Action 1. What is the most important reason for
Go about five miles per hour. doing a vehicle inspection?
2. What things should you check during a
Push brake pedal firmly trip?
"Pulling" to one side or the other can mean brake 3. Name some key steering system parts.
trouble. 4. Name some suspension system defects.
5. What three kinds of emergency equipment
Any unusual brake pedal "feel" or delayed must you have?
stopping action can mean trouble. 6. What is the minimum tread depth for front
tires? For other tires?

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7. Name some things you should check on wheel. If you hit a curb or a pothole (chuckhole),
the front of your vehicle during the walk the wheel could pull away from your hands unless
around inspection. you have a firm hold.
8. What should wheel bearing seals be
checked for? 2.2.3 – Stopping
9. How many red reflective triangles should
you carry? Push the brake pedal down gradually. The amount
10. How do you test hydraulic brakes for of brake pressure you need to stop the vehicle will
leaks? depend on the speed of the vehicle and how
11. Why put the starter switch key in your quickly you need to stop. Control the pressure so
pocket during the pre-trip inspection? the vehicle comes to a smooth, safe stop. If you
have a manual transmission, push the clutch in
These questions may be on your test. If you can’t when the engine is close to idle.
answer them all, re-read subsection 2.1.
2.2.4 – Backing Safely

2.2 – Basic Control of Your Vehicle Because you cannot see everything behind your
vehicle, backing is always dangerous. Avoid
To drive a vehicle safely, you must be able to backing whenever you can. When you park, try to
control its speed and direction. Safe operation of a park so you will be able to pull forward when you
commercial vehicle requires skill in: leave. When you have to back, here are a few
simple safety rules:
Accelerating.
Start in the proper position.
Steering.
Look at your path.
Stopping.
Use mirrors on both sides.
Backing safely.
Back slowly.
Fasten your seatbelt when on the road. Apply the Back and turn toward the driver's side whenever
parking brake when you leave your vehicle. possible.

2.2.1 – Accelerating Use a helper whenever possible.

These rules are discussed in turn below.
Don't roll back when you start. You may hit
someone behind you. If you have a manual Start in the Proper Position. Put the vehicle in
transmission vehicle, partly engage the clutch the best position to allow you to back safely. This
before you take your right foot off the brake. Put on position will depend on the type of backing to be
the parking brake whenever necessary to keep done.
from rolling back. Release the parking brake only
when you have applied enough engine power to Look at Your Path. Look at your line of travel
keep from rolling back. On a tractor-trailer before you begin. Get out and walk around the
equipped with a trailer brake hand valve, the hand vehicle. Check your clearance to the sides and
valve can be applied to keep from rolling back. overhead, in and near the path your vehicle will
Speed up smoothly and gradually so the vehicle take.
does not jerk. Rough acceleration can cause
mechanical damage. When pulling a trailer, rough Use Mirrors on Both Sides. Check the outside
acceleration can damage the coupling. mirrors on both sides frequently. Get out of the
vehicle and check your path if you are unsure.
Speed up very gradually when traction is poor, as
in rain or snow. If you use too much power, the Back Slowly. Always back as slowly as possible.
drive wheels may spin. You could lose control. If Use the lowest reverse gear. That way you can
the drive wheels begin to spin, take your foot off more easily correct any steering errors. You also
the accelerator. can stop quickly if necessary.

Back and Turn Toward the Driver's Side. Back

2.2.2 – Steering to the driver's side so you can see better. Backing
toward the right side is very dangerous because
Hold the steering wheel firmly with both hands.
you can't see as well. If you back and turn toward
Your hands should be on opposite sides of the

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the driver's side, you can watch the rear of your Use Road Speed (mph). Learn what speeds each
vehicle by looking out the side window. Use driver- gear is good for. Then, by using the speedometer,
side backing--even if it means going around the you'll know when to shift up.
block to put your vehicle in this position. The
With either method, you may learn to use engine
added safety is worth it.
sounds to know when to shift.
Use a Helper. Use a helper when you can. There
Basic Procedures for Shifting Down
are blind spots you can't see. That's why a helper
is important. The helper should stand near the Release accelerator, push in clutch, and shift to
back of your vehicle where you can see the helper. neutral at the same time.
Before you begin backing, work out a set of hand
Release clutch.
signals that you both understand. Agree on a
signal for "stop." Press accelerator, increase engine and gear
speed to the rpm required in the lower gear.
Push in clutch and shift to lower gear at the same
2.3 – Shifting Gears time.
Correct shifting of gears is important. If you can't Release clutch and press accelerator at the same
get your vehicle into the right gear while driving, time.
you will have less control.
Downshifting, like upshifting, requires knowing
when to shift. Use either the tachometer or the
2.3.1 – Manual Transmissions speedometer and downshift at the right rpm or
road speed.
Basic Method for Shifting Up. Most heavy
vehicles with manual transmissions require double Special conditions where you should downshift
clutching to change gears. This is the basic are:
method:
Release accelerator, push in clutch and shift to Before Starting Down a Hill. Slow down and shift
neutral at the same time. down to a speed that you can control without using
the brakes hard. Otherwise the brakes can
Release clutch. overheat and lose their braking power.
Let engine and gears slow down to the rpm
required for the next gear (this takes practice). Downshift before starting down the hill. Make sure
you are in a low enough gear, usually lower than
Push in clutch and shift to the higher gear at the the gear required to climb the same hill.
same time.
Release clutch and press accelerator at the same Before Entering a Curve. Slow down to a safe
time. speed, and downshift to the right gear before
entering the curve. This lets you use some power
Shifting gears using double clutching requires through the curve to help the vehicle be more
practice. If you remain too long in neutral, you stable while turning. It also allows you to speed up
may have difficulty putting the vehicle into the next as soon as you are out of the curve.
gear. If so, don't try to force it. Return to neutral,
release clutch, increase engine speed to match 2.3.2 – Multi-speed Rear Axles and
road speed, and try again. Auxiliary Transmissions
Knowing When to Shift Up. There are two ways
of knowing when to shift: Multi-speed rear axles and auxiliary transmissions
are used on many vehicles to provide extra gears.
Use Engine Speed (rpm). Study the driver's You usually control them by a selector knob or
manual for your vehicle and learn the operating switch on the gearshift lever of the main
rpm range. Watch your tachometer, and shift up transmission. There are many different shift
when your engine reaches the top of the range. patterns. Learn the right way to shift gears in the
(Some newer vehicles use "progressive" shifting: vehicle you will drive.
the rpm at which you shift becomes higher as you
move up in the gears. Find out what's right for the 2.3.3 – Automatic Transmissions
vehicle you will operate.)
Some vehicles have automatic transmissions. You
can select a low range to get greater engine

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braking when going down grades. The lower

ranges prevent the transmission from shifting up Subsections 2.2 and 2.3
beyond the selected gear (unless the governor rpm
Test Your Knowledge
is exceeded). It is very important to use this
braking effect when going down grades. 1. Why should you back toward the driver's
side?
2.3.4 – Retarders 2. If stopped on a hill, how can you start
moving without rolling back?
Some vehicles have "retarders." Retarders help 3. When backing, why is it important to use a
slow a vehicle, reducing the need for using your helper?
brakes. They reduce brake wear and give you 4. What's the most important hand signal that
another way to slow down. There are four basic you and the helper should agree on?
types of retarders (exhaust, engine, hydraulic, and 5. What are the two special conditions where
electric). All retarders can be turned on or off by you should downshift?
the driver. On some vehicles the retarding power 6. When should you downshift automatic
can be adjusted. When turned "on," retarders apply transmissions?
their braking power (to the drive wheels only) 7. Retarders keep you from skidding when
whenever you let up on the accelerator pedal all the road is slippery. True or False?
the way. 8. What are the two ways to know when to
shift?
Because these devices can be noisy, be sure you
know where their use is permitted. These questions may be on the test. If you can't
answer them all, re-read subsections 2.2 and 2.3.
Caution. When your drive wheels have poor
traction, the retarder may cause them to skid.
Therefore, you should turn the retarder off
whenever the road is wet, icy, or snow covered. 2.4 – Seeing
To be a safe driver you need to know what's going
on all around your vehicle. Not looking properly is
a major cause of accidents.

2.4.1 – Seeing Ahead

All drivers look ahead; but many don't look far
enough ahead.

Importance of Looking Far Enough Ahead.

Because stopping or changing lanes can take a lot
of distance, knowing what the traffic is doing on all
sides of you is very important. You need to look
well ahead to make sure you have room to make
these moves safely.
How Far Ahead to Look. Most good drivers look
at least 12 to 15 seconds ahead. That means
looking ahead the distance you will travel in 12 to
15 seconds. At lower speeds, that's about one
block. At highway speeds it's about a quarter of a
mile. If you're not looking that far ahead, you may
have to stop too quickly or make quick lane
changes. Looking 12 to 15 seconds ahead doesn't
mean not paying attention to things that are closer.
Good drivers shift their attention back and forth,
near and far. Figure 2.6 illustrates how far to look
ahead.

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Special Situations. Special situations require

more than regular mirror checks. These are lane
changes, turns, merges, and tight maneuvers.

Lane Changes. You need to check your mirrors to

make sure no one is alongside you or about to
pass you. Check your mirrors:
Before you change lanes to make sure there is
enough room.
After you have signaled, to check that no one has
moved into your blind spot.
Right after you start the lane change, to double-
check that your path is clear.
Figure 2.6
After you complete the lane change.
Look for Traffic. Look for vehicles coming onto
Turns. In turns, check your mirrors to make sure
the highway, into your lane, or turning. Watch for
the rear of your vehicle will not hit anything.
brake lights from slowing vehicles. By seeing these
things far enough ahead, you can change your
speed, or change lanes if necessary to avoid a Merges. When merging, use your mirrors to make
sure the gap in traffic is large enough for you to
problem. If a traffic light has been green for a long
enter safely.
time it will probably change before you get there.
Start slowing down and be ready to stop. Tight Maneuvers. Any time you are driving in
close quarters, check your mirrors often. Make
sure you have enough clearance.
2.4.2 – Seeing to the Sides and Rear How to Use Mirrors. Use mirrors correctly by
It's important to know what's going on behind and checking them quickly and understanding what you
to the sides. Check your mirrors regularly. Check see.
more often in special situations.
When you use your mirrors while driving on the
Mirror Adjustment. Mirror adjustment should be road, check quickly. Look back and forth between
checked prior to the start of any trip and can only the mirrors and the road ahead. Don't focus on
be checked accurately when the trailer(s) are the mirrors for too long. Otherwise, you will travel
straight. You should check and adjust each mirror quite a distance without knowing what's
to show some part of the vehicle. This will give you happening ahead.
a reference point for judging the position of the Many large vehicles have curved (convex,
other images. "fisheye," "spot," "bugeye") mirrors that show a
wider area than flat mirrors. This is often helpful.
Regular Checks. You need to make regular But everything appears smaller in a convex
checks of your mirrors to be aware of traffic and to mirror than it would if you were looking at it
check your vehicle. directly. Things also seem farther away than they
really are. It's important to realize this and to
Traffic. Check your mirrors for vehicles on either allow for it. Figure 2.7 shows the field of vision
side and in back of you. In an emergency, you may using a convex mirror.
need to know whether you can make a quick lane
change. Use your mirrors to spot overtaking
vehicles. There are "blind spots" that your mirrors
cannot show you. Check your mirrors regularly to
know where other vehicles are around you, and to
see if they move into your blind spots.

Check Your Vehicle. Use the mirrors to keep an

eye on your tires. It's one way to spot a tire fire. If
you're carrying open cargo, you can use the
mirrors to check it. Look for loose straps, ropes, or
chains. Watch for a flapping or ballooning tarp.

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lights -- should warn following drivers. Use the

four-way emergency flashers for times when you
are driving very slowly or are stopped. Warn other
drivers in any of the following situations:
Trouble Ahead. The size of your vehicle may
make it hard for drivers behind you to see
hazards ahead. If you see a hazard that will
require slowing down, warn the drivers behind by
flashing your brake lights.
Tight Turns. Most car drivers don't know how
slowly you have to go to make a tight turn in a
large vehicle. Give drivers behind you warning by
braking early and slowing gradually.
Stopping on the Road. Truck and bus drivers
sometimes stop in the roadway to unload cargo
or passengers, or to stop at a railroad crossing.
Warn following drivers by flashing your brake
lights. Don't stop suddenly.
Driving Slowly. Drivers often do not realize how
fast they are catching up to a slow vehicle until
they are very close. If you must drive slowly, alert
following drivers by turning on your emergency
flashers if it is legal. (Laws regarding the use of
flashers differ from one state to another. Check
Figure 2.7 the laws of the states where you will drive.)

Don't Direct Traffic. Some drivers try to help out

2.5 – Communicating others by signaling when it is safe to pass. You
should not do this. You could cause an accident.
2.5.1 – Signal Your Intentions You could be blamed and it could cost you many
thousands of dollars.
Other drivers can't know what you are going to do
until you tell them.
2.5.2 – Communicating Your Presence
Signaling what you intend to do is important for
safety. Here are some general rules for signaling. Other drivers may not notice your vehicle even
Turns. There are three good rules for using turn when it's in plain sight. To help prevent accidents,
signals: let them know you're there.
Signal early. Signal well before you turn. It is the When Passing. Whenever you are about to pass
best way to keep others from trying to pass you. a vehicle, pedestrian, or bicyclist, assume they
Signal continuously. You need both hands on the don't see you. They could suddenly move in front
wheel to turn safely. Don't cancel the signal until of you. When it is legal, tap the horn lightly or, at
you have completed the turn. night, flash your lights from low to high beam and
back. And, drive carefully enough to avoid a crash
Cancel your signal. Don't forget to turn off your even if they don't see or hear you.
turn signal after you've turned (if you don't have
self-canceling signals). When It's Hard to See. At dawn, dusk, in rain, or
snow, you need to make yourself easier to see. If
Lane Changes. Put your turn signal on before you are having trouble seeing other vehicles, other
changing lanes. Change lanes slowly and drivers will have trouble seeing you. Turn on your
smoothly. That way a driver you didn't see may lights. Use the headlights, not just the identification
have a chance to honk his/her horn, or avoid your or clearance lights. Use the low beams; high
vehicle. beams can bother people in the daytime as well as
at night.
Slowing Down. Warn drivers behind you when
you see you'll need to slow down. A few light taps When Parked at the Side of the Road. When you
on the brake pedal -- enough to flash the brake pull off the road and stop, be sure to turn on the

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four-way emergency flashers. This is important at

night. Don't trust the taillights to give warning.
Drivers have crashed into the rear of a parked
vehicle because they thought it was moving
normally.

If you must stop on a road or the shoulder of any

road, you must put out your emergency warning
devices within ten minutes. Place your warning
devices at the following locations:

If you must stop on or by a one-way or divided

highway, place warning devices 10 feet, 100
feet, and 200 feet toward the approaching traffic.
See Figure 2.8.

If you stop on a two-lane road carrying traffic in

both directions or on an undivided highway,
place warning devices within 10 feet of the front
or rear corners to mark the location of the
vehicle and 100 feet behind and ahead of the
vehicle, on the shoulder or in the lane you Figure 2.9
stopped in. See Figure 2.9.
Back beyond any hill, curve, or other obstruction
that prevents other drivers from seeing the vehicle
within 500 feet. If line of sight view is obstructed
due to hill or curve, move the rear-most triangle to
a point back down the road so warning is provided.
See Figure 2.10.

Figure 2.8

Figure 2.10

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

When putting out the triangles, hold them between

yourself and the oncoming traffic for your own 1 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 1 0  
safety. (So other drivers can see you.)
 
1 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 1 0
Use Your Horn When Needed. Your horn can let
others know you're there. It can help to avoid a  
crash. Use your horn when needed. However, it
15 72’
can startle others and could be dangerous when  
39’ 16’17’
used unnecessarily.
25 140’ Total Dist.
65’ 28’ 47’  
35 222’ Total Stopping Distance
2.6 – Controlling Speed 91’ 39’ 92’
45 319’ Total Stopping Distance
Driving too fast is a major cause of fatal crashes. 117’ 50’ 152’
You must adjust your speed depending on driving 55 419’ Total Stopping Distance
conditions. These include traction, curves, visibility, 142’ 61’ 216’
traffic and hills. MPH Perception Distance Reaction Braking Distance
Distance

2.6.1 – Stopping Distance Figure 2.11

The Effect of Speed on Stopping Distance.
Perception Distance + Reaction Distance +
Braking Distance = Total Stopping Distance The faster you drive, the greater the impact or
striking power of your vehicle. When you double
Perception distance. The distance your vehicle your speed from 20 to 40 mph the impact is 4
travels, in ideal conditions; from the time your eyes times greater. The braking distance is also 4 times
see a hazard until your brain recognizes it. Keep longer. Triple the speed from 20 to 60 mph and
in mind certain mental and physical conditions can the impact and braking distance is 9 times greater.
affect your perception distance. It can be affected At 60 mph, your stopping distance is greater than
greatly depending on visibility and the hazard itself. the length of a football field. Increase the speed to
The average perception time for an alert driver is 80 mph and the impact and braking distance are
1¾ seconds. At 55 mph this accounts for 142 feet 16 times greater than at 20 mph. High speeds
traveled. greatly increase the severity of crashes and
stopping distances. By slowing down, you can
Reaction distance. The distance you will reduce braking distance.
continue to travel, in ideal conditions; before you
physically hit the brakes, in response to a hazard The Effect of Vehicle Weight on Stopping
seen ahead. The average driver has a reaction Distance. The heavier the vehicle, the more work
time of ¾ second to 1 second. At 55 mph this the brakes must do to stop it, and the more heat
accounts for 61 feet traveled. they absorb. But the brakes, tires, springs, and
Braking distance. The distance your vehicle will shock absorbers on heavy vehicles are designed
travel, in ideal conditions; while you are braking. to work best when the vehicle is fully loaded.
At 55 mph on dry pavement with good brakes, it Empty trucks require greater stopping distances
can take about 216 feet. because an empty vehicle has less traction.

Total stopping distance. The total minimum 2.6.2 – Matching Speed to the Road
distance your vehicle has traveled, in ideal Surface
conditions; with everything considered, including
perception distance, reaction distance and braking You can't steer or brake a vehicle unless you have
distance, until you can bring your vehicle to a traction. Traction is friction between the tires and
complete stop. At 55 mph, your vehicle will travel the road. There are some road conditions that
a minimum of 419 feet. See Figure 2.11. reduce traction and call for lower speeds.
Slippery Surfaces. It will take longer to stop, and
it will be harder to turn without skidding, when the
road is slippery. Wet roads can double stopping
distance. You must drive slower to be able to stop
in the same distance as on a dry road. Reduce
speed by about one-third (e.g., slow from 55 to
about 35 mph) on a wet road. On packed snow,

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reduce speed by a half, or more. If the surface is 2.6.3 – Speed and Curves
icy, reduce speed to a crawl and stop driving as
soon as you can safely do so. Drivers must adjust their speed for curves in the
Identifying Slippery Surfaces. Sometimes it's road. If you take a curve too fast, two things can
hard to know if the road is slippery. Here are some happen. The tires can lose their traction and
continue straight ahead, so you skid off the road.
signs of slippery roads:
Or, the tires may keep their traction and the vehicle
Shaded Areas. Shady parts of the road will rolls over. Tests have shown that trucks with a high
remain icy and slippery long after open areas center of gravity can roll over at the posted speed
have melted. limit for a curve.
Bridges. When the temperature drops, bridges
Slow to a safe speed before you enter a curve.
will freeze before the road will. Be especially
Braking in a curve is dangerous because it is
careful when the temperature is close to 32
easier to lock the wheels and cause a skid. Slow
degrees Fahrenheit.
down as needed. Don't ever exceed the posted
Melting Ice. Slight melting will make ice wet. Wet speed limit for the curve. Be in a gear that will let
ice is much more slippery than ice that is not wet. you accelerate slightly in the curve. This will help
you keep control.
Black Ice. Black ice is a thin layer that is clear
enough that you can see the road underneath it.
It makes the road look wet. Any time the 2.6.4 – Speed and Distance Ahead
temperature is below freezing and the road looks
wet, watch out for black ice. You should always be able to stop within the
distance you can see ahead. Fog, rain, or other
Vehicle Icing. An easy way to check for ice is to conditions may require that you slow down to be
open the window and feel the front of the mirror, able to stop in the distance you can see. At night,
mirror support, or antenna. If there's ice on these, you can't see as far with low beams as you can
the road surface is probably starting to ice up. with high beams. When you must use low beams,
Just After Rain Begins. Right after it starts to slow down.
rain, the water mixes with oil left on the road by
vehicles. This makes the road very slippery. If the 2.6.5 – Speed and Traffic Flow
rain continues, it will wash the oil away.
When you're driving in heavy traffic, the safest
Hydroplaning. In some weather, water or slush speed is the speed of other vehicles. Vehicles
collects on the road. When this happens, your going the same direction at the same speed are
vehicle can hydroplane. It's like water skiing--the not likely to run into one another. In many states,
tires lose their contact with the road and have speed limits are lower for trucks and buses than for
little or no traction. You may not be able to steer cars. It can vary as much as 15 mph. Use extra
or brake. You can regain control by releasing the caution when you change lanes or pass on these
accelerator and pushing in the clutch. This will roadways. Drive at the speed of the traffic, if you
slow your vehicle and let the wheels turn freely. If can without going at an illegal or unsafe speed.
the vehicle is hydroplaning, do not use the brakes Keep a safe following distance.
to slow down. If the drive wheels start to skid,
push in the clutch to let them turn freely. The main reason drivers exceed speed limits is to
save time. But, anyone trying to drive faster than
It does not take a lot of water to cause the speed of traffic will not be able to save much
hydroplaning. Hydroplaning can occur at speeds time. The risks involved are not worth it. If you go
as low as 30 mph if there is a lot of water. faster than the speed of other traffic, you'll have to
Hydroplaning is more likely if tire pressure is low, keep passing other vehicles. This increases the
or the tread is worn. (The grooves in a tire carry chance of a crash, and it is more tiring. Fatigue
away the water; if they aren't deep, they don't work increases the chance of a crash. Going with the
well.) flow of traffic is safer and easier.
Road surfaces where water can collect can create
conditions that cause a vehicle to hydroplane.
Watch for clear reflections, tire splashes, and
raindrops on the road. These are indications of
standing water.

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2.6.6 – Speed on Downgrades 6. What three things add up to total stopping

distance?
Your vehicle's speed will increase on downgrades 7. If you go twice as fast, will your stopping
because of gravity. Your most important objective distance increase by two or four times?
is to select and maintain a speed that is not too 8. Empty trucks have the best braking. True
fast for the: or False?
Total weight of the vehicle and cargo. 9. What is hydroplaning?
10. What is "black ice”?
Length of the grade.
Steepness of the grade. These questions may be on the test. If you can't
answer them all, re-read subsections 2.4, 2.5, and
Road conditions. 2.6.
Weather.

If a speed limit is posted, or there is a sign

indicating "Maximum Safe Speed," never exceed
the speed shown. Also, look for and heed warning 2.7 – Managing Space
signs indicating the length and steepness of the
grade. You must use the braking effect of the To be a safe driver, you need space all around
engine as the principal way of controlling your your vehicle. When things go wrong, space gives
speed on downgrades. The braking effect of the you time to think and to take action.
engine is greatest when it is near the governed
rpms and the transmission is in the lower gears. To have space available when something goes
Save your brakes so you will be able to slow or wrong, you need to manage space. While this is
stop as required by road and traffic conditions. true for all drivers, it is very important for large
Shift your transmission to a low gear before vehicles. They take up more space and they
starting down the grade and use the proper require more space for stopping and turning.
braking techniques. Please read carefully the
section on going down long, steep downgrades 2.7.1 – Space Ahead
safely in "Mountain Driving."
Of all the space around your vehicle, it is the area
2.6.7 – Roadway Work Zones ahead of the vehicle--the space you're driving into -
-that is most important.
Speeding traffic is the number one cause of injury
and death in roadway work zones. Observe the The Need for Space Ahead. You need space
posted speed limits at all times when approaching ahead in case you must suddenly stop. According
and driving through a work zone. Watch your to accident reports, the vehicle that trucks and
speedometer, and don’t allow your speed to creep buses most often run into is the one in front of
up as you drive through long sections of road them. The most frequent cause is following too
construction. Decrease your speed for adverse closely. Remember, if the vehicle ahead of you is
weather or road conditions. Decrease your speed smaller than yours, it can probably stop faster than
even further when a worker is close to the you can. You may crash if you are following too
roadway. closely.

How Much Space? How much space should you

keep in front of you? One good rule says you need
Subsections 2.4, 2.5, and 2.6 at least one second for each 10 feet of vehicle
Test Your Knowledge length at speeds below 40 mph. At greater speeds,
you must add 1 second for safety. For example, if
1. How far ahead does the manual say you you are driving a 40-foot vehicle, you should leave
should look? 4 seconds between you and the vehicle ahead. In
2. What are two main things to look for a 60-foot rig, you'll need 6 seconds. Over 40 mph,
ahead? you'd need 5 seconds for a 40-foot vehicle and 7
3. What's your most important way to see the seconds for a 60-foot vehicle. See Figure 2.12.
sides and rear of your vehicle?
4. What does "communicating" mean in safe To know how much space you have, wait until the
driving? vehicle ahead passes a shadow on the road, a
5. Where should your reflectors be placed pavement marking, or some other clear landmark.
when stopped on a divided highway? Then count off the seconds like this: "one

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thousand- and-one, one thousand-and-two" and so not pass another slow vehicle unless you can get
on, until you reach the same spot. Compare your around quickly and safely.
count with the rule of one second for every ten feet
of length. Dealing with Tailgaters Safely. In a large vehicle,
it's often hard to see whether a vehicle is close
If you are driving a 40-foot truck and only counted behind you. You may be tailgated:
up to 2 seconds, you're too close. Drop back a little
When you are traveling slowly. Drivers trapped
and count again until you have 4 seconds of
behind slow vehicles often follow closely.
following distance (or 5 seconds, if you're going
over 40 mph). After a little practice, you will know In bad weather. Many car drivers follow large
how far back you should be. Remember to add 1 vehicles closely during bad weather, especially
second for speeds above 40 mph. Also remember when it is hard to see the road ahead.
that when the road is slippery, you need much
more space to stop. If you find yourself being tailgated, here are some
things you can do to reduce the chances of a
crash.
Avoid quick changes. If you have to slow down or
turn, signal early, and reduce speed very
gradually.
Increase your following distance. Opening up
room in front of you will help you to avoid having
to make sudden speed or direction changes. It
also makes it easier for the tailgater to get around
you.
Don't speed up. It's safer to be tailgated at a low
speed than a high speed.
Avoid tricks. Don't turn on your taillights or flash
your brake lights. Follow the suggestions above.

2.7.3 – Space to the Sides

Commercial vehicles are often wide and take up

most of a lane. Safe drivers will manage what little
space they have. You can do this by keeping your
vehicle centered in your lane, and avoid driving
alongside others.

Staying Centered in a Lane. You need to keep

your vehicle centered in the lane to keep safe
clearance on either side. If your vehicle is wide,
you have little room to spare.

Traveling Next to Others. There are two dangers

Figure 2.12 in traveling alongside other vehicles:
2.7.2 – Space Behind Another driver may change lanes suddenly and
turn into you.
You can't stop others from following you too You may be trapped when you need to change
closely. But there are things you can do to make it lanes.
safer.
Find an open spot where you aren't near other
Stay to the Right. Heavy vehicles are often traffic. When traffic is heavy, it may be hard to find
tailgated when they can't keep up with the speed of an open spot. If you must travel near other
traffic. This often happens when you're going vehicles, try to keep as much space as possible
uphill. If a heavy load is slowing you down, stay in between you and them. Also, drop back or pull
the right lane if you can. Going uphill, you should forward so that you are sure the other driver can
see you.

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Right Turns. Here are some rules to help prevent

Strong Winds. Strong winds make it difficult to right-turn crashes:
stay in your lane. The problem is usually worse for
Turn slowly to give yourself and others more time
lighter vehicles. This problem can be especially
to avoid problems.
bad coming out of tunnels. Don't drive alongside
others if you can avoid it. If you are driving a truck or bus that cannot make
the right turn without swinging into another lane,
2.7.4 – Space Overhead turn wide as you complete the turn. Keep the rear
of your vehicle close to the curb. This will stop
Hitting overhead objects is a danger. Make sure other drivers from passing you on the right.
you always have overhead clearance. Don't turn wide to the left as you start the turn. A
Don't assume that the heights posted at bridges following driver may think you are turning left and
and overpasses are correct. Re-paving or packed try to pass you on the right. You may crash into
snow may have reduced the clearances since the the other vehicle as you complete your turn.
heights were posted. If you must cross into the oncoming lane to make
The weight of a cargo van changes its height. An a turn, watch out for vehicles coming toward you.
empty van is higher than a loaded one. That you Give them room to go by or to stop. However,
got under a bridge when you were loaded does don't back up for them, because you might hit
not mean that you can do it when you are empty. someone behind you. See Figure 2.13.
If you doubt you have safe space to pass under
an object, go slowly. If you aren't sure you can
make it, take another route. Warnings are often
posted on low bridges or underpasses, but
sometimes they are not.
Some roads can cause a vehicle to tilt. There can
be a problem clearing objects along the edge of
the road, such as signs, trees, or bridge supports.
Where this is a problem, drive a little closer to the
center of the road.
Before you back into an area, get out and check
for overhanging objects such as trees, branches,
or electric wires. It's easy to miss seeing them
while you are backing. (Also check for other
hazards at the same time.)
Figure 2.13
2.7.5 – Space Below
Left Turns. On a left turn, make sure you have
Many drivers forget about the space under their reached the center of the intersection before you
vehicles. That space can be very small when a start the left turn. If you turn too soon, the left side
vehicle is heavily loaded. This is often a problem of your vehicle may hit another vehicle because of
on dirt roads and in unpaved yards. Don't take a offtracking.
chance on getting hung up. Drainage channels
across roads can cause the ends of some vehicles If there are two turning lanes, always take the right
to drag. Cross such depressions carefully. turn lane. Don't start in the inside lane because
you may have to swing right to make the turn.
Railroad tracks can also cause problems, Drivers on your left can be more readily seen. See
particularly when pulling trailers with a low Figure 2.14.
underneath clearance. Don’t take a chance on
getting hung up halfway across.
2.7.6 – Space for Turns
The space around a truck or bus is important in
turns. Because of wide turning and offtracking,
large vehicles can hit other vehicles or objects
during turns.

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you might make a lane change or slow down to

prevent a crash if the car suddenly cuts in front of
you. Seeing this hazard gives you time to check
your mirrors and signal a lane change. Being
prepared reduces the danger. A driver who did not
see the hazard until the slow car pulled back on
the highway in front of him would have to do
something very suddenly. Sudden braking or a
quick lane change is much more likely to lead to a
crash.

Learning to See Hazards. There are often clues

that will help you see hazards. The more you drive,
the better you can learn to see hazards. This
section will talk about hazards that you should be
aware of.

2.8.2 – Hazardous Roads

Slow down and be very careful if you see any of

Figure 2.14 the following road hazards.

Work Zones. When people are working on the

2.7.7 – Space Needed to Cross or Enter road, it is a hazard. There may be narrower lanes,
Traffic sharp turns, or uneven surfaces. Other drivers are
often distracted and drive unsafely. Workers and
Be aware of the size and weight of your vehicle construction vehicles may get in the way. Drive
when you cross or enter traffic. Here are some slowly and carefully near work zones. Use your
important things to keep in mind. four-way flashers or brake lights to warn drivers
behind you.
Because of slow acceleration and the space
large vehicles require, you may need a much Drop Off. Sometimes the pavement drops off
larger gap to enter traffic than you would in a car. sharply near the edge of the road. Driving too near
Acceleration varies with the load. Allow more the edge can tilt your vehicle toward the side of the
room if your vehicle is heavily loaded. road. This can cause the top of your vehicle to hit
roadside objects (signs, tree limbs). Also, it can be
Before you start across a road, make sure you hard to steer as you cross the drop off, going off
can get all the way across before traffic reaches the road, or coming back on.
you.
Foreign Objects. Things that have fallen on the
road can be hazards. They can be a danger to
2.8 – Seeing Hazards your tires and wheel rims. They can damage
electrical and brake lines. They can be caught
2.8.1 – Importance of Seeing Hazards between dual tires and cause severe damage.
Some obstacles that appear to be harmless can be
What Is a Hazard? A hazard is any road condition very dangerous. For example, cardboard boxes
or other road user (driver, bicyclist, pedestrian) that may be empty, but they may also contain some
is a possible danger. For example, a car in front of solid or heavy material capable of causing
you is headed toward the freeway exit, but his damage. The same is true of paper and cloth
brake lights come on and he begins braking hard. sacks. It is important to remain alert for objects of
This could mean that the driver is uncertain about all sorts, so you can see them early enough to
taking the off ramp. He might suddenly return to avoid them without making sudden, unsafe moves.
the highway. This car is a hazard. If the driver of
the car cuts in front of you, it is no longer just a Off Ramps/On Ramps. Freeway and turnpike
hazard; it is an emergency. exits can be particularly dangerous for commercial
vehicles. Off ramps and on ramps often have
Seeing Hazards Lets You Be Prepared. You will speed limit signs posted. Remember, these speeds
have more time to act if you see hazards before may be safe for automobiles, but may not be safe
they become emergencies. In the example above, for larger vehicles or heavily loaded vehicles. Exits

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that go downhill and turn at the same time can be

especially dangerous. The downgrade makes it Distractions. People who are distracted are
difficult to reduce speed. Braking and turning at the hazards. Watch for where they are looking. If they
same time can be a dangerous practice. Make are looking elsewhere, they can't see you. But be
sure you are going slowly enough before you get alert even when they are looking at you. They may
on the curved part of an off ramp or on ramp. believe that they have the right of way.

2.8.3 – Drivers Who Are Hazards Children. Children tend to act quickly without
checking traffic. Children playing with one another
In order to protect yourself and others, you must may not look for traffic and are a serious hazard.
know when other drivers may do something
hazardous. Some clues to this type of hazard are Talkers. Drivers or pedestrians talking to one
discussed below. another may not be paying close attention to the
traffic.
Blocked Vision. People who can't see others are
a very dangerous hazard. Be alert for drivers Workers. People working on or near the roadway
whose vision is blocked. Vans, loaded station are a hazard clue. The work creates a distraction
wagons, and cars with the rear window blocked are for other drivers and the workers themselves may
examples. Rental trucks should be watched not see you.
carefully. Their drivers are often not used to the
limited vision they have to the sides and rear of the Ice Cream Trucks. Someone selling ice cream is
truck. In winter, vehicles with frosted, ice-covered, a hazard clue. Children may be nearby and may
or snow-covered windows are hazards. not see you.

Vehicles may be partly hidden by blind Disabled Vehicles. Drivers changing a tire or
intersections or alleys. If you only can see the rear fixing an engine often do not pay attention to the
or front end of a vehicle but not the driver, then he danger that roadway traffic is to them. They are
or she can't see you. Be alert because he/she may often careless. Jacked up wheels or raised hoods
back out or enter into your lane. Always be are hazard clues.
prepared to stop.
Accidents. Accidents are particularly hazardous.
Delivery Trucks Can Present a Hazard. People involved in the accident may not look for
Packages or vehicle doors often block the driver’s traffic. Passing drivers tend to look at the accident.
vision. Drivers of step vans, postal vehicles, and People often run across the road without looking.
local delivery vehicles often are in a hurry and may Vehicles may slow or stop suddenly.
suddenly step out of their vehicle or drive their
vehicle into the traffic lane. Shoppers. People in and around shopping areas
are often not watching traffic because they are
Parked Vehicles Can Be Hazards, especially looking for stores or looking into store windows.
when people start to get out of them. Or, they may
suddenly start up and drive into your way. Watch Confused Drivers. Confused drivers often change
for movement inside the vehicle or movement of direction suddenly or stop without warning.
the vehicle itself that shows people are inside. Confusion is common near freeway or turnpike
Watch for brake lights or backup lights, exhaust, interchanges and major intersections. Tourists
and other clues that a driver is about to move. unfamiliar with the area can be very hazardous.
Clues to tourists include car-top luggage and out-
Be careful of a stopped bus. Passengers may of-state license plates. Unexpected actions
cross in front of or behind the bus, and they often (stopping in the middle of a block, changing lanes
can't see you. for no apparent reason, backup lights suddenly
going on) are clues to confusion. Hesitation is
Pedestrians and Bicyclists Can Also Be another clue, including driving very slowly, using
Hazards. Walkers, joggers, and bicyclists may be brakes often, or stopping in the middle of an
on the road with their back to the traffic, so they intersection. You may also see drivers who are
can't see you. Sometimes they wear portable looking at street signs, maps, and house numbers.
stereos with headsets, so they can't hear you These drivers may not be paying attention to you.
either. This can be dangerous. On rainy days,
pedestrians may not see you because of hats or Slow Drivers. Motorists who fail to maintain
umbrellas. They may be hurrying to get out of the normal speed are hazards. Seeing slow moving
rain and may not pay attention to the traffic. vehicles early can prevent a crash. Some vehicles,

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by their nature, are slow and seeing them is a (such as the end of a lane, forcing a move to
h a z a r d c l u e ( m o p e d s , f a r m ma c h in e r y , another lane of traffic). Other situations include
construction machinery, tractors, etc.). Some of slow moving or stalled traffic in a traffic lane, and
these will have the "slow moving vehicle" symbol to accident scenes. Watch for other drivers who are
warn you. This is a red triangle with an orange in conflict because they are a hazard to you. When
center. Watch for it. they react to this conflict, they may do something
that will put them in conflict with you.
Drivers Signaling a Turn May Be a Hazard.
Drivers signaling a turn may slow more than 2.8.4 – Always Have a Plan
expected or stop. If they are making a tight turn
into an alley or driveway, they may go very slowly. You should always be looking for hazards.
If pedestrians or other vehicles block them, they Continue to learn to see hazards on the road.
may have to stop on the roadway. Vehicles turning However, don't forget why you are looking for the
left may have to stop for oncoming vehicles. hazards--they may turn into emergencies. You look
for the hazards in order to have time to plan a way
Drivers in a Hurry. Drivers may feel your out of any emergency. When you see a hazard,
commercial vehicle is preventing them from getting think about the emergencies that could develop
where they want to go on time. Such drivers may and figure out what you would do. Always be
pass you without a safe gap in the oncoming prepared to take action based on your plans. In
traffic, cutting too close in front of you. Drivers this way, you will be a prepared, defensive driver
entering the road may pull in front of you in order who will improve your own safety as well as the
to avoid being stuck behind you, causing you to safety of all road users.
brake. Be aware of this and watch for drivers who
are in a hurry.
Subsections 2.7 and 2.8
Impaired Drivers. Drivers who are sleepy, have Test Your Knowledge
had too much to drink, are on drugs, or who are ill
are hazards. Some clues to these drivers are: 1. How do you find out how many seconds of
Weaving across the road or drifting from one side following distance space you have?
to another. 2. If you are driving a 30-foot vehicle at 55
mph, how many seconds of following
Leaving the road (dropping right wheels onto the distance should you allow?
shoulder, or bumping across a curb in a turn). 3. You should decrease your following
Stopping at the wrong time (stopping at a green distance if somebody is following you too
light, or waiting for too long at a stop). closely. True or False?
4. If you swing wide to the left before turning
Open window in cold weather. right, another driver may try to pass you on
Speeding up or slowing down suddenly, driving the right. True or False?
too fast or too slow. 5. What is a hazard?
6. Why make emergency plans when you see
Be alert for drunk drivers and sleepy drivers late at a hazard?
night.
These questions may be on the test. If you can’t
Driver Body Movement as a Clue. Drivers look in answer them all, re-read subsections 2.7 and 2.8
the direction they are going to turn. You may
sometimes get a clue from a driver's head and
body movements that a driver may be going to
make a turn, even though the turn signals aren't
on. Drivers making over-the-shoulder checks may
be going to change lanes. These clues are most
easily seen in motorcyclists and bicyclists. Watch
other road users and try to tell whether they might
do something hazardous.

Conflicts. You are in conflict when you have to

change speed and/or direction to avoid hitting
someone. Conflicts occur at intersections where
vehicles meet, at merges (such as turnpike on
ramps) and where there are needed lane changes

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2.9 – Distracted Driving 2.9.2 – Use In-vehicle Communication

Equipment Cautiously
Whenever you are driving a vehicle and your
When possible, pull off the road in a safe, legal
attention is not on the road, you’re putting yourself,
place when making/receiving a call on
your passengers, other vehicles, and pedestrians
communication equipment.
in danger. Distracted driving can result when you
perform any activity that may shift your full If possible, turn the cell phone off until your
attention from the driving task. Taking your eyes off destination is reached.
the road or hands off the steering wheel presents
Position the cell phone within easy reach.
obvious driving risks. Mental activities that take
your mind away from driving are just as dangerous. Pre-program cell phones with commonly called
Your eyes can gaze at objects in the driving scene numbers.
but fail to see them because your attention is
distracted elsewhere. If you have to place a call, find a safe place to
pull off the road. Do not place a call while driving.
Activities that can distract your attention include: Some jurisdictions require that only hands-free
talking to passengers; adjusting the radio, CD devices can be used while driving. Even these
player or climate controls; eating, drinking or devices are unsafe to use when you are moving
smoking; reading maps or other literature; picking down the road.
up something that fell; reading billboards and other
road advertisements; watching other people and If you must use your cell phone, keep
vehicles including aggressive drivers; talking on a conversations short. Develop ways to get free of
cell phone or CB radio; using telematic devices long-winded friends and associates while on the
(such as navigation systems, pagers, etc.); road. Never use the cell phone for social visiting.
daydreaming or being occupied with other mental Hang up in tricky traffic situations.
distractions.
Do not use the equipment when approaching
2.9.1 – Don’t Drive Distracted locations with heavy traffic, road construction,
heavy pedestrian traffic, or severe weather
If drivers react a half-second slower because of conditions.
distractions, crashes double. Some tips to follow so
you won’t become distracted: Do not attempt to type or read messages on your
satellite system while driving.
Review and be totally familiar with all safety and
usage features on any in-vehicle electronics, 2.9.3 – Watch Out for Other Distracted
including your wireless or cell phone, before you Drivers
drive.
Pre-program radio stations. You need to be able to recognize other drivers who
are engaged in any form of driving distraction. Not
Pre-load you favorite CDs or cassette tapes. recognizing other distracted drivers can prevent
Clear the vehicle of any unnecessary objects. you from perceiving or reacting correctly in time to
prevent a crash. Watch for:
Review maps and plan your route before you
begin driving. Vehicles that may drift over the lane divider lines
or within their own lane.
Adjust all mirrors for best all-round visibility
before you start your trip. Vehicles traveling at inconsistent speeds.

Don’t attempt to read or write while you drive. Drivers who are preoccupied with maps, food,
cigarettes, cell phones, or other objects.
Avoid smoking, eating and drinking while you
drive. Drivers who appear to be involved in
conversations with their passengers.
Don’t engage in complex or emotionally intense
conversations with other occupants. Give a distracted driver plenty of room and
maintain your safe following distance.

Be very careful when passing a driver who seems

to be distracted. The other driver may not be aware
of your presence, and they may drift in front of you.

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2.10 – Aggressive Drivers/Road Rage 2.10.3 – What You Should Do When

Confronted by an Aggressive Driver
2.10.1 – What Is It?
Aggressive driving and road rage is not a new
First and foremost, make every attempt to get out
problem. However, in today’s world, where heavy
of their way.
and slow-moving traffic and tight schedules are the
norm, more and more drivers are taking out their Put your pride in the back seat. Do not challenge
anger and frustration in their vehicles. them by speeding up or attempting to hold-your-
own in your travel lane.
Crowded roads leave little room for error, leading
Avoid eye contact.
to suspicion and hostility among drivers and
encouraging them to take personally the mistakes Ignore gestures and refuse to react to them.
of other drivers.
Report aggressive drivers to the appropriate
authorities by providing a vehicle description,
Aggressive driving is the act of operating a motor
license number, location and, if possible,
vehicle in a selfish, bold, or pushy manner, without
direction of travel.
regard for the rights or safety of others.
If you have a cell phone, and can do it safely, call
Road rage is operating a motor vehicle with the the police.
intent of doing harm to others or physically
assaulting a driver or their vehicle. If an aggressive driver is involved in a crash
farther down the road, stop a safe distance from
the crash scene, wait for the police to arrive, and
2.10.2 – Don’t Be an Aggressive Driver report the driving behavior that you witnessed.
How you feel before you even start your vehicle
has a lot to do with how stress will affect you while
driving.
Subsections 2.9 and 2.10
Reduce your stress before and while you drive. Test Your Knowledge
Listen to “easy listening” music.
Give the drive your full attention. Don’t allow 1. What are some tips to follow so you won’t
yourself to become distracted by talking on your become a distracted driver?
cell phone, eating, etc. 2. How do you use in-vehicle
communications equipment cautiously?
Be realistic about your travel time. Expect delays 3. How do you recognize a distracted driver?
because of traffic, construction, or bad weather 4. What is the difference between aggressive
and make allowances. driving and road rage?
If you’re going to be later than you expected – 5. What should you do when confronted with
deal with it. Take a deep breath and accept the an aggressive driver?
delay. 6. What are some things you can do to
reduce your stress before and while you
Give other drivers the benefit of the doubt. Try to drive?
imagine why he or she is driving that way.
Whatever their reason, it has nothing to do with These questions may be on the test. If you can’t
you. answer them all, re-read subsections 2.9 and 2.10.
Slow down and keep your following distance
reasonable.
Don’t drive slowly in the left lane of traffic. 2.11 – Driving at Night
Avoid gestures. Keep you hands on the wheel.
2.11.1 – It's More Dangerous
Avoid making any gestures that might anger
another driver, even seemingly harmless
You are at greater risk when you drive at night.
expressions of irritation like shaking your head.
Drivers can't see hazards as quickly as in daylight,
Be a cautious and courteous driver. If another so they have less time to respond. Drivers caught
driver seems eager to get in front of you, say, “Be by surprise are less able to avoid a crash.
my guest.” This response will soon become a The problems of night driving involve the driver,
habit and you won’t be as offended by other the roadway, and the vehicle.
drivers’ actions.

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2.11.2 – Driver Factors and to you. Be especially alert around the closing
times for bars and taverns. Watch for drivers who
Vision. People can't see as sharply at night or in have trouble staying in their lane or maintaining
dim light. Also, their eyes need time to adjust to speed, who stop without reason, or show other
seeing in dim light. Most people have noticed this signs of being under the influence of alcohol or
when walking into a dark movie theater. drugs.

Glare. Drivers can be blinded for a short time by 2.11.4 – Vehicle Factors
bright light. It takes time to recover from this
blindness. Older drivers are especially bothered by Headlights. At night your headlights will usually be
glare. Most people have been temporarily blinded the main source of light for you to see by and for
by camera flash units or by the high beams of an others to see you. You can't see nearly as much
oncoming vehicle. It can take several seconds to with your headlights as you see in the daytime.
recover from glare. Even two seconds of glare With low beams you can see ahead about 250 feet
blindness can be dangerous. A vehicle going 55 and with high beams about 350-500 feet. You must
mph will travel more than half the distance of a adjust your speed to keep your stopping distance
football field during that time. Don't look directly at within your sight distance. This means going slowly
bright lights when driving. Look at the right side of enough to be able to stop within the range of your
the road. Watch the sidelines when someone headlights. Otherwise, by the time you see a
coming toward you has very bright lights on. hazard, you will not have time to stop.

Fatigue and Lack of Alertness. Fatigue (being Night driving can be more dangerous if you have
tired) and lack of alertness are bigger problems at problems with your headlights. Dirty headlights
night. The body's need for sleep is beyond a may give only half the light they should. This cuts
person's control. Most people are less alert at down your ability to see, and makes it harder for
night, especially after midnight. This is particularly others to see you. Make sure your lights are clean
true if you have been driving for a long time. and working. Headlights can be out of adjustment.
Drivers may not see hazards as soon, or react as If they don't point in the right direction, they won't
quickly, so the chance of a crash is greater. If you give you a good view and they can blind other
are sleepy, the only safe cure is to get off the road drivers. Have a qualified person make sure they
and get some sleep. If you don't, you risk your life are adjusted properly.
and the lives of others.
Other Lights. In order for you to be seen easily,
2.11.3 – Roadway Factors the following must be clean and working properly:
Reflectors.
Poor Lighting. In the daytime there is usually
enough light to see well. This is not true at night. Marker lights.
Some areas may have bright street lights, but
Clearance lights.
many areas will have poor lighting. On most roads
you will probably have to depend entirely on your Taillights.
headlights.
Identification lights.
Less light means you will not be able to see
Turn Signals and Brake Lights. At night your turn
hazards as well as in daytime. Road users who do
signals and brake lights are even more important
not have lights are hard to see. There are many
for telling other drivers what you intend to do.
accidents at night involving pedestrians, joggers,
Make sure you have clean, working turn signals
bicyclists, and animals.
and stop lights.
Even when there are lights, the road scene can be
Windshield and Mirrors. It is more important at
confusing. Traffic signals and hazards can be hard
night than in the daytime to have a clean
to see against a background of signs, shop
windshield and clean mirrors. Bright lights at night
windows, and other lights.
can cause dirt on your windshield or mirrors to
create a glare of its own, blocking your view. Most
Drive slower when lighting is poor or confusing.
people have experienced driving toward the sun
Drive slowly enough to be sure you can stop in the
just as it has risen or is about to set, and found that
distance you can see ahead.
they can barely see through a windshield that
seemed to look OK in the middle of the day. Clean
Drunk Drivers. Drunk drivers and drivers under
your windshield on the inside and outside for safe
the influence of drugs are a hazard to themselves
driving at night.

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2.11.5 – Night Driving Procedures 2.12 – Driving in Fog

Pre-trip Procedures. Make sure you are rested Fog can occur at any time. Fog on highways can
and alert. If you are drowsy, sleep before you be extremely dangerous. Fog is often unexpected,
drive! Even a nap can save your life or the lives of and visibility can deteriorate rapidly. You should
others. If you wear eyeglasses, make sure they are watch for foggy conditions and be ready to reduce
clean and unscratched. Don't wear sunglasses at your speed. Do not assume that the fog will thin
night. Do a complete pre-trip inspection of your out after you enter it.
vehicle. Pay attention to checking all lights and
reflectors, and cleaning those you can reach. The best advice for driving in fog is don’t. It is
preferable that you pull off the road into a rest area
Avoid Blinding Others. Glare from your or truck stop until visibility is better. If you must
headlights can cause problems for drivers coming drive, be sure to consider the following:
toward you. They can also bother drivers going in
the same direction you are, when your lights shine Obey all fog-related warning signs.
in their rearview mirrors. Dim your lights before Slow down before you enter fog.
they cause glare for other drivers. Dim your lights
within 500 feet of an oncoming vehicle and when Use low-beam headlights and fog lights for best
following another vehicle within 500 feet. visibility even in daytime, and be alert for other
drivers who may have forgotten to turn on their
Avoid Glare from Oncoming Vehicles. Do not lights.
look directly at lights of oncoming vehicles. Look Turn on your 4-way flashers. This will give
slightly to the right at a right lane or edge marking, vehicles approaching you from behind a quicker
if available. If other drivers don't put their low opportunity to notice your vehicle.
beams on, don't try to "get back at them" by putting
your own high beams on. This increases glare for Watch for vehicles on the side of the roadway.
oncoming drivers and increases the chance of a Seeing taillights or headlights in front of you may
crash. not be a true indication of where the road is
ahead of you. The vehicle may not be on the
Use High Beams When You Can. Some drivers road at all.
make the mistake of always using low beams. This Use roadside highway reflectors as guides to
seriously cuts down on their ability to see ahead. determine how the road may curve ahead of you.
Use high beams when it is safe and legal to do so.
Use them when you are not within 500 feet of an Listen for traffic you cannot see.
approaching vehicle. Also, don't let the inside of Avoid passing other vehicles.
your cab get too bright. This makes it harder to see
outside. Keep the interior light off, and adjust your Don’t stop along the side of the road, unless
instrument lights as low as you can to still be able absolutely necessary.
to read the gauges.

If You Get Sleepy, Stop at the Nearest Safe 2.13 – Driving in Winter
Place. People often don't realize how close they
are to falling asleep even when their eyelids are 2.13.1 – Vehicle Checks
falling shut. If you can safely do so, look at yourself
in a mirror. If you look sleepy, or you just feel Make sure your vehicle is ready before driving in
sleepy, stop driving! You are in a very dangerous winter weather. You should make a regular pre-trip
condition. The only safe cure is to sleep. inspection, paying extra attention to the following
items.

Coolant Level and Antifreeze Amount. Make

sure the cooling system is full and there is enough
antifreeze in the system to protect against freezing.
This can be checked with a special coolant tester.

Defrosting and Heating Equipment. Make sure

the defrosters work. They are needed for safe
driving. Make sure the heater is working, and that
you know how to operate it. If you use other
heaters and expect to need them (e.g., mirror

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heaters, battery box heaters, fuel tank heaters), poor (windows rolled up, etc.). Loose connections
check their operation. could permit poisonous carbon monoxide to leak
into your vehicle. Carbon monoxide gas will cause
Wipers and Washers. Make sure the windshield you to be sleepy. In large enough amounts it can
wiper blades are in good condition. Make sure the kill you. Check the exhaust system for loose parts
wiper blades press against the window hard and for sounds and signs of leaks.
enough to wipe the windshield clean, otherwise
they may not sweep off snow properly. Make sure 2.13.2 – Driving
the windshield washer works and there is washing
fluid in the washer reservoir. Slippery Surfaces. Drive slowly and smoothly on
slippery roads. If it is very slippery, you shouldn't
Use windshield washer antifreeze to prevent drive at all. Stop at the first safe place.
freezing of the washer liquid. If you can't see well
enough while driving (for example, if your wipers Start Gently and Slowly. When first starting, get
fail), stop safely and fix the problem. the feel of the road. Don't hurry.

Tires. Make sure you have enough tread on your Check for Ice. Check for ice on the road,
tires. The drive tires must provide traction to push especially bridges and overpasses. A lack of spray
the rig over wet pavement and through snow. The from other vehicles indicates ice has formed on the
steering tires must have traction to steer the road. Also, check your mirrors and wiper blades for
vehicle. Enough tread is especially important in ice. If they have ice, the road most likely will be icy
winter conditions. You must have at least 4/32 inch as well.
tread depth in every major groove on front tires
and at least 2/32 inch on other tires. More would Adjust Turning and Braking to Conditions.
be better. Use a gauge to determine if you have Make turns as gently as possible. Don't brake any
enough tread for safe driving. harder than necessary, and don't use the engine
brake or speed retarder. (They can cause the
Tire Chains. You may find yourself in conditions driving wheels to skid on slippery surfaces.)
where you can't drive without chains, even to get to
a place of safety. Carry the right number of chains Adjust Speed to Conditions. Don't pass slower
and extra cross-links. Make sure they will fit your vehicles unless necessary. Go slowly and watch
drive tires. Check the chains for broken hooks, far enough ahead to keep a steady speed. Avoid
worn or broken cross-links, and bent or broken having to slow down and speed up. Take curves at
side chains. Learn how to put the chains on before slower speeds and don't brake while in curves. Be
you need to do it in snow and ice. aware that as the temperature rises to the point
where ice begins to melt, the road becomes even
Lights and Reflectors. Make sure the lights and more slippery. Slow down more.
reflectors are clean. Lights and reflectors are
especially important during bad weather. Check Adjust Space to Conditions. Don't drive
from time to time during bad weather to make sure alongside other vehicles. Keep a longer following
they are clean and working properly. distance. When you see a traffic jam ahead, slow
down or stop to wait for it to clear. Try hard to
Windows and Mirrors. Remove any ice, snow, anticipate stops early and slow down gradually.
etc., from the windshield, windows, and mirrors Watch for snowplows, as well as salt and sand
before starting. Use a windshield scraper, snow trucks, and give them plenty of room.
brush, and windshield defroster as necessary.
Wet Brakes. When driving in heavy rain or deep
Hand Holds, Steps, and Deck Plates. Remove all standing water, your brakes will get wet. Water in
ice and snow from hand holds, steps, and deck the brakes can cause the brakes to be weak, to
plates. This will reduce the danger of slipping. apply unevenly, or to grab. This can cause lack of
braking power, wheel lockups, pulling to one side
Radiator Shutters and Winterfront. Remove ice or the other, and jackknife if you pull a trailer.
from the radiator shutters. Make sure the
winterfront is not closed too tightly. If the shutters Avoid driving through deep puddles or flowing
freeze shut or the winterfront is closed too much, water if possible. If not, you should:
the engine may overheat and stop.
Slow down and place transmission in a low gear.
Exhaust System. Exhaust system leaks are
especially dangerous when cab ventilation may be

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Gently put on the brakes. This presses linings safely removed and coolant added even when the
against brake drums or discs and keeps mud, silt, engine is at operating temperature.
sand, and water from getting in. Never remove the radiator cap or any part of the
pressurized system until the system has cooled.
Increase engine rpm and cross the water while
Steam and boiling water can spray under pressure
keeping light pressure on the brakes.
and cause severe burns. If you can touch the
When out of the water, maintain light pressure on radiator cap with your bare hand, it is probably cool
the brakes for a short distance to heat them up enough to open.
and dry them out.
If coolant has to be added to a system without a
Make a test stop when safe to do so. Check
recovery tank or overflow tank, follow these steps:
behind to make sure no one is following, then
apply the brakes to be sure they work well. If not, Shut engine off.
dry them out further as described above.
Wait until engine has cooled.
(CAUTION: Do not apply too much brake
pressure and accelerator at the same time, or Protect hands (use gloves or a thick cloth).
you can overheat brake drums and linings.)
Turn radiator cap slowly to the first stop, which
releases the pressure seal.

2.14 – Driving in Very Hot Weather Step back while pressure is released from
cooling system.
2.14.1 – Vehicle Checks When all pressure has been released, press
down on the cap and turn it further to remove it.
Do a normal pre-trip inspection, but pay special
attention to the following items. Visually check level of coolant and add more
coolant if necessary.
Tires. Check the tire mounting and air pressure. Replace cap and turn all the way to the closed
Inspect the tires every two hours or every 100 position.
miles when driving in very hot weather. Air
pressure increases with temperature. Do not let air Engine Belts. Learn how to check v-belt tightness
out or the pressure will be too low when the tires on your vehicle by pressing on the belts. Loose
cool off. If a tire is too hot to touch, remain stopped belts will not turn the water pump and/or fan
until the tire cools off. Otherwise the tire may blow properly. This will result in overheating. Also, check
out or catch fire. belts for cracking or other signs of wear.
Hoses. Make sure coolant hoses are in good
Engine Oil. The engine oil helps keep the engine condition. A broken hose while driving can lead to
cool, as well as lubricating it. Make sure there is engine failure and even fire.
enough engine oil. If you have an oil temperature
gauge, make sure the temperature is within the 2.14.2 – Driving
proper range while you are driving.
Watch for Bleeding Tar. Tar in the road pavement
Engine Coolant. Before starting out, make sure frequently rises to the surface in very hot weather.
the engine cooling system has enough water and Spots where tar "bleeds" to the surface are very
antifreeze according to the engine manufacturer's slippery.
directions. (Antifreeze helps the engine under hot
conditions as well as cold conditions.) When Go Slowly Enough to Prevent Overheating.
driving, check the water temperature or coolant High speeds create more heat for tires and the
temperature gauge from time to time. Make sure engine. In desert conditions the heat may build up
that it remains in the normal range. If the gauge to the point where it is dangerous. The heat will
goes above the highest safe temperature, there increase chances of tire failure or even fire, and
may be something wrong that could lead to engine engine failure.
failure and possibly fire. Stop driving as soon as
safely possible and try to find out what is wrong.

Some vehicles have sight glasses, see-through

coolant overflow containers, or coolant recovery
containers. These permit you to check the coolant
level while the engine is hot. If the container is not
part of the pressurized system, the cap can be

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Subsections 2.11, 2.12, 2.13, and 2.14

Test Your Knowledge

1. You should use low beams whenever you

can. True or False?
2. What should you do before you drive if you
are drowsy?
3. What effects can wet brakes cause? How
can you avoid these problems?
4. You should let air out of hot tires so the
pressure goes back to normal. True or
False?
5. You can safely remove the radiator cap as
long as the engine isn't overheated. True
or False?

These questions may be on the test. If you can’t

answer all of them, re-read subsections 2.11, 2.12,
2.13, and 2.14. Figure 2.15

Pavement Markings. Pavement markings mean

the same as the advance warning sign. They
2.15 – Railroad-highway Crossings consist of an “X” with the letters “”RR” and a no-
passing marking on two-lane roads. See Figure
Railroad-highway grade crossings are a special 2.16.
kind of intersection where the roadway crosses
train tracks. These crossings are always
dangerous. Every such crossing must be
approached with the expectation that a train is
coming.

2.15.1 – Types of Crossings

Passive Crossings. This type of crossing does

not have any type of traffic control device. The
decision to stop or proceed rests entirely in your
hands. Passive crossings require you to recognize
the crossing, search for any train using the tracks
and decide if there is sufficient clear space to cross
safely. Passive crossings have yellow circular
advance warning signs, pavement markings and
crossbucks to assist you in recognizing a crossing.

Active Crossings. This type of crossing has a

traffic control device installed at the crossing to Figure 2.16
regulate traffic at the crossing. These active
devices include flashing red lights, with or without There is also a no passing zone sign on two-lane
bells and flashing red lights with bells and gates. roads. There may be a white stop line painted on
the pavement before the railroad tracks. The front
2.15.2 – Warning Signs and Devices of the school bus must remain behind this line
while stopped at the crossing.
Advance Warning Signs. The round, black-on-
yellow warning sign is placed ahead of a public Crossbuck Signs. This sign marks the grade
railroad-highway crossing. The advance warning crossing. It requires you to yield the right-of-way to
sign tells you to slow down, look and listen for the the train. If there is no white line painted on the
train, and be prepared to stop at the tracks if a train pavement, you must stop the bus before the
is coming. See Figure 2.15. crossbuck sign. When the road crosses over more

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

than one set of tracks, a sign below the crossbuck Figure 2.18
indicates the number of tracks. See Figure 2.17.
2.15.3 – Driving Procedures

Never Race a Train to a Crossing. Never attempt

to race a train to a crossing. It is extremely difficult
to judge the speed of an approaching train.

Reduce Speed. Speed must be reduced in

accordance with your ability to see approaching
trains in any direction, and speed must be held to a
point which will permit you to stop short of the
tracks in case a stop is necessary.

Don't Expect to Hear a Train. Because of noise

inside your vehicle, you cannot expect to hear the
train horn until the train is dangerously close to the
crossing.

Don't Rely on Signals. You should not rely solely

upon the presence of warning signals, gates, or
flagmen to warn of the approach of trains. Be
especially alert at crossings that do not have gates
or flashing red light signals.
Figure 2.17
Double Tracks Require a Double Check.
Flashing Red Light Signals. At many highway- Remember that a train on one track may hide a
rail grade crossings, the crossbuck sign has train on the other track. Look both ways before
flashing red lights and bells. When the lights begin crossing. After one train has cleared a crossing, be
to flash, stop! A train is approaching. You are sure no other trains are near before starting across
required to yield the right-of-way to the train. If the tracks.
there is more than one track, make sure all tracks
are clear before crossing. See Figure 2.18. Yard Areas and Grade Crossings in Cities and
Towns. Yard areas and grade crossings in cities
Gates. Many railroad-highway crossings have and towns are just as dangerous as rural grade
gates with flashing red lights and bells. Stop when crossings. Approach them with as much caution.
the lights begin to flash and before the gate lowers
across the road lane. Remain stopped until the
gates go up and the lights have stopped flashing.
Proceed when it is safe. See Figure 2.18.

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2.15.4 – Stopping Safely at Railroad- proper braking techniques. You should plan ahead
highway Crossings and obtain information about any long, steep
A full stop is required at grade crossings whenever: grades along your planned route of travel. If
possible, talk to other drivers who are familiar with
The nature of the cargo makes a stop mandatory the grades to find out what speeds are safe.
under state or federal regulations.
Such a stop is otherwise required by law. You must go slowly enough so your brakes can
hold you back without getting too hot. If the brakes
When stopping be sure to: become too hot, they may start to "fade." This
means you have to apply them harder and harder
Check for traffic behind you while stopping to get the same stopping power. If you continue to
gradually. Use a pullout lane, if available. use the brakes hard, they can keep fading until you
Turn on your four-way emergency flashers. cannot slow down or stop at all.

2.15.5 – Crossing the Tracks 2.16.1 – Select a "Safe" Speed

Railroad crossings with steep approaches can Your most important consideration is to select a
cause your unit to hang up on the tracks. speed that is not too fast for the:
Total weight of the vehicle and cargo.
Never permit traffic conditions to trap you in a
position where you have to stop on the tracks. Be Length of the grade.
sure you can get all the way across the tracks Steepness of the grade.
before you start across. It takes a typical tractor-
trailer unit at least 14 seconds to clear a single Road conditions.
track and more than 15 seconds to clear a double Weather.
track.
If a speed limit is posted, or there is a sign
Do not shift gears while crossing railroad tracks. indicating "Maximum Safe Speed," never exceed
the speed shown. Also, look for and heed warning
2.15.6 – Special Situations signs indicating the length and steepness of the
grade.
Be Aware! These trailers can get stuck on raised
crossings: You must use the braking effect of the engine as
Low slung units (lowboy, car carrier, moving van, the principal way of controlling your speed. The
possum-belly livestock trailer). braking effect of the engine is greatest when it is
near the governed rpms and the transmission is in
Single-axle tractor pulling a long trailer with its the lower gears. Save your brakes so you will be
landing gear set to accommodate a tandem-axle able to slow or stop as required by road and traffic
tractor. conditions.

If for any reason you get stuck on the tracks, get 2.16.2 – Select the Right Gear Before
out of the vehicle and away from the tracks. Check Starting Down the Grade
signposts or signal housing at the crossing for
emergency notification information. Call 911 or Shift the transmission to a low gear before starting
other emergency number. Give the location of the down the grade. Do not try to downshift after your
crossing using all identifiable landmarks, especially speed has already built up. You will not be able to
the DOT number, if posted. shift into a lower gear. You may not even be able
to get back into any gear and all engine braking
effect will be lost. Forcing an automatic
2.16 – Mountain Driving transmission into a lower gear at high speed could
damage the transmission and also lead to loss of
In mountain driving, gravity plays a major role. On all engine braking effect.
any upgrade, gravity slows you down. The steeper
the grade, the longer the grade, and/or the heavier With older trucks, a rule for choosing gears is to
the load--the more you will have to use lower gears use the same gear going down a hill that you
to climb hills or mountains. In coming down long, would need to climb the hill. However, new trucks
steep downgrades, gravity causes the speed of have low friction parts and streamlined shapes for
your vehicle to increase. You must select an fuel economy. They may also have more powerful
appropriate safe speed, then use a low gear, and

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engines. This means they can go up hills in higher vehicle, sometimes in combination with an
gears and have less friction and air drag to hold upgrade.
them back going down hills. For that reason,
drivers of modern trucks may have to use lower Know escape ramp locations on your route. Signs
gears going down a hill than would be required to show drivers where ramps are located. Escape
go up the hill. You should know what is right for ramps save lives, equipment and cargo.
your vehicle.

2.16.3 – Brake Fading or Failure

Subsections 2.15 and 2.16
Brakes are designed so brake shoes or pads rub Test Your Knowledge
against the brake drum or disks to slow the vehicle.
Braking creates heat, but brakes are designed to 1. What factors determine your selection of a
take a lot of heat. However, brakes can fade or fail "safe" speed when going down a long,
from excessive heat caused by using them too steep downgrade?
much and not relying on the engine braking effect. 2. Why should you be in the proper gear
before starting down a hill?
Brake fade is also affected by adjustment. To 3. Describe the proper braking technique
safely control a vehicle, every brake must do its when going down a long, steep
share of the work. Brakes out of adjustment will downgrade.
stop doing their share before those that are in 4. What type of vehicles can get stuck on a
adjustment. The other brakes can then overheat railroad-highway crossing?
and fade, and there will not be enough braking 5. How long does it take for a typical tractor-
available to control the vehicle. Brakes can get out trailer unit to clear a double track?
of adjustment quickly, especially when they are
used a lot; also, brake linings wear faster when These questions may be on the test. If you can’t
they are hot. Therefore, brake adjustment must be answer them all, re-read subsections 2.15 and
checked frequently. 2.16.

2.16.4 – Proper Braking Technique

Remember. The use of brakes on a long and/or 2.17 – Driving Emergencies

steep downgrade is only a supplement to the
braking effect of the engine. Once the vehicle is in Traffic emergencies occur when two vehicles are
the proper low gear, the following are the proper about to collide. Vehicle emergencies occur when
braking techniques: tires, brakes, or other critical parts fail. Following
the safety practices in this manual can help
prevent emergencies. But if an emergency does
Apply the brakes just hard enough to feel a happen, your chances of avoiding a crash depend
definite slowdown. upon how well you take action. Actions you can
When your speed has been reduced to take are discussed below.
approximately five mph below your "safe" speed,
release the brakes. (This brake application 2.17.1 – Steering to Avoid a Crash
should last for about three seconds.)
Stopping is not always the safest thing to do in an
When your speed has increased to your "safe" emergency. When you don't have enough room to
speed, repeat steps 1 and 2. stop, you may have to steer away from what's
For example, if your "safe" speed is 40 mph, you ahead. Remember, you can almost always turn to
would not apply the brakes until your speed miss an obstacle more quickly than you can stop.
reaches 40 mph. You now apply the brakes hard (However, top-heavy vehicles and tractors with
enough to gradually reduce your speed to 35 mph multiple trailers may flip over.)
and then release the brakes. Repeat this as often
as necessary until you have reached the end of the Keep Both Hands on the Steering Wheel. In
downgrade. order to turn quickly, you must have a firm grip on
the steering wheel with both hands. The best way
Escape ramps have been built on many steep to have both hands on the wheel, if there is an
mountain downgrades. Escape ramps are made to emergency, is to keep them there all the time.
stop runaway vehicles safely without injuring
drivers and passengers. Escape ramps use a long
bed of loose, soft material to slow a runaway

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How to Turn Quickly and Safely. A quick turn Returning to the Road. If you are forced to return
can be made safely, if it's done the right way. Here to the road before you can stop, use the following
are some points that safe drivers use: procedure:
Do not apply the brake while you are turning. It's Hold the wheel tightly and turn sharply enough to
very easy to lock your wheels while turning. If get right back on the road safely. Don't try to
that happens, you may skid out of control. edge gradually back on the road. If you do, your
Do not turn any more than needed to clear tires might grab unexpectedly and you could lose
whatever is in your way. The more sharply you control.
turn, the greater the chances of a skid or rollover. When both front tires are on the paved surface,
Be prepared to "countersteer," that is, to turn the countersteer immediately. The two turns should
wheel back in the other direction, once you've be made as a single "steer-countersteer" move.
passed whatever was in your path. Unless you
are prepared to countersteer, you won't be able 2.17.2 – How to Stop Quickly and Safely
to do it quickly enough. You should think of
emergency steering and countersteering as two If somebody suddenly pulls out in front of you, your
parts of one driving action. natural response is to hit the brakes. This is a good
response if there's enough distance to stop, and
Where to Steer. If an oncoming driver has drifted you use the brakes correctly.
into your lane, a move to your right is best. If that
driver realizes what has happened, the natural You should brake in a way that will keep your
response will be to return to his or her own lane. vehicle in a straight line and allow you to turn if it
becomes necessary. You can use the "controlled
If something is blocking your path, the best braking" method or the "stab braking" method.
direction to steer will depend on the situation.
Controlled Braking. With this method, you apply
the brakes as hard as you can without locking the
If you have been using your mirrors, you'll know wheels. Keep steering wheel movements very
which lane is empty and can be safely used. small while doing this. If you need to make a larger
If the shoulder is clear, going right may be best. steering adjustment or if the wheels lock, release
No one is likely to be driving on the shoulder but the brakes. Re-apply the brakes as soon as you
someone may be passing you on the left. You will can.
know if you have been using your mirrors.
Stab Braking
If you are blocked on both sides, a move to the
right may be best. At least you won't force Apply your brakes all the way.
anyone into an opposing traffic lane and a Release brakes when wheels lock up.
possible head-on collision.
Leaving the Road. In some emergencies, you As soon as the wheels start rolling, apply the
may have to drive off the road. It may be less risky brakes fully again. (It can take up to one second
than facing a collision with another vehicle. for the wheels to start rolling after you release the
brakes. If you re-apply the brakes before the
Most shoulders are strong enough to support the wheels start rolling, the vehicle won't straighten
weight of a large vehicle and, therefore, offer an out.)
available escape route. Here are some guidelines,
if you do leave the road. Don't Jam on the Brakes. Emergency braking
does not mean pushing down on the brake pedal
Avoid Braking. If possible, avoid using the brakes as hard as you can. That will only keep the wheels
until your speed has dropped to about 20 mph. locked up and cause a skid. If the wheels are
Then brake very gently to avoid skidding on a skidding, you cannot control the vehicle.
loose surface.
2.17.3 – Brake Failure
Keep One Set of Wheels on the Pavement, if
Possible. This helps to maintain control. Brakes kept in good condition rarely fail. Most
hydraulic brake failures occur for one of two
Stay on the Shoulder. If the shoulder is clear, reasons: (Air brakes are discussed in Section 5.)
stay on it until your vehicle has come to a stop. Loss of hydraulic pressure.
Signal and check your mirrors before pulling back
onto the road. Brake fade on long hills.

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Loss of Hydraulic Pressure. When the system 2.17.4 – Tire Failure

won't build up pressure, the brake pedal will feel
spongy or go to the floor. Here are some things Recognize Tire Failure. Quickly knowing you
you can do. have a tire failure will let you have more time to
react. Having just a few extra seconds to
Downshift. Putting the vehicle into a lower gear remember what it is you're supposed to do can
will help to slow the vehicle. help you. The major signs of tire failure are:

Pump the Brakes. Sometimes pumping the brake Sound. The loud "bang" of a blowout is an easily
pedal will generate enough hydraulic pressure to recognized sign. Because it can take a few
stop the vehicle. seconds for your vehicle to react, you might think
it was some other vehicle. But any time you hear
Use the Parking Brake. The parking or a tire blow, you'd be safest to assume it is yours.
emergency brake is separate from the hydraulic Vibration. If the vehicle thumps or vibrates
brake system. Therefore, it can be used to slow the heavily, it may be a sign that one of the tires has
vehicle. However, be sure to press the release gone flat. With a rear tire, that may be the only
button or pull the release lever at the same time sign you get.
you use the emergency brake so you can adjust
the brake pressure and keep the wheels from Feel. If the steering feels "heavy," it is probably a
locking up. sign that one of the front tires has failed.
Sometimes, failure of a rear tire will cause the
Find an Escape Route. While slowing the vehicle, vehicle to slide back and forth or "fishtail."
look for an escape route--an open field, side street, However, dual rear tires usually prevent this.
or escape ramp. Turning uphill is a good way to
slow and stop the vehicle. Make sure the vehicle Respond to Tire Failure. When a tire fails, your
does not start rolling backward after you stop. Put vehicle is in danger. You must immediately:
it in low gear, apply the parking brake, and, if Hold the Steering Wheel Firmly. If a front tire
necessary, roll back into some obstacle that will fails, it can twist the steering wheel out of your
stop the vehicle. hand. The only way to prevent this is to keep a
Brake Failure on Downgrades. Going slow firm grip on the steering wheel with both hands at
enough and braking properly will almost always all times.
prevent brake failure on long downgrades. Once
the brakes have failed, however, you are going to Stay Off the Brake. It's natural to want to brake in
have to look outside your vehicle for something to an emergency. However, braking when a tire has
stop it. failed could cause loss of control. Unless you're
about to run into something, stay off the brake
Your best hope is an escape ramp. If there is one, until the vehicle has slowed down. Then brake
there'll be signs telling you about it. Use it. Ramps very gently, pull off the road, and stop.
are usually located a few miles from the top of the Check the Tires. After you've come to a stop, get
downgrade. Every year, hundreds of drivers avoid out and check all the tires. Do this even if the
injury to themselves or damage to their vehicles by vehicle seems to be handling all right. If one of
using escape ramps. Some escape ramps use soft your dual tires goes, the only way you may know
gravel that resists the motion of the vehicle and it is by getting out and looking at it.
brings it to a stop. Others turn uphill, using the hill
to stop the vehicle and soft gravel to hold it in
place.

Any driver who loses brakes going downhill should

use an escape ramp if it's available. If you don't
use it, your chances of having a serious crash may
be much greater. 2.18 – Antilock Braking Systems (ABS)
If no escape ramp is available, take the least ABS is a computerized system that keeps your
hazardous escape route you can--such as an open wheels from locking up during hard brake
field or a side road that flattens out or turns uphill. applications.
Make the move as soon as you know your brakes
don't work. The longer you wait, the faster the ABS is an addition to your normal brakes. It does
vehicle will go, and the harder it will be to stop. not decrease or increase your normal braking

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

capability. ABS only activates when wheels are If the lamp stays on after the bulb check, or goes
about to lock up. on once you are under way, you may have lost
ABS control.
ABS does not necessarily shorten your stopping
distance, but it does help you keep the vehicle In the case of towed units manufactured before it
under control during hard braking. was required by the Department of Transportation,
it may be difficult to tell if the unit is equipped with
2.18.1 – How Antilock Braking Systems ABS. Look under the vehicle for the ECU and
Work wheel speed sensor wires coming from the back of
the brakes.
Sensors detect potential wheel lock up. An
electronic control unit (ECU) will then decrease 2.18.4 – How ABS Helps You
brake pressure to avoid wheel lockup.
When you brake hard on slippery surfaces in a
Brake pressure is adjusted to provide the vehicle without ABS, your wheels may lock up.
maximum braking without danger of lockup. When your steering wheels lock up, you lose
steering control. When your other wheels lock up,
ABS works far faster than the driver can respond to you may skid, jackknife, or even spin the vehicle.
potential wheel lockup. At all other times the brake
system will operate normally. ABS helps you avoid wheel lock up and maintain
control. You may or may not be able to stop faster
2.18.2 – Vehicles Required to Have with ABS, but you should be able to steer around
Antilock Braking Systems an obstacle while braking, and avoid skids caused
by over braking.
The Department of Transportation requires that
ABS be on: 2.18.5 – ABS on the Tractor Only or Only
on the Trailer
Truck tractors with air brakes built on or after
March 1, 1997. Having ABS on only the tractor, only the trailer, or
Other air brake vehicles, (trucks, buses, trailers, even on only one axle, still gives you more control
and converter dollies) built on or after March 1, over the vehicle during braking. Brake normally.
1998.
When only the tractor has ABS, you should be able
Hydraulically braked trucks and buses with a to maintain steering control, and there is less
gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 lbs or more chance of jackknifing. But keep your eye on the
built on or after March 1, 1999. trailer and let up on the brakes (if you can safely
do so) if it begins to swing out.
Many commercial vehicles built before these dates
have been voluntarily equipped with ABS. When only the trailer has ABS, the trailer is less
likely to swing out, but if you lose steering control
or start a tractor jackknife, let up on the brakes (if
2.18.3 – How to Know If Your Vehicle Is you can safely do so) until you regain control.
Equipped with ABS
2.18.6 – Braking with ABS
Tractors, trucks, and buses will have yellow ABS
malfunction lamps on the instrument panel.
When you drive a vehicle with ABS, you should
brake as you always have. In other words:
Trailers will have yellow ABS malfunction lamps on
the left side, either on the front or rear corner. Use only the braking force necessary to stop
safely and stay in control.
Dollies manufactured on or after March 1, 1998,
Brake the same way, regardless of whether you
are required to have a lamp on the left side.
have ABS on the bus, tractor, the trailer, or both.
As a system check on newer vehicles, the As you slow down, monitor your tractor and trailer
malfunction lamp comes on at start-up for a bulb and back off the brakes (if it is safe to do so) to
check, and then goes out quickly. On older stay in control.
systems, the lamp could stay on until you are
driving over five mph. There is only one exception to this procedure. If
you drive a straight truck or combination with

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

working ABS on all axles, in an emergency stop, 2.19 – Skid Control and Recovery
you can fully apply the brakes.
A skid happens whenever the tires lose their grip
2.18.7 – Braking If ABS Is Not Working on the road. This is caused in one of four ways:

Without ABS you still have normal brake functions. Over-braking. Braking too hard and locking up
Drive and brake as you always have. the wheels. Skids also can occur when using the
speed retarder when the road is slippery.
Vehicles with ABS have yellow malfunction lamps
to tell you if something isn’t working. Over-steering. Turning the wheels more sharply
than the vehicle can turn.
As a system check on newer vehicles, the
malfunction lamp comes on at start-up for a bulb Over-acceleration. Supplying too much power
check and then goes out quickly. On older to the drive wheels, causing them to spin.
systems, the lamp could stay on until you are
driving over five mph. Driving Too Fast. Most serious skids result
from driving too fast for road conditions. Drivers
If the lamp stays on after the bulb check, or goes who adjust their driving to conditions don't over-
on once you are under way, you may have lost accelerate and don't have to over-brake or over-
ABS control on one or more wheels. steer from too much speed.

Remember, if your ABS malfunctions, you still 2.19.1 – Drive-wheel Skids

have regular brakes. Drive normally, but get the
system serviced soon. By far the most common skid is one in which the
rear wheels lose traction through excessive
braking or acceleration. Skids caused by
2.18.8 – Safety Reminders
acceleration usually happen on ice or snow.
ABS won’t allow you to drive faster, follow more Taking your foot off the accelerator can easily stop
closely, or drive less carefully. them. (If it is very slippery, push the clutch in.
Otherwise, the engine can keep the wheels from
ABS won’t prevent power or turning skids–ABS
rolling freely and regaining traction.)
should prevent brake-induced skids or jackknifes,
but not those caused by spinning the drive
Rear wheel braking skids occur when the rear
wheels or going too fast in a turn.
drive wheels lock. Because locked wheels have
ABS won’t necessarily shorten stopping distance. less traction than rolling wheels, the rear wheels
ABS will help maintain vehicle control, but not usually slide sideways in an attempt to "catch up"
always shorten stopping distance. with the front wheels. In a bus or straight truck, the
vehicle will slide sideways in a "spin out." With
ABS won’t increase or decrease ultimate
vehicles towing trailers, a drive-wheel skid can let
stopping power–ABS is an “add-on” to your
the trailer push the towing vehicle sideways,
normal brakes, not a replacement for them.
causing a sudden jackknife. See Figure 2.19.
ABS won’t change the way you normally brake.
Under normal brake conditions, your vehicle will
stop as it always stopped. ABS only comes into
play when a wheel would normally have locked
up because of over braking.
ABS won’t compensate for bad brakes or poor
brake maintenance.
Remember: The best vehicle safety feature is
still a safe driver.
Remember: Drive so you never need to use
your ABS.
Remember: If you need it, ABS could help to
prevent a serious crash.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

When a front-wheel skid occurs, the only way to

stop the skid is to let the vehicle slow down. Stop
turning and/or braking so hard. Slow down as
quickly as possible without skidding.

Subsections 2.17, 2.18, and 2.19

Test Your Knowledge
1. Stopping is not always the safest thing to do
in an emergency. True or False?
2. What are some advantages of going right
instead of left around an obstacle?
3. What is an "escape ramp?"
4. If a tire blows out, you should put the brakes
on hard to stop quickly. True or False?
5. How do you know if your vehicle has antilock
brakes?
6. What is the proper braking technique when
driving a vehicle with antilock brakes?
7. How do antilock brakes help you?

These questions may be on the test. If you can’t

answer them all, re-read subsections 2.17, 2.18,
and 2.19.
Figure 2.19

2.19.2 – Correcting a Drive-wheel Braking 2.20 – Accident Procedures

Skid
When you're in an accident and not seriously hurt,
Do the following to correct a drive-wheel braking you need to act to prevent further damage or
skid. injury. The basic steps to be taken at any accident
are to:
Stop Braking. This will let the rear wheels roll
again, and keep the rear wheels from sliding. Protect the area.
Notify authorities.
Countersteer. As a vehicle turns back on
course, it has a tendency to keep on turning. Care for the injured.
Unless you turn the steering wheel quickly the
other way, you may find yourself skidding in the 2.20.1 – Protect the Area
opposite direction.
The first thing to do at an accident scene is to keep
Learning to stay off the brake, turn the steering another accident from happening in the same spot.
wheel quickly, push in the clutch, and countersteer To protect the accident area:
in a skid takes a lot of practice. The best place to If your vehicle is involved in the accident, try to
get this practice is on a large driving range or "skid get it to the side of the road. This will help
pad." prevent another accident and allow traffic to
move.
2.19.3 – Front-wheel Skids
If you're stopping to help, park away from the
Driving too fast for conditions causes most front- accident. The area immediately around the
wheel skids. Other causes include lack of tread on accident will be needed for emergency vehicles.
the front tires and cargo loaded so not enough Put on your flashers.
weight is on the front axle. In a front-wheel skid,
the front end tends to go in a straight line Set out reflective triangles to warn other traffic.
regardless of how much you turn the steering Make sure other drivers can see them in time to
wheel. On a very slippery surface, you may not be avoid the accident.
able to steer around a curve or turn.

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2.20.2 – Notify Authorities

If you have a cell phone or CB, call for assistance Follow Safe Procedures. Follow correct safety
before you get out of your vehicle. If not, wait until procedures for fueling the vehicle, using brakes,
after the accident scene has been properly handling flares, and other activities that can
protected, then phone or send someone to phone cause a fire.
the police. Try to determine where you are so you
Monitoring. Check the instruments and gauges
can give the exact location.
often for signs of overheating and use the mirrors
to look for signs of smoke from tires or the
2.20.3 – Care for the Injured vehicle.
If a qualified person is at the accident and helping Caution. Use normal caution in handling anything
the injured, stay out of the way unless asked to flammable.
assist. Otherwise, do the best you can to help any
injured parties. Here are some simple steps to 2.21.3 – Fire Fighting
follow in giving assistance:
Knowing how to fight fires is important. Drivers who
Don't move a severely injured person unless the didn’t know what to do have made fires worse.
danger of fire or passing traffic makes it Know how the fire extinguisher works. Study the
necessary. instructions printed on the extinguisher before you
need it. Here are some procedures to follow in
Stop heavy bleeding by applying direct pressure
case of fire.
to the wound.
Keep the injured person warm. Pull Off the Road. The first step is to get the
vehicle off the road and stop. In doing so:
2.21 – Fires Park in an open area, away from buildings, trees,
brush, other vehicles, or anything that might
Truck fires can cause damage and injury. Learn catch fire.
the causes of fires and how to prevent them. Know
what to do to extinguish fires. Don't pull into a service station!
Notify emergency services of your problem and
2.21.1 – Causes of Fire your location.

The following are some causes of vehicle fires: Keep the Fire from Spreading. Before trying to
put out the fire, make sure that it doesn't spread
After Accidents. Spilled fuel, improper use of any further.
flares.
With an engine fire, turn off the engine as soon
Tires. Under-inflated tires and duals that touch.
as you can. Don't open the hood if you can avoid
Electrical System. Short circuits due to damaged it. Shoot foam through louvers, radiator, or from
insulation, loose connections. the vehicle’s underside.
Fuel. Driver smoking, improper fueling, loose fuel For a cargo fire in a van or box trailer, keep the
connections. doors shut, especially if your cargo contains
hazardous materials. Opening the van doors will
Cargo. Flammable cargo, improperly sealed or supply the fire with oxygen and can cause it to
loaded cargo, poor ventilation. burn very fast.

2.21.2 – Fire Prevention Extinguish the Fire. Here are some rules to follow
in putting out a fire:
Pay attention to the following:
When using the extinguisher, stay as far away
Pre-trip Inspection. Make a complete inspection from the fire as possible.
of the electrical, fuel, and exhaust systems, tires,
and cargo. Be sure to check that the fire Aim at the source or base of the fire, not up in the
extinguisher is charged. flames.

En Route Inspection. Check the tires, wheels,

and truck body for signs of heat whenever you
stop during a trip.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Use the Right Fire Extinguisher

Figures 2.20 and 2.21 detail the type of fire Subsections 2.20 and 2.21
extinguisher to use by class of fire. Test Your Knowledge
The B:C type fire extinguisher is designed to
1. What are some things to do at an accident
work on electrical fires and burning liquids.
scene to prevent another accident?
The A:B:C type is designed to work on burning 2. Name two causes of tire fires.
wood, paper, and cloth as well. 3. What kinds of fires is a B:C extinguisher
not good for?
Water can be used on wood, paper, or cloth, but
4. When using your extinguisher, should you
don't use water on an electrical fire (can cause
get as close as possible to the fire?
shock) or a gasoline fire (it will spread the
5. Name some causes of vehicle fires.
flames).
A burning tire must be cooled. Lots of water may These questions may be on the test. If you can't
be required. answer them all, re-read subsections 2.20 and 2.21.
If you're not sure what to use, especially on a
hazardous materials fire, wait for firefighters.
Position yourself upwind. Let the wind carry the
extinguisher to the fire. 2.22 – Alcohol, Other Drugs, and
Continue until whatever was burning has been
Driving
cooled. Absence of smoke or flame does not
mean the fire cannot restart. 2.22.1 – Alcohol and Driving

Drinking alcohol and then driving is very

Class/Type of Fires
dangerous and a serious problem. People who
Class Type
drink alcohol are involved in traffic accidents
A Wood, Paper, Ordinary Combustibles
Extinguish by Cooling and Quenching resulting in over 20,000 deaths every year. Alcohol
Using Water or Dry Chemicals impairs muscle coordination, reaction time, depth
B Gasoline, Oil, Grease, Other Greasy perception, and night vision. It also affects the
Liquids parts of the brain that control judgment and
Extinguish by Smothering, Cooling or inhibition. For some people, one drink is all it takes
Heat Shielding using carbon Dioxide or to show signs of impairment.
Dry Chemicals
C Electrical Equipment Fires How Alcohol Works. Alcohol goes directly into
Extinguish with Nonconducting Agents the blood stream and is carried to the brain. After
such as Carbon Dioxide or Dry
passing through the brain, a small percentage is
Chemicals. DO NOT USE WATER.
removed in urine, perspiration, and by breathing,
D Fires in Combustible Metals
Extinguish by Using Specialized while the rest is carried to the liver. The liver can
Extinguishing Powders only process one-third an ounce of alcohol per
Figure 2.20 hour, which is considerably less than the alcohol in
a standard drink. This is a fixed rate, so only time,
not black coffee or a cold shower, will sober you
Class of Fire/Type of Extinguisher up. If you have drinks faster than your body can
Class of Fire Fire Extinguisher Type get rid of them, you will have more alcohol in your
B or C Regular Dry Chemical body, and your driving will be more affected. The
A, B, C, or D Multi Purpose Dry Chemical Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) commonly
D Purple K Dry Chemical measures the amount of alcohol in your body. See
B or C KCL Dry Chemical Figure 2.22.
D Dry Powder Special
Compound All of the following drinks contain the same amount
B or C Carbon Dioxide (Dry) of alcohol:
B or C Halogenated Agent (Gas)
A 12-ounce glass of 5% beer.
A Water
A Water With Anti-Freeze A 5-ounce glass of 12% wine.
A or B Water, Loaded Steam Style
B, On Some A Foam A 1 1/2-ounce shot of 80 proof liquor.
Figure 2.21

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Figure 2.22
What Determines Blood Alcohol
As BAC continues to build up, muscle control,
Concentration? BAC is determined by the amount
vision, and coordination are affected more and
of alcohol you drink (more alcohol means higher
more. Effects on driving may include:
BAC), how fast you drink (faster drinking means
higher BAC), and your weight (a small person Straddling lanes.
doesn't have to drink as much to reach the same
BAC). Quick, jerky starts.
Alcohol and the Brain. Alcohol affects more and Not signaling, failure to use lights.
more of the brain as BAC builds up. The first part
of the brain affected controls judgment and self- Running stop signs and red lights.
control. One of the bad things about this is it can Improper passing.
keep drinkers from knowing they are getting drunk.
And, of course, good judgment and self-control are See Figure 2.23.
absolutely necessary for safe driving.
Effects Of Increasing
Blood Alcohol Content
What Is a Drink?
It is the alcohol in drinks that affects human Blood Alcohol Content is the amount of alcohol in your
performance. It doesn't make any difference blood recorded in milligrams of alcohol per 100 milliliters
whether that alcohol comes from "a couple of of blood. Your BAC depends on the amount of blood
beers,” or from two glasses of wine, or two shots (which increases with weight) and the amount of alcohol
of hard liquor. Approximate Blood Alcohol you consume over time (how fast you drink). The faster
Content you drink, the higher your BAC, as the liver can only
handle about one drink per hour—the rest builds up in
Effects
Drinks

your blood.
Body Weight in Pounds
Effects on Driving
BAC Effects on Body
Condition
100

120

140

160

180

200

220

240

Mellow feeling, slight

.02 Less inhibited.
body warmth.
Driving Limit

Less alert, less self-

Only Safe Impairment Driving Skills Significantly Affected

0 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .05 Noticeable relaxation. focused, coordination
impairment begins.
Definite impairment in Drunk driving limit,
.08 coordination & impaired coordination
judgment . & judgment.
Begins

1 .04 .03 .03 .02 .02 .02 .02 .02 Noisy, possible
Reduction in reaction
.10* embarrassing behavior,
time.
mood swings.
Impaired balance &
2 .08 .06 .05 .05 .04 .04 .03 .03 .15 movement, clearly Unable to drive.
drunk.
Criminal Penalties

3 .11 .09 .08 .07 .06 .06 .05 .05 Many lose
.30
consciousness.
Most lose
4 .15 .12 .11 .09 .08 .08 .07 .06
.40 consciousness, some
die.
5 .19 .16 .13 .12 .11 .09 .09 .08 Breathing stops, many
.50
die.
6 .23 .19 .16 .14 .13 .11 .10 .09 BAC of .10 means that 1/10 of 1 % (or 1/1000) of your
total blood content is alcohol.
7 .26 .22 .19 .16 .15 .13 .12 .11 Figure 2.23
Legally Intoxicated
Criminal Penalties

These effects mean increased chances of a crash

8 .30 .25 .21 .19 .17 .15 .14 .13
and chances of losing your driver's license.
Accident statistics show that the chance of a crash
9 .34 .28 .24 .21 .19 .17 .15 .14
is much greater for drivers who have been drinking
than for drivers who have not.
10 .38 .31 .27 .23 .21 .19 .17 .16

Subtract .01% for each 40 minutes of drinking. One

How Alcohol Affects Driving. All drivers are
drink is 1.5 oz. of 80 proof liquor, 12 oz. of beer, or 5 affected by drinking alcohol. Alcohol affects
oz. of table wine.
Figure 2.22

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

judgment, vision, coordination, and reaction time. It it won’t go away by itself. The average person
causes serious driving errors, such as: needs seven or eight hours of sleep every 24
hours. Leaving on a long trip when you're already
Increased reaction time to hazards.
tired is dangerous. If you have a long trip
Driving too fast or too slow. scheduled, make sure that you get enough sleep
before you go.
Driving in the wrong lane.
Running over the curb. Schedule Trips Safely. Try to arrange your
schedule so you are not in “sleep debt” before a
Weaving. long trip. Your body gets used to sleeping during
certain hours. If you are driving during those hours,
2.22.2 – Other Drugs you will be less alert. If possible, try to schedule
trips for the hours you are normally awake. Many
Besides alcohol, other legal and illegal drugs are heavy motor vehicle accidents occur between
being used more often. Laws prohibit possession midnight and 6 a.m. Tired drivers can easily fall
or use of many drugs while on duty. They prohibit asleep at these times, especially if they don't
being under the influence of any "controlled regularly drive at those hours. Trying to push on
substance," amphetamines (including "pep pills," and finish a long trip at these times can be very
“uppers,” and "bennies"), narcotics, or any other dangerous.
substance, which can make the driver unsafe. This
could include a variety of prescription and over- Exercise Regularly. Resistance to fatigue and
the-counter drugs (cold medicines), which may improved sleep are among the benefits of regular
make the driver drowsy or otherwise affect safe exercise. Try to incorporate exercise into your daily
driving ability. However, possession and use of a life. Instead of sitting and watching TV in your
drug given to a driver by a doctor is permitted if the sleeper, walk or jog a few laps around the parking
doctor informs the driver that it will not affect safe lot. A little bit of daily exercise will give you energy
driving ability. throughout the day.

Pay attention to warning labels for legitimate drugs Eat Healthy. It is often hard for drivers to find
and medicines, and to doctor's orders regarding healthy food. But with a little extra effort, you can
possible effects. Stay away from illegal drugs. eat healthy, even on the road. Try to find
restaurants with healthy, balanced meals. If you
Don't use any drug that hides fatigue--the only cure must eat at fast-food restaurants, pick low-fat
for fatigue is rest. Alcohol can make the effects of items. Another simple way to reduce your caloric
other drugs much worse. The safest rule is don't intake is to eliminate fattening snacks. Instead, try
mix drugs with driving at all. fruit or vegetables.

Use of drugs can lead to traffic accidents resulting Avoid Medication. Many medicines can make you
in death, injury, and property damage. sleepy. Those that do have a label warning against
Furthermore, it can lead to arrest, fines, and jail operating vehicles or machinery. The most
sentences. It can also mean the end of a person's common medicine of this type is an ordinary cold
driving career. pill. If you have to drive with a cold, you are better
off suffering from the cold than from the effects of
the medicine.
2.23 – Staying Alert and Fit to Drive
Visit Your Doctor. Regular checkups literally can
Driving a vehicle for long hours is tiring. Even the be lifesavers. Illnesses such as diabetes, heart
best of drivers will become less alert. However, disease, and skin and colon cancer can be
there are things that good drivers do to help stay detected easily and treated if found in time.
alert and safe. You should consult your physician or a local sleep
disorder center if you suffer from frequent daytime
2.23.1 – Be Ready to Drive sleepiness, have difficulty sleeping at night, take
frequent naps, fall asleep at strange times, snore
Get Enough Sleep. Sleep is not like money. You loudly, gasp and choke in your sleep, and/or wake
can’t save it up ahead of time and you can’t borrow up feeling as though you have not had enough
it. But, just as with money, you can go into debt sleep.
with it. If you don’t sleep enough, you “owe” more
sleep to yourself. This debt can only be paid off by
sleeping. You can’t overcome it with willpower, and

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

2.23.2 – While You Are Driving Take a Nap. If you can't stop for the night, at least
pull off at a safe place, such as a rest area or truck
Keep Cool. A hot, poorly ventilated vehicle can stop, and take a nap. A nap as short as a half-hour
make you sleepy. Keep the window or vent will do more to overcome fatigue than a half-hour
cracked open or use the air conditioner, if you coffee stop.
have one.
Take Breaks. Short breaks can keep you alert. But Avoid Drugs. There are no drugs that can
the time to take them is before you feel really overcome being tired. While they may keep you
drowsy or tired. Stop often. Walk around and awake for a while, they won't make you alert. And
inspect your vehicle. It may help to do some eventually, you'll be even more tired than if you
physical exercises. hadn't taken them at all. Sleep is the only thing that
can overcome fatigue.
Be sure to take a mid-afternoon break and plan to
sleep between midnight and 6 a.m. Do Not. Do not rely on coffee or another source of
caffeine to keep you awake. Do not count on the
Recognize the Danger Signals of Drowsy
radio, an open window, or other tricks to keep you
Driving. Sleep is not voluntary. If you’re drowsy,
awake.
you can fall asleep and never even know it. If you
are drowsy, you are likely to have “micro sleeps”–
brief naps that last around four or five seconds. At
2.23.4 – Illness
55 miles an hour, that’s more than 100 yards, and
plenty of time for a crash. Even if you are not Once in a while, you may become so ill that you
aware of being drowsy, if you have a sleep debt cannot operate a motor vehicle safely. If this
happens to you, you must not drive. However, in
you are still at risk. Here are a few ways to tell if
case of an emergency, you may drive to the
you’re about to fall asleep. If you experience any of
nearest place where you can safely stop.
these danger signs, take them as a warning that
you could fall asleep without meaning to.
Your eyes close or go out of focus by
themselves.
You have trouble keeping your head up.
You can’t stop yawning.
You have wandering, disconnected thoughts.
You don’t remember driving the last few miles.
You drift between lanes, tailgate, or miss traffic
signs.
You keep jerking the truck back into the lane.
You have drifted off the road and narrowly
missed crashing.
If you have even one of these symptoms, you may
be in danger of falling asleep. Pull off the road in a
safe place and take a nap.
2.24 – Hazardous Materials Rules For
2.23.3 – When You Do Become Sleepy All Commercial Drivers

When you are sleepy, trying to "push on" is far All drivers should know something about
more dangerous than most drivers think. It is a hazardous materials. You must be able to
major cause of fatal accidents. Here are some recognize hazardous cargo, and you must know
important rules to follow. whether or not you can haul it without having a
hazardous materials endorsement on your CDL
Stop to Sleep. When your body needs sleep, license.
sleep is the only thing that will work. If you have to
make a stop anyway, make it whenever you feel 2.24.1 – What Are Hazardous Materials?
the first signs of sleepiness, even if it is earlier than
you planned. By getting up a little earlier the next Hazardous materials are products that pose a risk
day, you can keep on schedule without the danger to health, safety, and property during
of driving while you are not alert. transportation. See Figure 2.24.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

2.24.3 – Lists of Regulated Products

Hazard Class Definitions Placards are used to warn others of hazardous
Class Class Name Example materials. Placards are signs put on the outside of
Ammunition,
1 Explosives Dynamite, Fireworks a vehicle that identify the hazard class of the
Propane, Oxygen, cargo. A placarded vehicle must have at least four
2 Gases Helium identical placards. They are put on the front, rear,
Gasoline Fuel,
3 Flammable Acetone and both sides. Placards must be readable from all
4 Flammable Solids Matches, Fuses four directions. They must be at least 10 3/4 inches
Ammonium Nitrate, square, turned upright on a point, in a diamond
5 Oxidizers Hydrogen Peroxide shape. Cargo tanks and other bulk packaging
6 Poisons Pesticides, Arsenic display the identification number of their contents
7 Radioactive Uranium, Plutonium on placards or orange panels.
Hydrochloric Acid,
8 Corrosives Identification Numbers are a four digit code used
Battery Acid
Miscellaneous Formaldehyde, by first responders to identify hazardous materials.
9
Hazardous Materials Asbestos An identification number may be used to identify
ORM-D more than one chemical on shipping papers. The
None (Other Regulated Hair Spray or
Charcoal identification number will be preceded by the
Material- Domestic)
letters “NA” or “UN”. The US DOT Emergency
None Combustible Liquids Fuel Oils, Lighter Fluid
Response Guidebook (ERG) lists the chemicals
Figure 2.24 and the identification numbers assigned to them.
2.24.2 – Why Are There Rules? Not all vehicles carrying hazardous materials need
to have placards. The rules about placards are
You must follow the many rules about transporting given in Section 9 of this manual. You can drive a
hazardous materials. The intent of the rules is to: vehicle that carries hazardous materials if it does
Contain the product. not require placards. If it requires placards, you
cannot drive it unless your driver license has the
Communicate the risk. hazardous materials endorsement. See Figure
Ensure safe drivers and equipment. 2.25.
The rules require all drivers of placarded vehicles
To Contain the Product. Many hazardous
to learn how to safely load and transport
products can injure or kill on contact. To protect
hazardous products. They must have a commercial
drivers and others from contact, the rules tell
driver license with the hazardous materials
shippers how to package safely. Similar rules tell
endorsement. To get the required endorsement,
drivers how to load, transport, and unload bulk
you must pass a written test on material found in
tanks. These are containment rules.
Section 9 of this manual. A tank endorsement is
required for certain vehicles that transport liquids
To Communicate the Risk. The shipper uses a
or gases. The liquid or gas does not have to be a
shipping paper and diamond shaped hazard labels
hazardous material. A tank endorsement is only
to warn dockworkers and drivers of the risk.
required if your vehicle needs a Class A or B CDL
and your vehicle has a permanently mounted
After an accident or hazardous material spill or
cargo tank of any capacity; or your vehicle is
leak, you may be injured and unable to
carrying a portable tank with a capacity of 1,000
communicate the hazards of the materials you are
gallons or more.
transporting. Firefighters and police can prevent or
reduce the amount of damage or injury at the Drivers who need the hazardous materials
scene if they know what hazardous materials are endorsement must learn the placard rules. If you
being transported. Your life, and the lives of others, do not know if your vehicle needs placards, ask
may depend on quickly locating the hazardous your employer. Never drive a vehicle needing
materials shipping papers. For that reason, you placards unless you have the hazardous materials
must identify shipping papers related to hazardous endorsement. To do so is a crime. When stopped,
materials or keep them on top of other shipping you will be cited and you will not be allowed to
papers. You must also keep shipping papers: drive your truck.. It will cost you time and money.
In a pouch on the driver's door, or A failure to placard when needed may risk your life
and others if you have an accident. Emergency
In clear view within reach while driving, or help will not know of your hazardous cargo.
On the driver's seat when out of the vehicle.

Section 2 – Driving Safely Page 2-42

2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Figure 2.25
Hazardous materials drivers must also know which
products they can load together, and which they
cannot. These rules are also in Section 9. Before
loading a truck with more than one type of product,
you must know if it is safe to load them together. If
you do not know, ask your employer and consult
the regulations.
Subsections 2.22, 2.23, and 2.24
Test Your Knowledge
1. Common medicines for colds can make
you sleepy. True or False?
2. What should you do if you become sleepy
while driving?
3. Coffee and a little fresh air will help a
drinker sober up. True or False?
4. What is a hazardous materials placard?
5. Why are placards used?
6. What is “sleep debt”?
7. What are the danger signals of drowsy
driving?
These questions may be on the test. If you can't
answer them all, re-read subsections 2.22, 2.23,
and 2.24.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Re-check. Re-check the cargo and securing

Section 3 devices as often as necessary during a trip to keep
TRANSPORTING CARGO the load secure. You need to inspect again:
After you have driven for 3 hours or 150 miles.
SAFELY
After every break you take during driving.
This Section Covers Federal, state, and local regulations for commercial
vehicle weight, securing cargo, covering loads, and
where you can drive large vehicles vary from place
• Inspecting Cargo to place. Know the rules where you will be driving.
• Cargo Weight and Balance
• Securing Cargo
• Cargo Needing Special Attention 3.2 – Weight and Balance

This section tells you about hauling cargo safely. You are responsible for not being overloaded. The
You must understand basic cargo safety rules to following are some definitions of weight you should
get a CDL. know.

If you load cargo wrong or do not secure it, it can 3.2.1 – Definitions You Should Know
be a danger to others and yourself. Loose cargo
that falls off a vehicle can cause traffic problems Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW). The total weight of
and others could be hurt or killed. Loose cargo a single vehicle plus its load.
could hurt or kill you during a quick stop or crash.
Your vehicle could be damaged by an overload. Gross Combination Weight (GCW). The total
Steering could be affected by how a vehicle is weight of a powered unit, plus trailer(s), plus the
loaded, making it more difficult to control the cargo.
vehicle.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The
Whether or not you load and secure the cargo maximum GVW specified by the manufacturer for a
yourself, you are responsible for: single vehicle plus its load.
Inspecting your cargo. Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR).
Recognizing overloads and poorly balanced The maximum GCW specified by the manufacturer
weight. for a specific combination of vehicles plus its load.
Knowing your cargo is properly secured and does Axle Weight. The weight transmitted to the ground
not obscure your view ahead or to the sides. by one axle or one set of axles.
Knowing your cargo does not restrict your access
to emergency equipment. Tire Load. The maximum safe weight a tire can
carry at a specified pressure. This rating is stated
If you intend to carry hazardous material that on the side of each tire.
requires placards on your vehicle, you will also
need to have a hazardous materials endorsement. Suspension Systems. Suspension systems have
Section 9 of this manual has the information you a manufacturer's weight capacity rating.
need to pass the hazardous materials test.
Coupling Device Capacity. Coupling devices are
rated for the maximum weight they can pull and/or
3.1 – Inspecting Cargo carry.

As part of your pre-trip inspection, make sure the 3.2.2 – Legal Weight Limits
truck is not overloaded and the cargo is balanced
and secured properly. You must keep weights within legal limits. States
have maximums for GVWs, GCWs, and axle
After Starting. Inspect the cargo and its securing weights. Often, maximum axle weights are set by a
devices again within the first 50 miles after bridge formula. A bridge formula permits less
beginning a trip. Make any adjustments needed. maximum axle weight for axles that are closer

Section 3 - Transporting Cargo Safely Page 3-1

2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

together. This is to prevent overloading bridges

and roadways.
Overloading can have bad effects on steering,
braking, and speed control. Overloaded trucks
have to go very slowly on upgrades. Worse, they
may gain too much speed on downgrades.
Stopping distance increases. Brakes can fail when
forced to work too hard.

During bad weather or in mountains, it may not be

safe to operate at legal maximum weights. Take
this into account before driving.

3.2.3 – Don't Be Top-heavy

The height of the vehicle's center of gravity is very

important for safe handling. A high center of gravity
(cargo piled up high or heavy cargo on top) means
you are more likely to tip over. It is most dangerous
in curves, or if you have to swerve to avoid a
hazard. It is very important to distribute the cargo
so it is as low as possible. Put the heaviest parts of
the cargo under the lightest parts.

3.2.4 – Balance the Weight Figure 3.1

Poor weight balance can make vehicle handling 3.3.2 – Cargo Tiedown
unsafe. Too much weight on the steering axle can
cause hard steering. It can damage the steering On flatbed trailers or trailers without sides, cargo
axle and tires. Under-loaded front axles (caused by must be secured to keep it from shifting or falling
shifting weight too far to the rear) can make the off. In closed vans, tiedowns can also be important
steering axle weight too light to steer safely. Too to prevent cargo shifting that may affect the
little weight on the driving axles can cause poor handling of the vehicle. Tiedowns must be of the
traction. The drive wheels may spin easily. During proper type and proper strength. Federal
bad weather, the truck may not be able to keep regulations require the aggregate working load
going. Weight that is loaded so there is a high limit of any securement system used to secure an
center of gravity causes greater chance of rollover. article or group of articles against movement must
On flat bed vehicles, there is also a greater chance be at least one-half times the weight of the article
that the load will shift to the side or fall off. See or group of articles. Proper tiedown equipment
Figure 3.1. must be used, including ropes, straps, chains, and
tensioning devices (winches, ratchets, clinching
components). Tiedowns must be attached to the
vehicle correctly (hooks, bolts, rails, rings). See
3.3 – Securing Cargo figure 3.2.
3.3.1 – Blocking and Bracing

Blocking is used in the front, back, and/or sides of

a piece of cargo to keep it from sliding. Blocking is
shaped to fit snugly against cargo. It is secured to
the cargo deck to prevent cargo movement.
Bracing is also used to prevent movement of
cargo. Bracing goes from the upper part of the
cargo to the floor and/or walls of the cargo
compartment.

Figure 3.2

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Cargo should have at least one tiedown for each 3.4.2 – Hanging Meat
ten feet of cargo. Make sure you have enough
tiedowns to meet this need. No matter how small Hanging meat (suspended beef, pork, lamb) in a
the cargo, it should have at least two tiedowns. refrigerated truck can be a very unstable load with
a high center of gravity. Particular caution is
There are special requirements for securing needed on sharp curves such as off ramps and on
various heavy pieces of metal. Find out what they ramps. Go slowly.
are if you are to carry such loads.
3.4.3 – Livestock
3.3.3 – Header Boards
Livestock can move around in a trailer, causing
Front-end header boards ("headache racks") unsafe handling. With less than a full load, use
protect you from your cargo in case of a crash or false bulkheads to keep livestock bunched
emergency stop. Make sure the front-end structure together. Even when bunched, special care is
is in good condition. The front-end structure should necessary because livestock can lean on curves.
block the forward movement of any cargo you This shifts the center of gravity and makes rollover
carry. more likely.

3.3.4 – Covering Cargo 3.4.4 – Oversized Loads

There are two basic reasons for covering cargo: Over-length, over-width, and/or overweight loads
To protect people from spilled cargo. require special transit permits. Driving is usually
limited to certain times. Special equipment may be
To protect the cargo from weather. necessary such as "wide load" signs, flashing
lights, flags, etc. Such loads may require a police
Spill protection is a safety requirement in many escort or pilot vehicles bearing warning signs
states. Be familiar with the laws in the states you and/or flashing lights. These special loads require
drive in. special driving care.

You should look at your cargo covers in the mirrors

from time to time while driving. A flapping cover
can tear loose, uncovering the cargo, and possibly Section 3
block your view or someone else's. Test Your Knowledge
3.3.5 – Sealed and Containerized Loads 1. What four things related to cargo are
drivers responsible for?
Containerized loads generally are used when 2. How often must you stop while on the road
freight is carried part way by rail or ship. Delivery to check your cargo?
by truck occurs at the beginning and/or end of the 3. How is Gross Combination Weight Rating
journey. Some containers have their own tiedown different from Gross Combination Weight?
devices or locks that attach directly to a special 4. Name two situations where legal maximum
frame. Others have to be loaded onto flat bed weights may not be safe.
trailers. They must be properly secured just like 5. What can happen if you don't have enough
any other cargo. weight on the front axle?
6. What is the minimum number of tiedowns
You cannot inspect sealed loads, but you should for any flat bed load?
check that you don't exceed gross weight and axle 7. What is the minimum number of tiedowns
weight limits. for a 20-foot load?
8. Name the two basic reasons for covering
cargo on an open bed.
3.4 – Cargo Needing Special Attention 9. What must you check before transporting a
sealed load?
3.4.1 – Dry Bulk
These questions may be on your test. If you can't
Dry bulk tanks require special care because they answer them all, re-read Section 3.
have a high center of gravity, and the load can
shift. Be extremely cautious (slow and careful)
going around curves and making sharp turns.

Section 3 - Transporting Cargo Safely Page 3-3

2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Coupling devices (if present).

Section 4
Wheels and rims.
TRANSPORTING Emergency equipment.
PASSENGERS SAFELY
4.1.2 – Access Doors and Panels
This Section Covers
As you check the outside of the bus, close any
open emergency exits. Also, close any open
• Vehicle Inspection access panels (for baggage, restroom service,
• Loading engine, etc.) before driving.
• On the Road
• After-trip Vehicle Inspection 4.1.3 – Bus Interior
• Prohibited Practices
People sometimes damage unattended buses.
• Use of Brake-door Interlocks Always check the interior of the bus before driving
to ensure rider safety. Aisles and stairwells should
Bus drivers must have a commercial driver license always be clear. The following parts of your bus
if they drive a vehicle designed to seat 16 or more must be in safe working condition:
persons, including the driver.
Each handhold and railing.
Bus drivers must have a passenger endorsement
Floor covering.
on their commercial driver license. To get the
endorsement you must pass a knowledge test on Signaling devices, including the restroom
Sections 2 and 4 of this manual. (If your bus has emergency buzzer, if the bus has a restroom.
air brakes, you must also pass a knowledge test on
Emergency exit handles.
Section 5.) You must also pass the skills tests
required for the class of vehicle you drive.
The seats must be safe for riders. All seats must
be securely fastened to the bus.
4.1 – Vehicle Inspection Never drive with an open emergency exit door or
window. The "Emergency Exit" sign on an
Before driving your bus, you must be sure it is emergency door must be clearly visible. If there is
safe. You must review the inspection report made a red emergency door light, it must work. Turn it on
by the previous driver. Only if defects reported at night or any other time you use your outside
earlier have been certified as repaired or not lights.
needed to be repaired, should you sign the
previous driver's report. This is your certification 4.1.4 – Roof Hatches
that the defects reported earlier have been fixed.
You may lock some emergency roof hatches in a
4.1.1 – Vehicle Systems partly open position for fresh air. Do not leave
them open as a regular practice. Keep in mind the
Make sure these things are in good working order bus's higher clearance while driving with them
before driving: open.
Service brakes, including air hose couplings (if
your bus has a trailer or semitrailer). Make sure your bus has the fire extinguisher and
emergency reflectors required by law. The bus
Parking brake. must also have spare electrical fuses, unless
Steering mechanism. equipped with circuit breakers.

Lights and reflectors. 4.1.5 – Use Your Seatbelt!

Tires (front wheels must not have recapped or
regrooved tires). The driver's seat should have a seat belt. Always
use it for safety.
Horn.
Windshield washer and wipers.
Rear-vision mirror or mirrors.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

4.2 – Loading and Trip Start

Do not allow riders to leave carry-on baggage in a
doorway or aisle. There should be nothing in the 4.2.2 – Forbidden Hazardous Materials
aisle that might trip other riders. Secure baggage
and freight in ways that avoid damage and: Buses may carry small-arms ammunition labeled
ORM-D, emergency hospital supplies, and drugs.
Allow the driver to move freely and easily. You can carry small amounts of some other
Allow riders to exit by any window or door in an hazardous materials if the shipper cannot send
emergency. them any other way. Buses must never carry:

Protect riders from injury if carry-ons fall or shift. Division 2.3 poison gas, liquid Class 6 poison,
tear gas, irritating material.
4.2.1 – Hazardous Materials More than 100 pounds of solid Class 6 poisons.

Watch for cargo or baggage containing hazardous Explosives in the space occupied by people,
materials. Most hazardous materials cannot be except small arms ammunition.
carried on a bus. Labeled radioactive materials in the space
occupied by people.
The Federal Hazardous Materials Table shows
which materials are hazardous. They pose a risk to More than 500 pounds total of allowed hazardous
health, safety, and property during transportation. materials, and no more than 100 pounds of any
The rules require shippers to mark containers of one class.
hazardous material with the material's name,
identification number, and hazard label. There are Riders sometimes board a bus with an unlabeled
nine different four-inch, diamond-shaped hazard hazardous material. Do not allow riders to carry on
labels. See Figure 4.1. Watch for the diamond- common hazards such as car batteries or gasoline.
shaped labels. Do not transport any hazardous
material unless you are sure the rules allow it. 4.2.3 – Standee Line

Hazard Class Definitions No rider may stand forward of the rear of the
Class Class Name Example driver's seat. Buses designed to allow standing
Ammunition, must have a two-inch line on the floor or some
1 Explosives Dynamite, other means of showing riders where they cannot
Fireworks stand. This is called the standee line. All standing
Propane, Oxygen, riders must stay behind it.
2 Gases
Helium
Gasoline Fuel, 4.2.4 – At Your Destination
3 Flammable
Acetone
Flammable When arriving at the destination or intermediate
4 Matches, Fuses stops announce:
Solids
Ammonium The location.
5 Oxidizers Nitrate, Hydrogen
Peroxide Reason for stopping.
Pesticides, Next departure time.
6 Poisons
Arsenic
Uranium, Bus number.
7 Radioactive
Plutonium
Hydrochloric Acid, Remind riders to take carry-ons with them if they
8 Corrosives get off the bus. If the aisle is on a lower level than
Battery Acid
Miscellaneous the seats, remind riders of the step-down. It is best
Formaldehyde, to tell them before coming to a complete stop.
9 Hazardous
Asbestos
Materials
ORM-D (Other Charter bus drivers should not allow riders on the
Regulated Hair Spray or bus until departure time. This will help prevent theft
None or vandalism of the bus.
Material- Charcoal
Domestic)
Combustible Fuel Oils, Lighter
None
Liquids Fluid
Figure 4.1
Section 4 - Transporting Passengers Safely Page 4-2
2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

4.3 – On the Road If your bus leans toward the outside on a banked
curve, you are driving too fast.
4.3.1 – Passenger Supervision
4.3.5 – Railroad-highway Crossings Stops
Many charter and intercity carriers have passenger
comfort and safety rules. Mention rules about Stop at RR Crossings:
smoking, drinking, or use of radio and tape players Stop your bus between 15 and 50 feet before
at the start of the trip. Explaining the rules at the railroad crossings.
start will help to avoid trouble later on.
Listen and look in both directions for trains. You
While driving, scan the interior of your bus as well should open your forward door if it improves your
as the road ahead, to the sides, and to the rear. ability to see or hear an approaching train.
You may have to remind riders about rules, or to Before crossing after a train has passed, make
keep arms and heads inside the bus. sure there isn't another train coming in the other
direction on other tracks.
4.3.2 – At Stops
If your bus has a manual transmission, never
Riders can stumble when getting on or off, and change gears while crossing the tracks.
when the bus starts or stops. Caution riders to You do not have to stop, but must slow down and
watch their step when leaving the bus. Wait for carefully check for other vehicles:
them to sit down or brace themselves before
starting. Starting and stopping should be as • At streetcar crossings.
smooth as possible to avoid rider injury. • Where a policeman or flagman is directing
traffic.
• If a traffic signal is green.
Occasionally, you may have a drunk or disruptive
• At crossings marked as "exempt" or
rider. You must ensure this rider's safety as well as
"abandoned."
that of others. Don't discharge such riders where it
would be unsafe for them. It may be safer at the
next scheduled stop or a well-lighted area where 4.3.6 – Drawbridges
there are other people. Many carriers have
guidelines for handling disruptive riders. Stop at Drawbridges. Stop at drawbridges that do
not have a signal light or traffic control attendant.
4.3.3 – Common Accidents Stop at least 50 feet before the draw of the bridge.
Look to make sure the draw is completely closed
before crossing. You do not need to stop, but must
The Most Common Bus Accidents. Bus
slow down and make sure it's safe, when:
accidents often happen at intersections. Use
caution, even if a signal or stop sign controls other There is a traffic light showing green.
traffic. School and mass transit buses sometimes
scrape off mirrors or hit passing vehicles when The bridge has an attendant or traffic officer who
pulling out from a bus stop. Remember the controls traffic whenever the bridge opens.
clearance your bus needs, and watch for poles and
tree limbs at stops. Know the size of the gap your
bus needs to accelerate and merge with traffic. 4.4 – After-trip Vehicle Inspection
Wait for the gap to open before leaving the stop.
Never assume other drivers will brake to give you Inspect your bus at the end of each shift. If you
room when you signal or start to pull out. work for an interstate carrier, you must complete a
written inspection report for each bus driven. The
report must specify each bus and list any defect
4.3.4 – Speed on Curves
that would affect safety or result in a breakdown. If
there are no defects, the report should say so.
Crashes on curves that kill people and destroy
buses result from excessive speed, often when
Riders sometimes damage safety-related parts
rain or snow has made the road slippery. Every
such as handholds, seats, emergency exits, and
banked curve has a safe "design speed." In good
windows. If you report this damage at the end of a
weather, the posted speed is safe for cars but it
shift, mechanics can make repairs before the bus
may be too high for many buses. With good
goes out again. Mass transit drivers should also
traction, the bus may roll over; with poor traction, it
make sure passenger signaling devices and brake-
might slide off the curve. Reduce speed for curves!
door interlocks work properly.

Section 4 - Transporting Passengers Safely Page 4-3

2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

4.5 – Prohibited Practices

Avoid fueling your bus with riders on board unless
absolutely necessary. Never refuel in a closed
building with riders on board.

Don't talk with riders, or engage in any other

distracting activity, while driving.

Do not tow or push a disabled bus with riders

aboard the vehicle, unless getting off would be
unsafe. Only tow or push the bus to the nearest
safe spot to discharge passengers. Follow your
employer's guidelines on towing or pushing
disabled buses.

4.6 – Use of Brake-door Interlocks

Urban mass transit coaches may have a brake and
accelerator interlock system. The interlock applies
the brakes and holds the throttle in idle position
when the rear door is open. The interlock releases
when you close the rear door. Do not use this
safety feature in place of the parking brake.

Section 4
Test Your Knowledge
1. Name some things to check in the interior
of a bus during a pre-trip inspection.
2. What are some hazardous materials you
can transport by bus?
3. What are some hazardous materials you
can’t transport by bus?
4. What is a standee line?
5. Does it matter where you make a
disruptive passenger get off the bus?
6. How far from a railroad crossing should
you stop?
7. When must you stop before crossing a
drawbridge?
8. Describe from memory the “prohibited
practices” listed in the manual.
9. The rear door of a transit bus has to be
open to put on the parking brake. True or
False?

These questions may be on your test. If you can’t

answer them all, re-read Section 4.

Section 4 - Transporting Passengers Safely Page 4-4

2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

5.1.2 – Air Compressor Governor

Section 5
The governor controls when the air compressor will
AIR BRAKES pump air into the air storage tanks. When air tank
pressure rises to the "cut-out" level (around 125
This Section Covers pounds per-square-inch or "psi"), the governor
stops the compressor from pumping air. When the
• Air Brake System Parts tank pressure falls to the "cut-in" pressure (around
100 psi), the governor allows the compressor to
• Dual Air Brake Systems start pumping again.
• Inspecting Air Brakes
• Using Air Brakes 5.1.3 – Air Storage Tanks

This section tells you about air brakes. If you want Air storage tanks are used to hold compressed air.
to drive a truck or bus with air brakes, or pull a The number and size of air tanks varies among
trailer with air brakes, you need to read this vehicles. The tanks will hold enough air to allow
section. If you want to pull a trailer with air brakes, the brakes to be used several times, even if the
you also need to read Section 6, Combination compressor stops working.
Vehicles.
5.1.4 – Air Tank Drains
Air brakes use compressed air to make the brakes Compressed air usually has some water and some
work. Air brakes are a good and safe way of compressor oil in it, which is bad for the air brake
stopping large and heavy vehicles, but the brakes system. For example, the water can freeze in cold
must be well maintained and used properly. weather and cause brake failure. The water and oil
tend to collect in the bottom of the air tank. Be sure
Air brakes are really three different braking that you drain the air tanks completely. Each air
systems: service brake, parking brake, and tank is equipped with a drain valve in the bottom.
emergency brake. There are two types:
The service brake system applies and releases Manually operated by turning a quarter turn or by
the brakes when you use the brake pedal during pulling a cable. You must drain the tanks yourself
normal driving. at the end of each day of driving. See Figure 5.1.
The parking brake system applies and releases Automatic--the water and oil are automatically
the parking brakes when you use the parking expelled. These tanks may be equipped for
brake control. manual draining as well.
The emergency brake system uses parts of the
service and parking brake systems to stop the Automatic air tanks are available with electric
vehicle in a brake system failure. heating devices. These help prevent freezing of
the automatic drain in cold weather.
The parts of these systems are discussed in
greater detail below.

5.1 – The Parts of an Air Brake System

There are many parts to an air brake system. You
should know about the parts discussed here.

5.1.1 – Air Compressor

The air compressor pumps air into the air storage

tanks (reservoirs). The air compressor is
connected to the engine through gears or a v-belt.
The compressor may be air cooled or may be
cooled by the engine cooling system. It may have Figure 5.1
its own oil supply or be lubricated by engine oil. If
the compressor has its own oil supply, check the
oil level before driving.

Section 5 – Air Brakes Page 5-1

2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

5.1.5 – Alcohol Evaporator pushes the rod out, moving the slack adjuster, thus
twisting the brake camshaft. This turns the s-cam
Some air brake systems have an alcohol (so called because it is shaped like the letter "S").
evaporator to put alcohol into the air system. This The s-cam forces the brake shoes away from one
helps to reduce the risk of ice in air brake valves another and presses them against the inside of the
and other parts during cold weather. Ice inside the brake drum. When you release the brake pedal,
system can make the brakes stop working. the s-cam rotates back and a spring pulls the brake
shoes away from the drum, letting the wheels roll
Check the alcohol container and fill up as freely again. See Figure 5.2.
necessary, every day during cold weather. Daily air
tank drainage is still needed to get rid of water and
oil. (Unless the system has automatic drain
valves.)

5.1.6 – Safety Valve

A safety relief valve is installed in the first tank the

air compressor pumps air to. The safety valve
protects the tank and the rest of the system from
too much pressure. The valve is usually set to
open at 150 psi. If the safety valve releases air,
something is wrong. Have the fault fixed by a
mechanic.

5.1.7 – The Brake Pedal

You put on the brakes by pushing down the brake

pedal. (It is also called the foot valve or treadle
valve.) Pushing the pedal down harder applies Figure 5.2
more air pressure. Letting up on the brake pedal
reduces the air pressure and releases the brakes. Wedge Brakes. In this type of brake, the brake
Releasing the brakes lets some compressed air go chamber push rod pushes a wedge directly
out of the system, so the air pressure in the tanks between the ends of two brake shoes. This shoves
is reduced. It must be made up by the air them apart and against the inside of the brake
compressor. Pressing and releasing the pedal drum. Wedge brakes may have a single brake
unnecessarily can let air out faster than the chamber, or two brake chambers, pushing wedges
compressor can replace it. If the pressure gets too in at both ends of the brake shoes. Wedge type
low, the brakes won't work. brakes may be self-adjusting or may require
manual adjustment.
5.1.8 – Foundation Brakes
Disc Brakes. In air-operated disc brakes, air
pressure acts on a brake chamber and slack
Foundation brakes are used at each wheel. The
most common type is the s-cam drum brake. The adjuster, like s-cam brakes. But instead of the s-
parts of the brake are discussed below. cam, a "power screw" is used. The pressure of the
brake chamber on the slack adjuster turns the
Brake Drums, Shoes, and Linings. Brake drums power screw. The power screw clamps the disc or
are located on each end of the vehicle's axles. The rotor between the brake lining pads of a caliper,
wheels are bolted to the drums. The braking similar to a large c-clamp.
mechanism is inside the drum. To stop, the brake
shoes and linings are pushed against the inside of Wedge brakes and disc brakes are less common
the drum. This causes friction, which slows the than s-cam brakes.
vehicle (and creates heat). The heat a drum can
take without damage depends on how hard and 5.1.9 – Supply Pressure Gauges
how long the brakes are used. Too much heat can
make the brakes stop working. All vehicles with air brakes have a pressure gauge
connected to the air tank. If the vehicle has a dual
S-cam Brakes. When you push the brake pedal, air brake system, there will be a gauge for each
air is let into each brake chamber. Air pressure half of the system. (Or a single gauge with two

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

needles.) Dual systems will be discussed later. all conditions. Tests have shown front wheel skids
These gauges tell you how much pressure is in the from braking are not likely even on ice. Make sure
air tanks. the control is in the "normal" position to have
normal stopping power.
5.1.10 – Application Pressure Gauge
Many vehicles have automatic front wheel limiting
This gauge shows how much air pressure you are valves. They reduce the air to the front brakes
applying to the brakes. (This gauge is not on all except when the brakes are put on very hard (60
vehicles.) Increasing application pressure to hold psi or more application pressure). These valves
the same speed means the brakes are fading. You cannot be controlled by the driver.
should slow down and use a lower gear. The need
for increased pressure can also be caused by 5.1.14 – Spring Brakes
brakes out of adjustment, air leaks, or mechanical
problems. All trucks, truck tractors, and buses must be
equipped with emergency brakes and parking
5.1.11 – Low Air Pressure Warning brakes. They must be held on by mechanical force
(because air pressure can eventually leak away).
A low air pressure warning signal is required on Spring brakes are usually used to meet these
vehicles with air brakes. A warning signal you can needs. When driving, powerful springs are held
see must come on before the air pressure in the back by air pressure. If the air pressure is
tanks falls below 60 psi. (Or one half the removed, the springs put on the brakes. A parking
compressor governor cutout pressure on older brake control in the cab allows the driver to let the
vehicles.) The warning is usually a red light. A air out of the spring brakes. This lets the springs
buzzer may also come on. put the brakes on. A leak in the air brake system,
which causes all the air to be lost, will also cause
Another type of warning is the "wig wag." This the springs to put on the brakes.
device drops a mechanical arm into your view
when the pressure in the system drops below 60 Tractor and straight truck spring brakes will come
psi. An automatic wig wag will rise out of your view fully on when air pressure drops to a range of 20 to
when the pressure in the system goes above 60 45 psi (typically 20 to 30 psi). Do not wait for the
psi. The manual reset type must be placed in the brakes to come on automatically. When the low air
"out of view" position manually. It will not stay in pressure warning light and buzzer first come on,
place until the pressure in the system is above 60 bring the vehicle to a safe stop right away, while
psi. you can still control the brakes.

On large buses it is common for the low pressure The braking power of spring brakes depends on
warning devices to signal at 80-85 psi. the brakes being in adjustment. If the brakes are
not adjusted properly, neither the regular brakes
5.1.12 – Stop Light Switch nor the emergency/parking brakes will work right.

Drivers behind you must be warned when you put 5.1.15 – Parking Brake Controls
your brakes on. The air brake system does this
with an electric switch that works by air pressure. In newer vehicles with air brakes, you put on the
The switch turns on the brake lights when you put parking brakes using a diamond-shaped, yellow,
on the air brakes. push-pull control knob. You pull the knob out to put
the parking brakes (spring brakes) on, and push it
5.1.13 – Front Brake Limiting Valve in to release them. On older vehicles, the parking
brakes may be controlled by a lever. Use the
Some older vehicles (made before 1975) have a parking brakes whenever you park.
front brake limiting valve and a control in the cab.
The control is usually marked "normal" and Caution. Never push the brake pedal down when
"slippery." When you put the control in the the spring brakes are on. If you do, the brakes
"slippery" position, the limiting valve cuts the could be damaged by the combined forces of the
"normal" air pressure to the front brakes by half. springs and the air pressure. Many brake systems
Limiting valves were used to reduce the chance of are designed so this will not happen. But not all
the front wheels skidding on slippery surfaces. systems are set up that way, and those that are
However, they actually reduce the stopping power may not always work. It is much better to develop
of the vehicle. Front wheel braking is good under

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

the habit of not pushing the brake pedal down

when the spring brakes are on.

Modulating Control Valves. In some vehicles a

control handle on the dash board may be used to
apply the spring brakes gradually. This is called a
modulating valve. It is spring-loaded so you have a
feel for the braking action. The more you move the
control lever, the harder the spring brakes come
on. They work this way so you can control the
spring brakes if the service brakes fail. When
parking a vehicle with a modulating control valve,
move the lever as far as it will go and hold it in
place with the locking device.

Dual Parking Control Valves. When main air

pressure is lost, the spring brakes come on. Some
vehicles, such as buses, have a separate air tank
which can be used to release the spring brakes.
This is so you can move the vehicle in an
emergency. One of the valves is a push-pull type
and is used to put on the spring brakes for parking.
The other valve is spring loaded in the "out"
position. When you push the control in, air from the
separate air tank releases the spring brakes so you
can move. When you release the button, the spring
brakes come on again. There is only enough air in
the separate tank to do this a few times. Therefore,
plan carefully when moving. Otherwise, you may
be stopped in a dangerous location when the
separate air supply runs out. See Figure 5.3.
Figure 5.3
5.1.16 – Antilock Braking Systems (ABS)
On newer vehicles, the malfunction lamp comes on
Truck tractors with air brakes built on or after at start-up for a bulb check, and then goes out
March 1, 1997, and other air brakes vehicles, quickly. On older systems, the lamp could stay on
(trucks, buses, trailers, and converter dollies) built until you are driving over five mph.
on or after March 1, 1998, are required to be
equipped with antilock brakes. Many commercial If the lamp stays on after the bulb check, or goes
vehicles built before these dates have been on once you are under way, you may have lost
voluntarily equipped with ABS. Check the ABS control at one or more wheels.
certification label for the date of manufacture to
determine if your vehicle is equipped with ABS. In the case of towed units manufactured before it
ABS is a computerized system that keeps your was required by the Department of Transportation,
wheels from locking up during hard brake it may be difficult to tell if the unit is equipped with
applications. ABS. Look under the vehicle for the electronic
control unit (ECU) and wheel speed sensor wires
Vehicles with ABS have yellow malfunction lamps coming from the back of the brakes.
to tell you if something isn’t working.
ABS is an addition to your normal brakes. It does
tractors, trucks, and buses will have yellow ABS not decrease or increase your normal braking
malfunction lamps on the instrument panel. capability. ABS only activates when wheels are
about to lock up.
Trailers will have yellow ABS malfunction lamps on
the left side, either on the front or rear corner. ABS does not necessarily shorten your stopping
Dollies manufactured on or after March 1, 1998 are distance, but it does help you keep the vehicle
required to have a lamp on the left side. under control during hard braking

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Figure 5.4

5.2 – Dual Air Brake

.
Subsection 5.1 Most heavy-duty vehicles use dual air brake
Test Your Knowledge systems for safety. A dual air brake system has

1. Why must air tanks be drained? two separate air brake systems, which use a single
2. What is a supply pressure gauge used for? set of brake controls. Each system has its own air
3. All vehicles with air brakes must have a
low air pressure warning signal. True or tanks, hoses, lines, etc. One system typically
False? operates the regular brakes on the rear axle or
4. What are spring brakes? axles. The other system operates the regular

5. Front wheel brakes are good under all brakes on the front axle (and possibly one rear
conditions. True or False? axle). Both systems supply air to the trailer (if there
6. How do you know if your vehicle is is one). The first system is called the "primary"
equipped with antilock brakes? system. The other is called the "secondary"
system. See Figure 5.4.
These questions may be on your test. If you can’t
answer them all, re-read subsection 5.1. Before driving a vehicle with a dual air system,
allow time for the air compressor to build up a
minimum of 100 psi pressure in both the primary
and secondary systems. Watch the primary and
secondary air pressure gauges (or needles, if the
system has two needles in one gauge). Pay
attention to the low air pressure warning light and
buzzer. The warning light and buzzer should shut
off when air pressure in both systems rises to a

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

value set by the manufacturer. This value must be indication that a mechanical problem exists in the
greater than 60 psi. adjuster itself, a problem with the related
foundation brake components, or that the adjuster
The warning light and buzzer should come on was improperly installed.
before the air pressure drops below 60 psi in either
system. If this happens while driving, you should The manual adjustment of an automatic adjuster to
stop right away and safely park the vehicle. If one bring a brake pushrod stroke within legal limits is
air system is very low on pressure, either the front generally masking a mechanical problem and is
or the rear brakes will not be operating fully. This not fixing it. Further, routine adjustment of most
means it will take you longer to stop. Bring the automatic adjusters will likely result in premature
vehicle to a safe stop, and have the air brakes wear of the adjuster itself. It is recommended that
system fixed. when brakes equipped with automatic adjusters
are found to be out of adjustment, the driver take
the vehicle to a repair facility as soon as possible
5.3 – Inspecting Air Brake Systems to have the problem corrected. The manual
adjustment of automatic slack adjusters is
You should use the basic seven-step inspection dangerous because it may give the driver a false
procedure described in Section 2 to inspect your sense of security regarding the effectiveness of the
vehicle. There are more things to inspect on a braking system.
vehicle with air brakes than one without them.
These things are discussed below, in the order The manual adjustment of an automatic adjuster
they fit into the seven-step method. should only be used as a temporary measure to
correct the adjustment in an emergency situation
5.3.1 – During Step 2 Engine Compartment as it is likely the brake will soon be back out of
Checks adjustment since this procedure usually does not
fix the underlying adjustment problem.
Check Air Compressor Drive Belt (if compressor is (Note: Automatic slack adjusters are made by
belt-driven). If the air compressor is belt-driven, different manufacturers and do not all operate the
check the condition and tightness of the belt. It same. Therefore, the specific manufacturer’s
should be in good condition. Service Manual should be consulted prior to
troubleshooting a brake adjustment problem.)
5.3.2 – During Step 5 Walkaround
Inspection Check Brake Drums (or Discs), Linings, and
Hoses. Brake drums (or discs) must not have
cracks longer than one half the width of the friction
Check Slack Adjusters on S-cam Brakes. Park on
area. Linings (friction material) must not be loose
level ground and chock the wheels to prevent the
or soaked with oil or grease. They must not be
vehicle from moving. Release the parking brakes
dangerously thin. Mechanical parts must be in
so you can move the slack adjusters. Use gloves
place, not broken or missing. Check the air hoses
and pull hard on each slack adjuster that you can
connected to the brake chambers to make sure
reach. If a slack adjuster moves more than about
they aren't cut or worn due to rubbing.
one inch where the push rod attaches to it, it
probably needs adjustment. Adjust it or have it
adjusted. Vehicles with too much brake slack can 5.3.3 – Step 7 Final Air Brake Check
be very hard to stop. Out-of-adjustment brakes are
the most common problem found in roadside Do the following checks instead of the hydraulic
inspections. Be safe. Check the slack adjusters. brake check shown in Section 2, Step 7: Check
Brake System.
All vehicles built since 1994 have automatic slack
adjustors. Even though automatic slack adjustors Test Low Pressure Warning Signal. Shut the
adjust themselves during full brake applications, engine off when you have enough air pressure so
they must be checked. that the low pressure warning signal is not on. Turn
the electrical power on and step on and off the
Automatic adjusters should not have to be brake pedal to reduce air tank pressure. The low
manually adjusted except when performing air pressure warning signal must come on before
maintenance on the brakes and during installation the pressure drops to less than 60 psi in the air
of the slack adjusters. In a vehicle equipped with tank (or tank with the lowest air pressure, in dual
automatic adjusters, when the pushrod stroke air systems). See Figure 5.5.
exceeds the legal brake adjustment limit, it is an

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

If the warning signal doesn't work, you could lose Test Air Leakage Rate. With a fully-charged air
air pressure and you would not know it. This could system (typically 125 psi), turn off the engine,
cause sudden emergency braking in a single- release the parking brake, and time the air
circuit air system. In dual systems the stopping pressure drop. The loss rate should be less than
distance will be increased. Only limited braking can two psi in one minute for single vehicles and less
be done before the spring brakes come on. than three psi in one minute for combination
vehicles. Then apply 90 psi or more with the brake
pedal. After the initial pressure drop, if the air
pressure falls more than three psi in one minute for
single vehicles (more than four psi for combination
vehicles), the air loss rate is too much. Check for
air leaks and fix before driving the vehicle.
Otherwise, you could lose your brakes while
driving.

Check Air Compressor Governor Cut-in and

Cut-out Pressures. Pumping by the air
compressor should start at about 100 psi and stop
at about 125 psi. (Check manufacturer's
specifications.) Run the engine at a fast idle. The
air governor should cut-out the air compressor at
about the manufacturer's specified pressure. The
air pressure shown by your gauge(s) will stop
rising. With the engine idling, step on and off the
brake to reduce the air tank pressure. The
compressor should cut-in at about the
manufacturer's specified cut-in pressure. The
pressure should begin to rise.

If the air governor does not work as described

Figure 5.5 above, it may need to be fixed. A governor that
does not work properly may not keep enough air
Check That Spring Brakes Come On pressure for safe driving.
Automatically. Continue to fan off the air
pressure by stepping on and off the brake pedal to Test Parking Brake. Stop the vehicle, put the
reduce tank pressure. The tractor protection valve parking brake on, and gently pull against it in a low
and parking brake valve should close (pop out) on gear to test that the parking brake will hold.
a tractor-trailer combination vehicle and the
parking brake valve should close (pop out) on Test Service Brakes. Wait for normal air
other combination and single vehicle types when pressure, release the parking brake, move the
the air pressure falls to the manufacturer’s vehicle forward slowly (about five mph), and apply
specification (20 – 45 psi). This will cause the the brakes firmly using the brake pedal. Note any
spring brakes to come on. vehicle "pulling" to one side, unusual feel, or
delayed stopping action.
Check Rate of Air Pressure Buildup. When the
engine is at operating rpms, the pressure should This test may show you problems, which you
build from 85 to 100 psi within 45 seconds in dual otherwise wouldn't know about until you needed
air systems. (If the vehicle has larger than the brakes on the road.
minimum air tanks, the buildup time can be longer
and still be safe. Check the manufacturer's
specifications.) In single air systems (pre-1975),
typical requirements are pressure buildup from 50
to 90 psi within 3 minutes with the engine at an idle
speed of 600-900 rpms.

If air pressure does not build up fast enough, your

pressure may drop too low during driving, requiring
an emergency stop. Don't drive until you get the
problem fixed.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

or start a tractor jackknife, let up on the brakes (if

Subsections 5.2 and 5.3 you can safely do so) until you gain control.
Test Your Knowledge When you drive a tractor-trailer combination with
ABS, you should brake as you always have. In
1. What is a dual air brake system? other words:
2. What are the slack adjusters?
3. How can you check slack adjusters? Use only the braking force necessary to stop
4. How can you test the low pressure warning safely and stay in control.
signal?
Brake the same way, regardless of whether you
5. How can you check that the spring brakes
have ABS on the tractor, the trailer, or both.
come on automatically?
6. What are the maximum leakage rates? As you slow down, monitor your tractor and trailer
and back off the brakes (if it is safe to do so) to
These questions may be on your test. If you can’t stay in control.
answer them all, re-read subsections 5.2 and 5.3.
There is only one exception to this procedure, if
you always drive a straight truck or combination
with working ABS on all axles, in an emergency
stop, you can fully apply the brakes.
5.4 – Using Air Brakes
Without ABS, you still have normal brake functions.
5.4.1 – Normal Stops Drive and brake as you always have.

Push the brake pedal down. Control the pressure Remember, if your ABS malfunctions, you still
so the vehicle comes to a smooth, safe stop. If you have regular brakes. Drive normally, but get the
have a manual transmission, don't push the clutch system serviced soon.
in until the engine rpm is down close to idle. When
stopped, select a starting gear. 5.4.3 – Emergency Stops

5.4.2 – Braking with Antilock Brakes If somebody suddenly pulls out in front of you, your
natural response is to hit the brakes. This is a good
When you brake hard on slippery surfaces in a response if there's enough distance to stop, and
vehicle without ABS, your wheels may lock up. you use the brakes correctly.
When your steering wheels lock up, you lose You should brake in a way that will keep your
steering control. When your other wheels lock up, vehicle in a straight line and allow you to turn if it
you may skid, jackknife, or even spin the vehicle. becomes necessary. You can use the "controlled
braking" method or the "stab braking" method.
ABS helps you avoid wheel lock up. The computer
senses impending lockup, reduces the braking Controlled Braking. With this method, you apply
pressure to a safe level, and you maintain control. the brakes as hard as you can without locking the
You may or may not be able to stop faster with wheels. Keep steering wheel movements very
ABS, but you should be able to steer around an small while doing this. If you need to make a larger
obstacle while braking, and avoid skids caused by steering adjustment or if the wheels lock, release
over braking. the brakes. Re-apply the brakes as soon as you
can.
Having ABS on only the tractor, only the trailer, or
even on only one axle, still gives you more control Stab Braking. Apply your brakes all the way.
over the vehicle during braking. Brake normally. Release brakes when wheels lock up. As
soon as the wheels start rolling, apply the
When only the tractor has ABS, you should be able brakes fully again. (It can take up to one
to maintain steering control, and there is less second for the wheels to start rolling after you
chance of jackknifing. But, keep your eye on the
release the brakes. If you re-apply the brakes
trailer and let up on the brakes (if you can safely
do so) if it begins to swing out.
before the wheels start rolling, the vehicle
won't straighten out.)
When only the trailer has ABS, the trailer is less
likely to swing out, but if you lose steering control

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

5.4.4 – Stopping Distance As the overheated drums expand, the brake shoes
and linings have to move farther to contact the
Stopping distance was described in Section 2 drums, and the force of this contact is reduced.
under "Speed and Stopping Distance." With air Continued overuse may increase brake fade until
brakes there is an added delay - “Brake Lag”. This the vehicle cannot be slowed down or stopped.
is the time required for the brakes to work after the Brake fade is also affected by adjustment. To
brake pedal is pushed. With hydraulic brakes (used safely control a vehicle, every brake must do its
on cars and light/medium trucks), the brakes work share of the work. Brakes out of adjustment will
instantly. However, with air brakes, it takes a little stop doing their share before those that are in
time (one half second or more) for the air to flow adjustment. The other brakes can then overheat
through the lines to the brakes. Thus, the total and fade, and there will not be enough braking
stopping distance for vehicles with air brake available to control the vehicle(s). Brakes can get
systems is made up of four different factors. out of adjustment quickly, especially when they are
hot. Therefore, check brake adjustment often.
Perception Distance + Reaction Distance + Brake
Lag Distance + Braking Distance = Total Stopping 5.4.6 – Proper Braking Technique
Distance
Remember. The use of brakes on a long and/or
The air brake lag distance at 55 mph on dry steep downgrade is only a supplement to the
pavement adds about 32 feet. So at 55 mph for an braking effect of the engine. Once the vehicle is in
average driver under good traction and brake the proper low gear, the following is the proper
conditions, the total stopping distance is over 450 braking technique:
feet. See Figure 5.6.
Apply the brakes just hard enough to feel a
1 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 1 0   definite slowdown.
When your speed has been reduced to
  approximately five mph below your "safe" speed,
1 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 1 0
release the brakes. (This application should last
  for about three seconds.)
15 81’ When your speed has increased to your "safe"
39’ 16’ 9’17'   speed, repeat steps 1 and 2.
25 15 5 ’ Total Stop Dist.
65’ 28’ 15’ 47’   For example, if your "safe" speed is 40 mph, you
35 243’ Total Stopping Distance would not apply the brakes until your speed
91’ 39’ 21’ 92’ reaches 40 mph. You now apply the brakes hard
45 346 ’ Total Stopping Distance enough to gradually reduce your speed to 35 mph
117’ 50’ 27' 152’ and then release the brakes. Repeat this as often
55 45 1’ Total Stopping Distance as necessary until you have reached the end of the
142’ 61’ 32' 216’ downgrade.
Brake
MPH Perception Distance Reaction Lag Braking Distance
Distance
5.4.7 – Low Air Pressure
Figure 5.6
If the low air pressure warning comes on, stop and
5.4.5 – Brake Fading or Failure safely park your vehicle as soon as possible. There
might be an air leak in the system. Controlled
Brakes are designed so brake shoes or pads rub braking is possible only while enough air remains
against the brake drum or disks to slow the vehicle. in the air tanks. The spring brakes will come on
Braking creates heat, but brakes are designed to when the air pressure drops into the range of 20 to
take a lot of heat. However, brakes can fade or fail 45 psi. A heavily loaded vehicle will take a long
from excessive heat caused by using them too distance to stop because the spring brakes do not
much and not relying on the engine braking effect. work on all axles. Lightly loaded vehicles or
vehicles on slippery roads may skid out of control
Excessive use of the service brakes results in when the spring brakes come on. It is much safer
overheating and leads to brake fade. Brake fade to stop while there is enough air in the tanks to use
results from excessive heat causing chemical the foot brakes.
changes in the brake lining, which reduce friction,
and also causing expansion of the brake drums.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

5.4.8 – Parking Brakes

Any time you park, use the parking brakes, except

as noted below. Pull the parking brake control
knob out to apply the parking brakes, push it in to
release. The control will be a yellow, diamond-
shaped knob labeled "parking brakes" on newer
vehicles. On older vehicles, it may be a round blue
knob or some other shape (including a lever that
swings from side to side or up and down).

Don't use the parking brakes if the brakes are very

hot (from just having come down a steep grade), or
if the brakes are very wet in freezing temperatures.
If they are used while they are very hot, they can
be damaged by the heat. If they are used in
freezing temperatures when the brakes are very
wet, they can freeze so the vehicle cannot move.
Use wheel chocks on a level surface to hold the
vehicle. Let hot brakes cool before using the
parking brakes. If the brakes are wet, use the
brakes lightly while driving in a low gear to heat
and dry them.

If your vehicle does not have automatic air tank

drains, drain your air tanks at the end of each
working day to remove moisture and oil.
Otherwise, the brakes could fail.

Never leave your vehicle unattended

without applying the parking brakes or
chocking the wheels. Your vehicle might
roll away and cause injury and damage.

Subsection 5.4
Test Your Knowledge
1. Why should you be in the proper gear before
starting down a hill?
2. What factors can cause brakes to fade or
fail?
3. The use of brakes on a long, steep
downgrade is only a supplement to the
braking effect of the engine. True or False?
4. If you are away from your vehicle only a short
time, you do not need to use the parking
brake. True or False?
5. How often should you drain air tanks?
6. How do you brake when you drive a tractor-
trailer combination with ABS?
7. You still have normal brake functions if your
ABS is not working. True or False?

These questions may be on your test. If you can’t

answer them all, re-read subsection 5.4.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Avoid quick lane changes, especially when fully

Section 6 loaded.
COMBINATION VEHICLES 6.1.2 – Steer Gently
This Section Covers Trucks with trailers have a dangerous "crack-the-
whip" effect. When you make a quick lane change,
the crack-the-whip effect can turn the trailer over.
• Driving Combinations There are many accidents where only the trailer
• Combination Vehicle Air Brakes has overturned.
• Antilock Brake Systems
"Rearward amplification" causes the crack-the-
• Coupling and Uncoupling whip effect. Figure 6.1 shows eight types of
• Inspecting Combinations combination vehicles and the rearward
amplification each has in a quick lane change.
This section provides information needed to pass Rigs with the least crack-the-whip effect are shown
the tests for combination vehicles (tractor-trailer, at the top and those with the most, at the bottom.
doubles, triples, straight truck with trailer). The Rearward amplification of 2.0 in the chart means
information is only to give you the minimum that the rear trailer is twice as likely to turn over as
knowledge needed for driving common the tractor. You can see that triples have a
combination vehicles. You should also study rearward amplification of 3.5. This means you can
Section 7 if you need to pass the test for doubles roll the last trailer of triples 3.5 times as easily as a
and triples. five-axle tractor.

6.1 – Driving Combination Vehicles Steer gently and smoothly when you are pulling
Safely trailers. If you make a sudden movement with your
steering wheel, your trailer could tip over. Follow
Combination vehicles are usually heavier, longer, far enough behind other vehicles (at least 1
and require more driving skill than single second for each 10 feet of your vehicle length, plus
commercial vehicles. This means that drivers of another second if going over 40 mph). Look far
combination vehicles need more knowledge and enough down the road to avoid being surprised
skill than drivers of single vehicles. In this section, and having to make a sudden lane change. At
we talk about some important safety factors that night, drive slowly enough to see obstacles with
apply specifically to combination vehicles. your headlights before it is too late to change lanes
or stop gently. Slow down to a safe speed before
6.1.1 – Rollover Risks going into a turn.

More than half of truck driver deaths in crashes are 6.1.3 – Brake Early
the result of truck rollovers. When more cargo is
piled up in a truck, the "center of gravity" moves Control your speed whether fully loaded or empty.
higher up from the road. The truck becomes easier Large combination vehicles take longer to stop
to turn over. Fully loaded rigs are ten times more when they are empty than when they are fully
likely to roll over in a crash than empty rigs. loaded. When lightly loaded, the very stiff
suspension springs and strong brakes give poor
The following two things will help you prevent traction and make it very easy to lock up the
rollover--keep the cargo as close to the ground as wheels. Your trailer can swing out and strike other
possible, and drive slowly around turns. Keeping vehicles. Your tractor can jackknife very quickly.
cargo low is even more important in combination You also must be very careful about driving
vehicles than in straight trucks. Also, keep the load "bobtail" tractors (tractors without semitrailers).
centered on your rig. If the load is to one side so it Tests have shown that bobtails can be very hard to
makes a trailer lean, a rollover is more likely. Make stop smoothly. It takes them longer to stop than a
sure your cargo is centered and spread out as tractor-semitrailer loaded to maximum gross
much as possible. (Cargo distribution is covered in weight.
Section 3 of this manual.)
In any combination rig, allow lots of following
Rollovers happen when you turn too fast. Drive distance and look far ahead, so you can brake
slowly around corners, on ramps, and off ramps. early. Don't be caught by surprise and have to
make a "panic" stop.

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Figure 6.1

6.1.4 – Railroad-highway Crossings 6.1.5 – Prevent Trailer Skids

Railroad-highway crossings can also cause When the wheels of a trailer lock up, the trailer will
problems, particularly when pulling trailers with low tend to swing around. This is more likely to happen
underneath clearance. when the trailer is empty or lightly loaded. This
type of jackknife is often called a "trailer jackknife."
These trailers can get stuck on raised crossings: See Figure 6.2.

The procedure for stopping a trailer skid is:

Low slung units (lowboy, car carrier, moving van,
possum-belly livestock trailer).
Recognize the Skid. The earliest and best way to
Single-axle tractor pulling a long trailer with its recognize that the trailer has started to skid is by
landing gear set to accommodate a tandem-axle seeing it in your mirrors. Any time you apply the
tractor. brakes hard, check the mirrors to make sure the
trailer is staying where it should be. Once the
If for any reason you get stuck on the tracks, get trailer swings out of your lane, it's very difficult to
out of the vehicle and away from the tracks. Check prevent a jackknife.
signposts or signal housing at the crossing for
emergency notification information. Call 911 or * (From R.D. Ervin, R.L. Nisconger, C.C.
other emergency number. Give the location of the MacAdam, and P.S. Fancher, “Influence of size
crossing using all identifiable landmarks, especially and weigh variables on the stability and control
the DOT number, if posted. properties of heavy trucks, “University of Michigan
Transportation Research Institute, 1983).

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complete your turn without entering another traffic

lane, turn wide as you complete the turn. This is
better than swinging wide to the left before starting
the turn because it will keep other drivers from
passing you on the right. See Figure 6.4.

Figure 6.3

Figure 6.2

Stop Using the Brake. Release the brakes to get

traction back. Do not use the trailer hand brake (if
you have one) to "straighten out the rig." This is the
wrong thing to do since the brakes on the trailer Figure 6.4
wheels caused the skid in the first place. Once the
trailer wheels grip the road again, the trailer will 6.1.7 – Backing with a Trailer.
start to follow the tractor and straighten out.
Backing with a Trailer. When backing a car,
6.1.6 – Turn Wide straight truck, or bus, you turn the top of the
steering wheel in the direction you want to go.
When a vehicle goes around a corner, the rear When backing a trailer, you turn the steering wheel
wheels follow a different path than the front in the opposite direction. Once the trailer starts to
wheels. This is called offtracking or "cheating." turn, you must turn the wheel the other way to
Figure 6.3 shows how offtracking causes the path follow the trailer.
followed by a tractor to be wider than the rig itself.
Longer vehicles will offtrack more. The rear wheels Whenever you back up with a trailer, try to position
of the powered unit (truck or tractor) will offtrack your vehicle so you can back in a straight line. If
some, and the rear wheels of the trailer will offtrack you must back on a curved path, back to the
even more. If there is more than one trailer, the driver's side so you can see. See Figure 6.5.
rear wheels of the last trailer will offtrack the most.
Steer the front end wide enough around a corner
so the rear end does not run over the curb,
pedestrians, etc. However, keep the rear of your
vehicle close to the curb. This will stop other
drivers from passing you on the right. If you cannot

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Subsection 6.1
Test Your Knowledge
1. What two things are important to prevent
rollover?
2. When you turn suddenly while pulling
doubles, which trailer is most likely to turn
over?
3. Why should you not use the trailer hand
brake to straighten out a jackknifing trailer?
4. What is offtracking?
5. When you back a trailer, you should
position your vehicle so you can back in a
curved path to the driver’s side. True or
False?
6. What type of trailers can get stuck on
railroad-highway crossings?

These questions may be on your test. If you can’t

answer them all, re-read subsection 6.1.

6.2 – Combination Vehicle Air Brakes

You should study Section 5: Air Brakes before
reading this. In combination vehicles the braking
system has parts to control the trailer brakes, in
Figure 6.5
addition to the parts described in Section 5. These
parts are described below.
Look at Your Path. Look at your line of travel
before you begin. Get out and walk around the
vehicle. Check your clearance to the sides and 6.2.1 – Trailer Hand Valve
overhead, in and near the path your vehicle.
The trailer hand valve (also called the trolley valve
Use Mirrors on Both Sides. Check the outside or Johnson bar) works the trailer brakes. The trailer
mirrors on both sides frequently. Get out of the hand valve should be used only to test the trailer
vehicle and re-inspect your path if you are unsure. brakes. Do not use it in driving because of the
danger of making the trailer skid. The foot brake
Back Slowly. This will let you make corrections sends air to all of the brakes on the vehicle
before you get too far off course. (including the trailer(s)). There is much less danger
of causing a skid or jackknife when using just the
Correct Drift Immediately. As soon as you see foot brake.
the trailer getting off the proper path, correct it by
turning the top of the steering wheel in the Never use the hand valve for parking because all
direction of the drift. the air might leak out unlocking the brakes (in
trailers that don't have spring brakes). Always use
Pull Forward. When backing a trailer, make pull- the parking brakes when parking. If the trailer does
ups to re-position your vehicle as needed. not have spring brakes, use wheel chocks to keep
the trailer from moving.

6.2.2 – Tractor Protection Valve

The tractor protection valve keeps air in the tractor

or truck brake system should the trailer break away

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or develop a bad leak. The tractor protection valve protection valve to close (the air supply knob will
is controlled by the "trailer air supply" control valve pop out).
in the cab. The control valve allows you to open
and shut the tractor protection valve. The tractor Emergency lines are often coded with the color red
protection valve will close automatically if air (red hose, red couplers, or other parts) to keep
pressure is low (in the range of 20 to 45 psi). When from getting them mixed up with the blue service
the tractor protection valve closes, it stops any air line.
from going out of the tractor. It also lets the air out
of the trailer emergency line. This causes the trailer 6.2.5 – Hose Couplers (Glad Hands)
emergency brakes to come on, with possible loss
of control. (Emergency brakes are covered later.) Glad hands are coupling devices used to connect
the service and emergency air lines from the truck
6.2.3 – Trailer Air Supply Control or tractor to the trailer. The couplers have a rubber
seal, which prevents air from escaping. Clean the
The trailer air supply control on newer vehicles is a couplers and rubber seals before a connection is
red eight-sided knob, which you use to control the made. When connecting the glad hands, press the
tractor protection valve. You push it in to supply two seals together with the couplers at a 90 degree
the trailer with air, and pull it out to shut the air off angle to each other. A turn of the glad hand
and put on the trailer emergency brakes. The valve attached to the hose will join and lock the couplers.
will pop out (thus closing the tractor protection
valve) when the air pressure drops into the range When coupling, make sure to couple the proper
of 20 to 45 psi. Tractor protection valve controls or glad hands together. To help avoid mistakes,
"emergency" valves on older vehicles may not colors are sometimes used. Blue is used for the
operate automatically. There may be a lever rather service lines and red for the emergency (supply)
than a knob. The "normal" position is used for lines. Sometimes, metal tags are attached to the
pulling a trailer. The "emergency" position is used lines with the words "service" and "emergency"
to shut the air off and put on the trailer emergency stamped on them. See Figure 6.6
brakes.
If you do cross the air lines, supply air will be sent
6.2.4 – Trailer Air Lines to the service line instead of going to charge the
trailer air tanks. Air will not be available to release
Every combination vehicle has two air lines, the the trailer spring brakes (parking brakes). If the
service line and the emergency line. They run spring brakes don't release when you push the
between each vehicle (tractor to trailer, trailer to trailer air supply control, check the air line
dolly, dolly to second trailer, etc.) connections.

Service Air Line. The service line (also called the Older trailers do not have spring brakes. If the air
control line or signal line) carries air, which is supply in the trailer air tank has leaked away there
controlled by the foot brake or the trailer hand will be no emergency brakes, and the trailer
brake. Depending on how hard you press the foot wheels will turn freely. If you crossed the air lines,
brake or hand valve, the pressure in the service you could drive away but you wouldn't have trailer
line will similarly change. The service line is brakes. This would be very dangerous. Always test
connected to relay valves. These valves allow the the trailer brakes before driving with the hand valve
trailer brakes to be applied more quickly than or by pulling the air supply (tractor protection valve)
would otherwise be possible. control. Pull gently against them in a low gear to
make sure the brakes work.
Emergency Air Line. The emergency line (also
called the supply line) has two purposes. First, it Some vehicles have "dead end" or dummy
supplies air to the trailer air tanks. Second, the couplers to which the hoses may be attached
emergency line controls the emergency brakes on when they are not in use. This will prevent water
combination vehicles. Loss of air pressure in the and dirt from getting into the coupler and the air
emergency line causes the trailer emergency lines. Use the dummy couplers when the air lines
brakes to come on. The pressure loss could be are not connected to a trailer. If there are no
caused by a trailer breaking loose, thus tearing dummy couplers, the glad hands can sometimes
apart the emergency air hose. Or it could be be locked together (depending on the couplings). It
caused by a hose, metal tubing, or other part is very important to keep the air supply clean.
breaking, letting the air out. When the emergency
line loses pressure, it also causes the tractor

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valves are in the open position except the ones at

the back of the last trailer, which must be closed.

6.2.8 – Trailer Service, Parking and

Emergency Brakes

Newer trailers have spring brakes just like trucks

and truck tractors. However, converter dollies and
trailers built before 1975 are not required to have
spring brakes. Those that do not have spring
brakes have emergency brakes, which work from
the air stored in the trailer air tank. The emergency
brakes come on whenever air pressure in the
emergency line is lost. These trailers have no
parking brake. The emergency brakes come on
whenever the air supply knob is pulled out or the
trailer is disconnected. A major leak in the
emergency line will cause the tractor protection
valve to close and the trailer emergency brakes to
come on. But the brakes will hold only as long as
there is air pressure in the trailer air tank.
Eventually, the air will leak away and then there
will be no brakes. Therefore, it is very important for
safety that you use wheel chocks when you park
trailers without spring brakes.

You may not notice a major leak in the service line

Figure 6.6
until you try to put the brakes on. Then, the air loss
from the leak will lower the air tank pressure
6.2.6 – Trailer Air Tanks
quickly. If it goes low enough, the trailer
emergency brakes will come on.
Each trailer and converter dolly has one or more
air tanks. They are filled by the emergency (supply)
line from the tractor. They provide the air pressure
used to operate trailer brakes. Air pressure is sent Subsection 6.2
from the air tanks to the brakes by relay valves.
Test Your Knowledge
The pressure in the service line tells how much
1. Why should you not use the trailer hand
pressure the relay valves should send to the trailer
valve while driving?
brakes. The pressure in the service line is
2. Describe what the trailer air supply control
controlled by the brake pedal (and the trailer hand
does.
brake).
3. Describe what the service line is for.
4. What is the emergency air line for?
It is important that you don't let water and oil build
5. Why should you use chocks when parking
up in the air tanks. If you do, the brakes may not
a trailer without spring brakes?
work correctly. Each tank has a drain valve on it
6. Where are shut-off valves?
and you should drain each tank every day. If your
tanks have automatic drains, they will keep most
These questions may be on your test. If you can’t
moisture out. But you should still open the drains
answer them all, re-read subsection 6.2.
to make sure.

6.2.7 – Shut-off Valves

Shut-off valves (also called cut-out cocks) are used

in the service and supply air lines at the back of
trailers used to tow other trailers. These valves
permit closing the air lines off when another trailer
is not being towed. You must check that all shut-off

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6.3 – Antilock Brake Systems ABS does not necessarily shorten your stopping
distance, but it does help you keep the vehicle
6.3.1 – Trailers Required to Have ABS under control during hard braking.

All trailers and converter dollies built on or after ABS helps you avoid wheel lock up. The computer
March 1, 1998, are required to have ABS. senses impending lockup, reduces the braking
However, many trailers and converter dollies built pressure to a safe level, and you maintain control.
before this date have been voluntarily equipped
with ABS. Having ABS on only the trailer, or even on only
one axle, still gives you more control over the
Trailers will have yellow ABS malfunction lamps on vehicle during braking.
the left side, either on the front or rear corner. See
Figure 6.7. Dollies manufactured on or after March When only the trailer has ABS, the trailer is less
1, 1998, are required to have a lamp on the left likely to swing out, but if you lose steering control
side. or start a tractor jackknife, let up on the brakes (if
you can safely do so) until you gain control.
In the case of vehicles manufactured before the
required date, it may be difficult to tell if the unit is When you drive a tractor-trailer combination with
equipped with ABS. Look under the vehicle for the ABS, you should brake as you always have. In
ECU and wheel speed sensor wires coming from other words:
the back of the brakes. Use only the braking force necessary to stop
safely and stay in control.
Brake the same way, regardless of whether you
have ABS on the tractor, the trailer, or both.
As you slow down, monitor your tractor and trailer
and back off the brakes (if it is safe to do so) to
stay in control.

Remember, if your ABS malfunctions, you still

have regular brakes. Drive normally, but get the
system serviced soon.

ABS won’t allow you to drive faster, follow more

closely, or drive less carefully.

6.4 – Coupling and Uncoupling

Knowing how to couple and uncouple correctly is
basic to safe operation of combination vehicles.
Wrong coupling and uncoupling can be very
dangerous. General coupling and uncoupling steps
are listed below. There are differences between
different rigs, so learn the details of coupling and
uncoupling the truck(s) you will operate.

6.4.1 – Coupling Tractor-Semitrailers

Figure 6.7
Step 1. Inspect Fifth Wheel
6.3.2 – Braking with ABS Check for damaged/missing parts.

ABS is an addition to your normal brakes. It does Check to see that mounting to tractor is secure,
not decrease or increase your normal braking no cracks in frame, etc.
capability. ABS only activates when wheels are Be sure that the fifth wheel plate is greased as
about to lock up. required. Failure to keep the fifth wheel plate
lubricated could cause steering problems
because of friction between the tractor and trailer.

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Check if fifth wheel is in proper position for Make sure air lines are safely supported where
coupling. they won't be crushed or caught while tractor is
- Wheel tilted down toward rear of tractor. backing under the trailer.
- Jaws open.
Step 8. Supply Air to Trailer
- Safety unlocking handle in the automatic
lock position. From cab, push in "air supply" knob or move
- If you have a sliding fifth wheel, make tractor protection valve control from the
sure it is locked. "emergency" to the "normal" position to supply air
- Make sure the trailer kingpin is not bent to the trailer brake system.
or broken. Wait until the air pressure is normal.

Step 2. Inspect Area and Chock Wheels Check brake system for crossed air lines.

Make sure area around the vehicle is clear. - Shut engine off so you can hear the
brakes.
Be sure trailer wheels are chocked or spring - Apply and release trailer brakes and
brakes are on. listen for sound of trailer brakes being
Check that cargo (if any) is secured against applied and released. You should hear
movement due to tractor being coupled to the the brakes move when applied and air
trailer. escape when the brakes are released.
- Check air brake system pressure gauge
Step 3. Position Tractor for signs of major air loss.
Put the tractor directly in front of the trailer. When you are sure trailer brakes are working,
(Never back under the trailer at an angle because start engine.
you might push the trailer sideways and break
Make sure air pressure is up to normal.
the landing gear.)
Check position, using outside mirrors, by looking Step 9. Lock Trailer Brakes
down both sides of the trailer.
Pull out the "air supply" knob or move the tractor
Step 4. Back Slowly protection valve control from "normal" to
"emergency."
Back until fifth wheel just touches the trailer.
Don't hit the trailer. Step 10. Back Under Trailer
Use lowest reverse gear.
Step 5. Secure Tractor
Back tractor slowly under trailer to avoid hitting
Put on the parking brake. the kingpin too hard.
Put transmission in neutral. Stop when the kingpin is locked into the fifth
wheel.
Step 6. Check Trailer Height
The trailer should be low enough that it is raised Step 11. Check Connection for Security
slightly by the tractor when the tractor is backed Raise trailer landing gear slightly off ground.
under it. Raise or lower the trailer as needed. (If
the trailer is too low, the tractor may strike and Pull tractor gently forward while the trailer brakes
damage the trailer nose; if the trailer is too high, it are still locked to check that the trailer is locked
may not couple correctly.) onto the tractor.
Check that the kingpin and fifth wheel are Step 12. Secure Vehicle
aligned.
Put transmission in neutral.
Step 7. Connect Air Lines to Trailer
Put parking brakes on.
Check glad hand seals and connect tractor
Shut off engine and take key with you so
emergency air line to trailer emergency glad
someone else won't move truck while you are
hand.
under it.
Check glad hand seals and connect tractor
service air line to trailer service glad hand.

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Step 13. Inspect Coupling 6.4.2 – Uncoupling Tractor-Semitrailers

Use a flashlight, if necessary.
The following steps will help you to uncouple
Make sure there is no space between upper and safely.
lower fifth wheel. If there is space, something is
wrong (kingpin may be on top of the closed fifth Step 1. Position Rig
wheel jaws, and trailer would come loose very
easily). Make sure surface of parking area can support
weight of trailer.
Go under trailer and look into the back of the fifth
wheel. Make sure the fifth wheel jaws have Have tractor lined up with the trailer. (Pulling out
closed around the shank of the kingpin. at an angle can damage landing gear.)

Check that the locking lever is in the "lock" Step 2. Ease Pressure on Locking Jaws
position.
Shut off trailer air supply to lock trailer brakes.
Check that the safety latch is in position over
locking lever. (On some fifth wheels the catch Ease pressure on fifth wheel locking jaws by
must be put in place by hand.) backing up gently. (This will help you release the
fifth wheel locking lever.)
If the coupling isn't right, don't drive the coupled
Put parking brakes on while tractor is pushing
unit; get it fixed.
against the kingpin. (This will hold rig with
Step 14. Connect the Electrical Cord and Check pressure off the locking jaws.)
Air Lines
Step 3. Chock Trailer Wheels
Plug the electrical cord into the trailer and fasten
the safety catch. Chock the trailer wheels if the trailer doesn't have
spring brakes or if you're not sure. (The air could
Check both air lines and electrical line for signs of leak out of the trailer air tank, releasing its
damage. emergency brakes. Without chocks, the trailer
could move.)
Make sure air and electrical lines will not hit any
moving parts of vehicle.
Step 4. Lower the Landing Gear
Step 15. Raise Front Trailer Supports (Landing If trailer is empty, lower the landing gear until it
Gear) makes firm contact with the ground.
Use low gear range (if so equipped) to begin If trailer is loaded, after the landing gear makes
raising the landing gear. Once free of weight, firm contact with the ground, turn crank in low
switch to the high gear range. gear a few extra turns. This will lift some weight
off the tractor. (Do not lift trailer off the fifth
Raise the landing gear all the way up. (Never
wheel.) This will:
drive with landing gear only part way up as it may
catch on railroad tracks or other things.) - Make it easier to unlatch fifth wheel.
- Make it easier to couple next time.
After raising landing gear, secure the crank
handle safely. Step 5. Disconnect Air Lines and Electrical
When full weight of trailer is resting on tractor: Cable
- Check for enough clearance between Disconnect air lines from trailer. Connect air line
rear of tractor frame and landing gear. glad hands to dummy couplers at back of cab or
(When tractor turns sharply, it must not couple them together.
hit landing gear.)
Hang electrical cable with plug down to prevent
- Check that there is enough clearance
moisture from entering it.
between the top of the tractor tires and
the nose of the trailer. Make sure lines are supported so they won't be
damaged while driving the tractor.

Step 16. Remove Trailer Wheel Chocks Step 6. Unlock Fifth Wheel
Remove and store wheel chocks in a safe place. Raise the release handle lock.
Pull the release handle to "open" position.

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Keep legs and feet clear of the rear tractor However, there are also some new things to check.
wheels to avoid serious injury in case the vehicle These are discussed below.
moves.
6.5.1 – Additional Things to Check During a
Step 7. Pull Tractor Partially Clear of Trailer Walkaround Inspection
Pull tractor forward until fifth wheel comes out
from under the trailer. Do these checks in addition to those already listed
in Section 2.
Stop with tractor frame under trailer (prevents
trailer from falling to ground if landing gear should Coupling System Areas
collapse or sink).
Check fifth wheel (lower).
Step 8. Secure Tractor - Securely mounted to frame.
Apply parking brake. - No missing or damaged parts.
- Enough grease.
Place transmission in neutral. - No visible space between upper and
lower fifth wheel.
Step 9. Inspect Trailer Supports
- Locking jaws around the shank, not the
Make sure ground is supporting trailer. head of kingpin. See Figure 6.8.
Make sure landing gear is not damaged. - Release arm properly seated and safety
latch/lock engaged.
Step 10. Pull Tractor Clear of Trailer
Release parking brakes.
Check the area and drive tractor forward until it
clears.

Subsections 6.3 and 6.4

Test Your Knowledge
1. What might happen if the trailer is too high
when you try to couple?
2. After coupling, how much space should be
between the upper and lower fifth wheel?
3. You should look into the back of the fifth
wheel to see if it is locked onto the kingpin.
True or False?
4. To drive you need to raise the landing gear
only until it just lifts off the pavement. True
or False? Figure 6.8
5. How do you know if your trailer is equipped
with antilock brakes?
Check fifth wheel (upper).
These questions may be on your test. If you can’t - Glide plate securely mounted to trailer
answer them all, re-read subsections 6.3 and 6.4. frame.
- Kingpin not damaged.

Air and electric lines to trailer.

6.5 – Inspecting a Combination Vehicle - Electrical cord firmly plugged in and
Use the seven-step inspection procedure secured.
described in Section 2 to inspect your combination - Air lines properly connected to glad
vehicle. There are more things to inspect on a hands, no air leaks, properly secured
combination vehicle than on a single vehicle. (For with enough slack for turns.
example, tires, wheels, lights, reflectors, etc.)
- All lines free from damage.

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Sliding fifth wheel. go from "normal" to "emergency" position) when

- Slide not damaged or parts missing. the air pressure falls into the pressure range
- Properly greased. specified by the manufacturer. (Usually within the
range of 20 to 45 psi.)
- All locking pins present and locked in
place.
If the tractor protection valve doesn't work right, an
- If air powered--no air leaks. air hose or trailer brake leak could drain all the air
- Check that fifth wheel is not so far from the tractor. This would cause the emergency
forward that tractor frame will hit landing brakes to come on, with possible loss of control.
gear, or the cab hit the trailer, during
turns. Test Trailer Emergency Brakes. Charge the
trailer air brake system and check that the trailer
Landing Gear rolls freely. Then stop and pull out the trailer air
Fully raised, no missing parts, not bent or supply control (also called tractor protection valve
otherwise damaged. control or trailer emergency valve), or place it in
the "emergency" position. Pull gently on the trailer
Crank handle in place and secured. with the tractor to check that the trailer emergency
If power operated, no air or hydraulic leaks. brakes are on.
Test Trailer Service Brakes. Check for normal air
pressure, release the parking brakes, move the
6.5.2 – Combination Vehicle Brake Check vehicle forward slowly, and apply trailer brakes
Do these checks in addition to Section 5.3: with the hand control (trolley valve), if so equipped.
Inspecting Air Brake Systems. You should feel the brakes come on. This tells you
the trailer brakes are connected and working. (The
The following section explains how to check air trailer brakes should be tested with the hand valve
brakes on combination vehicles. Check the brakes but controlled in normal operation with the foot
on a double or triple trailer as you would any pedal, which applies air to the service brakes at all
combination vehicle. wheels.)
Check That Air Flows to All Trailers. Use the
tractor parking brake and/or chock the wheels to
hold the vehicle. Wait for air pressure to reach
normal, then push in the red "trailer air supply" Subsection 6.5
knob. This will supply air to the emergency (supply) Test Your Knowledge
lines. Use the trailer handbrake to provide air to the
service line. Go to the rear of the rig. Open the 1. Which shut-off valves should be open and
emergency line shut-off valve at the rear of the last which closed?
trailer. You should hear air escaping, showing the 2. How can you test that air flows to all
entire system is charged. Close the emergency line trailers?
valve. Open the service line valve to check that 3. How can you test the tractor protection
service pressure goes through all the trailers (this valve?
test assumes that the trailer handbrake or the 4. How can you test the trailer emergency
service brake pedal is on), and then close the brakes?
valve. If you do NOT hear air escaping from both 5. How can you test the trailer service
lines, check that the shut-off valves on the trailer(s) brakes?
and dolly(ies) are in the OPEN position. You MUST
have air all the way to the back for all the brakes to These questions may be on your test. If you can’t
work. answer all of them, re-read subsection 6.5.
Test Tractor Protection Valve. Charge the trailer
air brake system. (That is, build up normal air
pressure and push the "air supply" knob in.) Shut
the engine off. Step on and off the brake pedal
several times to reduce the air pressure in the
tanks. The trailer air supply control (also called the
tractor protection valve control) should pop out (or

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

ahead so you can slow down or change lanes

Section 7 gradually when necessary.
DOUBLES AND TRIPLES 7.1.5 – Manage Space
This Section Covers Doubles and triples take up more space than other
commercial vehicles. They are not only longer, but
• Pulling Double/Triple Trailers also need more space because they can't be
• Coupling and Uncoupling turned or stopped suddenly. Allow more following
• Inspecting Doubles and Triples distance. Make sure you have large enough gaps
before entering or crossing traffic. Be certain you
• Checking Air Brakes are clear at the sides before changing lanes.
This section has information you need to pass the
CDL knowledge test for driving safely with double
7.1.6 – Adverse Conditions
and triple trailers. It tells about how important it is
Be more careful in adverse conditions. In bad
to be very careful when driving with more than one
weather, slippery conditions, and mountain driving,
trailer, how to couple and uncouple correctly, and
you must be especially careful if you drive double
about inspecting doubles and triples carefully. (You
and triple bottoms. You will have greater length
should also study Sections 2, 5, and 6.)
and more dead axles to pull with your drive axles
than other drivers. There is more chance for skids
and loss of traction.
7.1 – Pulling Double/Triple Trailers
7.1.7 – Parking the Vehicle
Take special care when pulling two and three
trailers. There are more things that can go wrong,
Make sure you do not get in a spot you cannot pull
and doubles/triples are less stable than other
straight through. You need to be aware of how
commercial vehicles. Some areas of concern are
parking lots are arranged in order to avoid a long
discussed below.
and difficult escape.
7.1.1 – Prevent Trailer from Rolling Over 7.1.8 – Antilock Braking Systems on
To prevent trailers from rolling over, you must steer
Converter Dollies
gently and go slowly around corners, on ramps, off
Converter dollies built on or after March 1, 1998,
ramps, and curves. A safe speed on a curve for a
are required to have antilock brakes. These dollies
straight truck or a single trailer combination vehicle
will have a yellow lamp on the left side of the dolly.
may be too fast for a set of doubles or triples.

7.1.2 – Beware of the Crack-the-whip Effect 7.2 – Coupling and Uncoupling

Doubles and triples are more likely to turn over Knowing how to couple and uncouple correctly is
than other combination vehicles because of the basic to safe operation of doubles and triples.
"crack-the-whip" effect. You must steer gently Wrong coupling and uncoupling can be very
when pulling trailers. The last trailer in a dangerous. Coupling and uncoupling steps for
combination is most likely to turn over. If you don't doubles and triples are listed below.
understand the crack-the-whip effect, study
subsection 6.1.2 of this manual. 7.2.1 – Coupling Twin Trailers

7.1.3 – Inspect Completely Secure Second (Rear) Trailer

There are more critical parts to check when you If the second trailer doesn't have spring brakes,
have two or three trailers. Check them all. Follow drive the tractor close to the trailer, connect the
the procedures described later in this section. emergency line, charge the trailer air tank, and
disconnect the emergency line. This will set the
7.1.4 – Look Far Ahead trailer emergency brakes (if the slack adjusters are
correctly adjusted). Chock the wheels if you have
any doubt about the brakes.
Doubles and triples must be driven very smoothly
to avoid rollover or jackknife. Therefore, look far

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

For the safest handling on the road, the more Connect Converter Dolly to Front Trailer
heavily loaded semitrailer should be in first position
Back first semitrailer into position in front of dolly
behind the tractor. The lighter trailer should be in
tongue.
the rear.
Hook dolly to front trailer.
A converter gear on a dolly is a coupling device of
one or two axles and a fifth wheel by which a Lock pintle hook.
semitrailer can be coupled to the rear of a tractor- Secure converter gear support in raised position.
trailer combination forming a double bottom rig.
See Figure 7.1. Connect Converter Dolly to Rear Trailer
Make sure trailer brakes are locked and/or
wheels chocked.
Make sure trailer height is correct. (It must be
slightly lower than the center of the fifth wheel, so
trailer is raised slightly when dolly is pushed
under.)
Back converter dolly under rear trailer.
Raise landing gear slightly off ground to prevent
damage if trailer moves.
Test coupling by pulling against pin of the second
Figure 7.1 semitrailer.
Position Converter Dolly in Front of Second Make visual check of coupling. (No space
(Rear) Trailer between upper and lower fifth wheel. Locking
jaws closed on kingpin.)
Release dolly brakes by opening the air tank
Connect safety chains, air hoses, and light cords.
petcock. (Or, if the dolly has spring brakes, use the
dolly parking brake control.) Close converter dolly air tank petcock and shut-
off valves at rear of second trailer (service and
If the distance is not too great, wheel the dolly into emergency shut-offs).
position by hand so it is in line with the kingpin.
Open shut-off valves at rear of first trailer (and on
dolly if so equipped).
Or, use the tractor and first semitrailer to pick up
the converter dolly: Raise landing gear completely.
Position combination as close as possible to Charge trailer brakes (push "air supply" knob in),
converter dolly. and check for air at rear of second trailer by
opening the emergency line shut-off. If air
Move dolly to rear of first semitrailer and couple it
pressure isn't there, something is wrong and the
to the trailer.
brakes won't work.
Lock pintle hook.
Secure dolly support in raised position.
7.2.2 – Uncoupling Twin Trailers

Pull dolly into position as close as possible to Uncouple Rear Trailer

nose of the second semitrailer.
Park rig in a straight line on firm level ground.
Lower dolly support.
Apply parking brakes so rig won't move.
Unhook dolly from first trailer.
Chock wheels of second trailer if it doesn't have
Wheel dolly into position in front of second trailer spring brakes.
in line with the kingpin.
Lower landing gear of second semitrailer enough
to remove some weight from dolly.
Close air shut-offs at rear of first semitrailer (and
on dolly if so equipped).

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Disconnect all dolly air and electric lines and you will drive according to the manufacturer and/or
secure them. owner specifications.
Release dolly brakes.
Release converter dolly fifth wheel latch. 7.3 – Inspecting Doubles and Triples
Slowly pull tractor, first semitrailer, and dolly
forward to pull dolly out from under rear Use the seven-step inspection procedure
semitrailer. described in Section 2 to inspect your combination
vehicle. There are more things to inspect on a
Uncouple Converter Dolly combination vehicle than on a single vehicle. Many
of these items are simply more of what you would
Lower dolly landing gear. find on a single vehicle. (For example, tires,
Disconnect safety chains. wheels, lights, reflectors, etc.) However, there are
also some new things to check. These are
Apply converter gear spring brakes or chock discussed below.
wheels.
Release pintle hook on first semi-trailer. 7.3.1 – Additional Checks
Slowly pull clear of dolly. Do these checks in addition to those already listed
in Section 2, Step 5: Do Walkaround Inspection.
Never unlock the pintle hook with the dolly still
under the rear trailer. The dolly tow bar may fly up, Coupling System Areas
possibly causing injury, and making it very difficult
to re-couple. Check fifth wheel (lower).
- Securely mounted to frame.
7.2.3 – Coupling and Uncoupling Triple - No missing or damaged parts.
Trailers - Enough grease.
- No visible space between upper and
Couple Tractor/First Semitrailer to lower fifth wheel.
Second/Third Trailers - Locking jaws around the shank, not the
Couple tractor to first trailer. Use the method head of kingpin.
already described for coupling tractor- - Release arm properly seated and safety
semitrailers. latch/lock engaged.
Move converter dolly into position and couple first Check fifth wheel (upper).
trailer to second trailer using the method for - Glide plate securely mounted to trailer
coupling doubles. Triples rig is now complete. frame.
- Kingpin not damaged.
Uncouple Triple-trailer Rig
Air and electric lines to trailer.
Uncouple third trailer by pulling the dolly out, then
unhitching the dolly using the method for
- Electrical cord firmly plugged in and
secured.
uncoupling doubles.
- Air lines properly connected to glad
Uncouple remainder of rig as you would any hands, no air leaks, properly secured
double-bottom rig using the method already with enough slack for turns.
described. - All lines free from damage.
7.2.4 – Coupling and Uncoupling Other Sliding fifth wheel.
Combinations - Slide not damaged or parts missing.
- Properly greased.
The methods described so far apply to the more - All locking pins present and locked in
common tractor-trailer combinations. However, place.
there are other ways of coupling and uncoupling - If air powered, no air leaks.
the many types of truck-trailer and tractor-trailer
- Check that fifth wheel is not so far
combinations that are in use. There are too many
forward that the tractor frame will hit
to cover in this manual. You will need to learn the
landing gear, or cab will hit the trailer,
correct way to couple and uncouple the vehicle(s) during turns.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Landing Gear the service line valve to check that service

pressure goes through all the trailers (this test
Fully raised, no missing parts, not bent or
assumes that the trailer handbrake or the service
otherwise damaged.
brake pedal is on), and then close the valve. If you
Crank handle in place and secured. do NOT hear air escaping from both lines, check
that the shut-off valves on the trailer(s) and
If power operated, no air or hydraulic leaks. dolly(ies) are in the OPEN position. You MUST
have air all the way to the back for all the brakes to
Double and Triple Trailers
work.
Shut-off valves (at rear of trailers, in service and
emergency lines). Test Tractor Protection Valve. Charge the trailer
- Rear of front trailers: OPEN. air brake system. (That is, build up normal air
- Rear of last trailer: CLOSED. pressure and push the "air supply" knob in.) Shut
the engine off. Step on and off the brake pedal
- Converter dolly air tank drain valve: several times to reduce the air pressure in the
CLOSED.
tanks. The trailer air supply control (also called the
Be sure air lines are supported and glad hands tractor protection valve control) should pop out (or
are properly connected. go from "normal" to "emergency" position) when
the air pressure falls into the pressure range
If spare tire is carried on converter gear (dolly), specified by the manufacturer. (Usually within the
make sure it's secured. range of 20 to 45 psi.)
Be sure pintle-eye of dolly is in place in pintle
hook of trailer(s). If the tractor protection valve doesn't work properly,
an air hose or trailer brake leak could drain all the
Make sure pintle hook is latched. air from the tractor. This would cause the
Safety chains should be secured to trailer(s). emergency brakes to come on, with possible loss
of control.
Be sure light cords are firmly in sockets on
trailers. Test Trailer Emergency Brakes. Charge the
trailer air brake system and check that the trailer
7.3.2 – Additional Things to Check During a rolls freely. Then stop and pull out the trailer air
Walkaround Inspection supply control (also called tractor protection valve
control or trailer emergency valve) or place it in the
Do these checks in addition to subsection 5.3, "emergency" position. Pull gently on the trailer with
Inspecting Air Brake Systems. the tractor to check that the trailer emergency
brakes are on.

7.4 – Doubles/Triples Air Brake Check Test Trailer Service Brakes. Check for normal air
pressure, release the parking brakes, move the
Check the brakes on a double or triple trailer as vehicle forward slowly, and apply trailer brakes
you would any combination vehicle. Subsection with the hand control (trolley valve), if so equipped.
6.5.2 explains how to check air brakes on You should feel the brakes come on. This tells you
combination vehicles. You must also make the the trailer brakes are connected and working. (The
following checks on your double or triple trailers trailer brakes should be tested with the hand valve,
but controlled in normal operation with the foot
7.4.1 – Additional Air Brake Checks pedal, which applies air to the service brakes at all
wheels.)
Check That Air Flows to All Trailers (Double
and Triple Trailers). Use the tractor parking brake
and/or chock the wheels to hold the vehicle. Wait
for air pressure to reach normal, then push in the
red "trailer air supply" knob. This will supply air to
the emergency (supply) lines. Use the trailer
handbrake to provide air to the service line. Go to
the rear of the rig. Open the emergency line shut-
off valve at the rear of the last trailer. You should
hear air escaping, showing the entire system is
charged. Close the emergency line valve. Open

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Section 7
Test Your Knowledge

1. What is a converter dolly?

2. Do converter dollies have spring brakes?
3. What three methods can you use to secure
a second trailer before coupling?
4. How do you check to make sure trailer
height is correct before coupling?
5. What do you check when making a visual
check of coupling?
6. Why should you pull a dolly out from under
a trailer before you disconnect it from the
trailer in front?
7. What should you check for when
inspecting the converter dolly? The pintle
hook?
8. Should the shut-off valves on the rear of
the last trailer be open or closed? On the
first trailer in a set of doubles? On the
middle trailer of a set of triples?
9. How can you test that air flows to all
trailers?
10. How do you know if your converter dolly is
equipped with antilock brakes?

These questions may be on your test. If you can’t

answer them all, re-read Section 7.

Section 7 - Doubles and Triples Page 7-5

2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Section 8 Check manhole covers and vents. Make sure the

TANK VEHICLES covers have gaskets and they close correctly.
Keep the vents clear so they work correctly.

This Section Covers 8.1.2 – Check Special Purpose Equipment

• Inspecting Tank Vehicles If your vehicle has any of the following equipment,
• Driving Tank Vehicles make sure it works:
• Safe Driving Rules Vapor recovery kits.

This section has information needed to pass the Grounding and bonding cables.
CDL knowledge test for driving a tank vehicle. (You Emergency shut-off systems.
should also study Sections 2, 5, 6, and 9). A tank
endorsement is required for certain vehicles that Built in fire extinguisher.
transport liquids or gases. The liquid or gas does
not have to be a hazardous material. A tank Never drive a tank vehicle with open valves or
endorsement is required if your vehicle needs a manhole covers.
Class A or B CDL and you want to haul a liquid or
liquid gas in a permanently mounted cargo tank 8.1.3 – Special Equipment
rated at greater than 450 liters (119 gallons) or a
portable tank rated at greater than 1,000 gallons. Check the emergency equipment required for your
A tank endorsement is also required for Class C vehicle. Find out what equipment you're required to
vehicles when the vehicle is used to transport carry and make sure you have it (and it works).
hazardous materials in liquid or gas form in the
above described rated tanks.
8.2 – Driving Tank Vehicles
Before loading, unloading, or driving a tanker,
inspect the vehicle. This makes sure that the Hauling liquids in tanks requires special skills
vehicle is safe to carry the liquid or gas and is safe because of the high center of gravity and liquid
to drive. movement. See Figure 8.1.

8.1 – Inspecting Tank Vehicles

Tank vehicles have special items that you need to
check. Tank vehicles come in many types and
sizes. You need to check the vehicle's operator
manual to make sure you know how to inspect
your tank vehicle.

8.1.1 – Leaks
Figure 8.1
On all tank vehicles, the most important item to
check for is leaks. Check under and around the
vehicle for signs of any leaking. Don't carry liquids 8.2.1 – High Center of Gravity
or gases in a leaking tank. To do so is a crime. You
will be cited and prevented from driving further. High center of gravity means that much of the
You may also be liable for the clean up of any spill. load's weight is carried high up off the road. This
In general, check the following: makes the vehicle top-heavy and easy to roll over.
Liquid tankers are especially easy to roll over.
Check the tank's body or shell for dents or leaks. Tests have shown that tankers can turn over at the
speed limits posted for curves. Take highway
Check the intake, discharge, and cut-off valves.
curves and on ramp/off ramp curves well below the
Make sure the valves are in the correct position
posted speeds.
before loading, unloading, or moving the vehicle.
Check pipes, connections, and hoses for leaks,
especially around joints.

Section 8 - Tank Vehicles Page 8-1

2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

8.2.2 – Danger of Surge liquids. The amount of liquid to load into a tank
depends on:
Liquid surge results from movement of the liquid in The amount the liquid will expand in transit.
partially filled tanks. This movement can have bad
effects on handling. For example, when coming to The weight of the liquid.
a stop, the liquid will surge back and forth. When
Legal weight limits.
the wave hits the end of the tank, it tends to push
the truck in the direction the wave is moving. If the
truck is on a slippery surface such as ice, the wave 8.3 – Safe Driving Rules
can shove a stopped truck out into an intersection.
The driver of a liquid tanker must be very familiar In order to drive tank vehicles safely, you must
with the handling of the vehicle. remember to follow all the safe driving rules. A few
of these rules are:
8.2.3 – Bulkheads
8.3.1 – Drive Smoothly
Some liquid tanks are divided into several smaller
tanks by bulkheads. When loading and unloading Because of the high center of gravity and the surge
the smaller tanks, the driver must pay attention to of the liquid, you must start, slow down, and stop
weight distribution. Don't put too much weight on very smoothly. Also, make smooth turns and lane
the front or rear of the vehicle. changes.

8.2.4 – Baffled Tanks 8.3.2 – Controlling Surge

Baffled liquid tanks have bulkheads in them with Keep a steady pressure on the brakes. Do not
holes that let the liquid flow through. The baffles release too soon when coming to a stop.
help to control the forward and backward liquid
surge. Side-to-side surge can still occur. This can Brake far in advance of a stop and increase your
cause a roll over. following distance.

8.2.5 – Un-baffled Tanks If you must make a quick stop to avoid a crash,
use controlled or stab braking. If you do not
Un-baffled liquid tankers (sometimes called remember how to stop using these methods,
"smooth bore" tanks) have nothing inside to slow review subsection 2.17.2. Also, remember that if
down the flow of the liquid. Therefore, forward-and- you steer quickly while braking, your vehicle may
back surge is very strong. Un-baffled tanks are roll over.
usually those that transport food products (milk, for
example). (Sanitation regulations forbid the use of 8.3.3 – Curves
baffles because of the difficulty in cleaning the
inside of the tank.) Be extremely cautious (slow Slow down before curves, then accelerate slightly
and careful) in driving smooth bore tanks, through the curve. The posted speed for a curve
especially when starting and stopping. may be too fast for a tank vehicle.

8.2.6 – Outage 8.3.4 – Stopping Distance

Never load a cargo tank totally full. Liquids expand Keep in mind how much space you need to stop
as they warm and you must leave room for the your vehicle. Remember that wet roads double the
expanding liquid. This is called "outage." Since normal stopping distance. Empty tank vehicles
different liquids expand by different amounts, they may take longer to stop than full ones.
require different amounts of outage. You must
know the outage requirement when hauling liquids 8.3.5 – Skids
in bulk.
Don't over steer, over accelerate, or over brake. If
8.2.7 – How Much to Load? you do, your vehicle may skid. On tank trailers, if
your drive wheels or trailer wheels begin to skid,
A full tank of dense liquid (such as some acids) your vehicle may jackknife. When any vehicle
may exceed legal weight limits. For that reason, starts to skid, you must take action to restore
you may often only partially fill tanks with heavy traction to the wheels.

Section 8 - Tank Vehicles Page 8-2

2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Section 8
Test Your Knowledge
1. How are bulkheads different than baffles?
2. Should a tank vehicle take curves, on
ramps, or off ramps at the posted speed
limits?
3. How are smooth bore tankers different to
drive than those with baffles?
4. What three things determine how much
liquid you can load?
5. What is outage?
6. How can you help control surge?
7. What two reasons make special care
necessary when driving tank vehicles?

These questions may be on the test. If you can't

answer them all, re-read Section 8.

Section 8 - Tank Vehicles Page 8-3

2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

You must have a commercial driver license (CDL)

Section 9 with a hazardous materials endorsement before
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS you drive any size vehicle that is used to transport
hazardous material as defined in 49 CFR 383.5.
You must pass a written test about the regulations
This Section Covers and requirements to get this endorsement.

• The Intent of the Regulations Everything you need to know to pass the written
• Bulk Tank Loading, Unloading, and test is in this section. However, this is only a
Marking beginning. Most drivers need to know much more
on the job. You can learn more by reading and
• Driver Responsibilities understanding the federal and state rules
• Driving and Parking Rules applicable to hazardous materials, as well as,
• Communications Rules attending hazardous materials training courses.
• Emergencies Your employer, colleges and universities, and
• Loading and Unloading various associations usually offer these courses.
You can get copies of the Federal Regulations (49
Hazardous materials are products that pose a risk CFR) through your local Government Printing
to health, safety, and property during Office bookstore and various industry publishers.
transportation. The term often is shortened to Union or company offices often have copies of the
HAZMAT, which you may see on road signs, or to rules for driver use. Find out where you can get
HM in government regulations. Hazardous your own copy to use on the job.
materials include explosives, various types of gas,
solids, flammable and combustible liquid, and The regulations require training and testing for all
other materials. Because of the risks involved and drivers involved in transporting hazardous
the potential consequences these risks impose, all materials. Your employer or a designated
levels of government regulate the handling of representative is required to provide this training
hazardous materials. and testing. Hazardous materials employers are
required to keep a record of training for each
The Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) is employee as long as that employee is working with
found in parts 100 - 185 of title 49 of the Code of hazardous materials, and for 90 days thereafter.
Federal Regulations. The common reference for The regulations require that hazardous materials
these regulations is 49 CFR 100 - 185 employees be trained and tested at least once
every three years.
The Hazardous Materials Table in the regulations
contains a list of these items. However, this list is All drivers must be trained in the security risks of
not all-inclusive. Whether or not a material is hazardous materials transportation. This training
considered hazardous is based on its must include how to recognize and respond to
characteristics and the shipper's decision on possible security threats.
whether or not the material meets a definition of a
hazardous material in the regulations. The regulations also require that drivers have
special training before driving a vehicle
The regulations require vehicles transporting transporting certain flammable gas materials or
certain types or quantities of hazardous materials highway route controlled quantities of radioactive
to display diamond-shaped, square on point, materials. In addition, drivers transporting cargo
warning signs called placards. tanks and portable tanks must receive specialized
training. Each driver’s employer or his or her
This section is designed to assist you in designated representative must provide such
understanding your role and responsibilities in training.
hauling hazardous materials. Due to the constantly
changing nature of government regulations, it is Some locations require permits to transport certain
impossible to guarantee absolute accuracy of the explosives or bulk hazardous wastes. States and
materials in this section. An up-to-date copy of the counties also may require drivers to follow special
complete regulations is essential for you to have. hazardous materials routes. The federal
Included in these regulations is a complete government may require permits or exemptions for
glossary of terms. special hazardous materials cargo such as rocket
fuel. Find out about permits, exemptions, and
special routes for the places you drive.

Section 9 - Hazardous Materials Page 9-1

2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

9.1 – The Intent of the Regulations Uses the hazardous materials regulations to
determine the product’s:
9.1.1 – Contain the Material Proper shipping name.

Transporting hazardous materials can be risky. Hazard class.

The regulations are intended to protect you, those Identification number.
around you, and the environment. They tell
shippers how to package the materials safely and Packing group.
drivers how to load, transport, and unload the Correct packaging.
material. These are called "containment rules."
Correct label and markings.
9.1.2 – Communicate the Risk Correct placards.

To communicate the risk, shippers must warn Must package, mark, and label the materials;
drivers and others about the material's hazards. prepare shipping papers; provide emergency
The regulations require shippers to put hazard response information; and supply placards.
warning labels on packages, provide proper Certify on the shipping paper that the shipment
shipping papers, emergency response information, has been prepared according to the rules (unless
and placards. These steps communicate the you are pulling cargo tanks supplied by you or
hazard to the shipper, the carrier, and the driver. your employer).

9.1.3 – Assure Safe Drivers and Equipment 9.2.2 – The Carrier

In order to get a hazardous materials endorsement Takes the shipment from the shipper to its
on a CDL, you must pass a written test about destination.
transporting hazardous materials. To pass the test, Prior to transportation, checks that the shipper
you must know how to: correctly described, marked, labeled, and
Identify what are hazardous materials. otherwise prepared the shipment for
transportation.
Safely load shipments.
Refuses improper shipments.
Properly placard your vehicle in accordance with
the rules. Reports accidents and incidents involving
hazardous materials to the proper government
Safely transport shipments. agency.

Learn the rules and follow them. Following the 9.2.3 – The Driver
rules reduces the risk of injury from hazardous
materials. Taking shortcuts by breaking rules is Makes sure the shipper has identified, marked,
unsafe. Non-compliance with regulations can result and labeled the hazardous materials properly.
in fines and jail.
Refuses leaking packages and shipments.
Inspect your vehicle before and during each trip. Placards vehicle when loading, if required.
Law enforcement officers may stop and inspect
Safely transports the shipment without delay.
your vehicle. When stopped, they may check your
shipping papers, vehicle placards, and the Follows all special rules about transporting
hazardous materials endorsement on your driver hazardous materials.
license, and your knowledge of hazardous
Keeps hazardous materials shipping papers and
materials.
emergency response information in the proper
place.
9.2 – Hazardous Materials
Transportation—Who Does What 9.3 – Communication Rules
9.2.1 – The Shipper 9.3.1 – Definitions
Sends products from one place to another by
truck, rail, vessel, or airplane. Some words and phrases have special meanings
when talking about hazardous materials. Some of

Section 9 - Hazardous Materials Page 9-2

2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

these may differ from meanings you are used to. being carried. Your life, and the lives of others,
The words and phrases in this section may be on may depend on quickly locating the hazardous
your test. The meanings of other important words materials shipping papers. For that reason the
are in the glossary at the end of Section 9. rules require:
Shippers to describe hazardous materials
A material's hazard class reflects the risks
correctly and include an emergency response
associated with it. There are nine different hazard
telephone number on shipping papers.
classes. The types of materials included in these
nine classes are in Figure 9.1. Carriers and drivers to quickly identify hazardous
materials shipping papers, or keep them on top of
other shipping papers and keep the required
Hazardous Materials Class
emergency response information with the
Class

Division

shipping papers.
Name of Class or Drivers to keep hazardous materials shipping
Examples
Division papers:
1.1 Mass Explosion
Dynamite - In a pouch on the driver's door, or
1.2 Projection Hazard
1.3 Fire Hazard
Flares - In clear view within immediate reach
Display Fireworks
1 1.4 Minor Explosion
Ammunition
while the seat belt is fastened while
1.5 Very Insensitive driving, or
Blasting Agents
1.6 Extremely
Insensitive
Explosive Devices - On the driver's seat when out of the
vehicle.
2.1 Flammable Gases Propane
2.2 Non-Flammable Helium
2
Gases
9.3.2 – Package Labels
2.3 Poisonous/Toxic Fluorine, Compressed
Gases Shippers put diamond-shaped hazard warning
3 - Flammable Liquids Gasoline labels on most hazardous materials packages.
Flammable Solids These labels inform others of the hazard. If the
4.1 Ammonium Picrate,
Spontaneously diamond label won't fit on the package, shippers
4.2 Wetted
4 Combustible
White Phosphorus may put the label on a tag securely attached to the
Dangerous When
4.3 Sodium package. For example, compressed gas cylinders
Wet
that will not hold a label will have tags or decals.
5.1 Oxidizers Ammonium Nitrate Labels look like the examples in Figure 9.2.
5
5.2 Organic Peroxides Methyl Ethyl Ketone
Peroxide

6.1 Poison (Toxic Potassium Cyanide

6 Material)
6.2 Infectious Anthrax Virus
Substances
7 - Radioactive Uranium
8 - Corrosives Battery Fluid
Miscellaneous Polychlorinated
9 -
Hazardous Materials Biphenyls (PCB)
ORM-D (Other
Food Flavorings,
e - Regulated Material-
Medicines
Domestic)
- Combustible Liquids Fuel Oil
Figure 9.1

A shipping paper describes the hazardous

materials being transported. Shipping orders, bills
of lading, and manifests are all shipping papers.
Examples of HAZMAT Labels. Figure 9.2
Figure 9.6 shows an example shipping paper.

After an accident or hazardous materials spill or

9.3.3 – Lists of Regulated Products
leak, you may be injured and unable to
communicate the hazards of the materials you are Placards. Placards are used to warn others of
transporting. Firefighters and police can prevent or hazardous materials. Placards are signs put on the
reduce the amount of damage or injury at the outside of a vehicle and on bulk packages, which
scene if they know what hazardous materials are identify the hazard class of the cargo. A placarded

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

vehicle must have at least four identical placards. Column 1 tells which shipping mode(s) the entry
They are put on the front, rear, and both sides of affects and other information concerning the
the vehicle. See Figure 9.3. Placards must be shipping description. The next five columns show
readable from all four directions. They are at least each material's shipping name, hazard class or
10 3/4 inches square, square-on-point, in a division, identification number, packaging group,
diamond shape. Cargo tanks and other bulk and required labels.
packaging display the identification number of their
contents on placards or orange panels or white Six different symbols may appear in Column 1 of
square-on-point displays that are the same size as the table.
placards.
(+) Shows the proper shipping name, hazard
class, and packing group to use, even if
the material doesn't meet the hazard class
definition.
(A) Means the hazardous material described
in Column 2 is subject to the HMR only
when offered or intended for transport by
air unless it is a hazardous substance or
hazardous waste.
(W) Means the hazardous material described
in Column 2 is subject to the HMR only
when offered or intended for transportation
by water unless it is a hazardous
substance, hazardous waste, or marine
pollutant.
(D) Means the proper shipping name is
appropriate for describing materials for
domestic transportation, but may not be
proper for international transportation.
(I) Identifies a proper shipping name that is
Examples of HAZMAT Placards. Figure 9.3 used to describe materials in international
transportation. A different shipping name
Identification numbers are a four-digit code used may be used when only domestic
by first responders to identify hazardous materials. transportation is involved.
An identification number may be used to identify (G) Means this hazardous material described
more than one chemical. The letters “NA or “UN” in Column 2 is a generic shipping name. A
will precede the identification number. The United generic shipping name must be
States Department of Transportation’s Emergency accompanied by a technical name on the
Response Guidebook (ERG) lists the chemicals shipping paper. A technical name is a
and the identification numbers assigned to them. specific chemical that makes the product
hazardous
There are three main lists used by shippers,
carriers, and drivers when trying to identify
Column 2 lists the proper shipping names and
hazardous materials. Before transporting a
descriptions of regulated materials. Entries are in
material, look for its name on three lists. Some
alphabetical order so you can more quickly find the
materials are on all lists, others on only one.
right entry. The table shows proper shipping
Always check the following lists:
names in regular type. The shipping paper must
Section 172.101, the Hazardous Materials Table. show proper shipping names. Names shown in
italics are not proper shipping names.
Appendix A to Section 172.101, the List of
Hazardous Substances and Reportable
Quantities.
Appendix B to Section 172.101, the List of Marine
Pollutants.

The Hazardous Materials Table. Figure 9.4

shows part of the Hazardous Materials Table.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

49 CFR 172.101 Hazardous Materials Table

Packaging (173. ***)

Hazardous Materials Hazard Special

Identification Label
Symbols Description & Proper Class or PG Provisions
Numbers Codes
Shipping Names Division (172.102)
Non
Exceptions Bulk
Bulk

(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8A) (8B) (8C)

A Acetaldehyde ammonia 9 UN1841 III 9 IB8, IP6 155 204 240

Figure 9.4

Appendix A to 49 CFR 172

List of Hazardous Substances and Reportable Quantities

Hazardous Substances Reportable Quantity (RQ) Pounds

(Kilograms)
Phenyl mercaptan @
100 (45.4)
Phenylmercury acetate 100 (45.4)
N-Phenylthiourea 100 (45.4)
Phorate 10 (4.54)
Phosgene
10 (4.54)
Phosphine
100 (45.4) *
Phosphoric acid
5,000 (2270)
Phosphoric acid, diethyl
100 (45.4)
4-nitrophenyl ester

Phosphoric acid, lead salt

10 (.454)
* Spills of 10 pounds or more must be reported.

Figure 9.5

Column 3 shows a material's hazard class or package. It also must appear on cargo tanks and
division, or the entry "Forbidden." Never transport other bulk packaging. Police and firefighters use
a "Forbidden" material. Placard hazardous this number to quickly identify the hazardous
materials shipments based on the quantity and materials.
hazard class. You can decide which placards to
use if you know these three things: Column 5 shows the packing group (in Roman
numeral) assigned to a material.
Material's hazard class.
Amount being shipped. Column 6 shows the hazard warning label(s)
shippers must put on packages of hazardous
Amount of all hazardous materials of all classes
materials. Some products require use of more than
on your vehicle.
one label due to a dual hazard being present.
Column 4 lists the identification number for each
proper shipping name. Identification numbers are
Column 7 lists the additional (special) provisions
preceded by the letters "UN" or "NA." The letters
that apply to this material. When there is an entry
"NA" are associated with proper shipping names
in this column, you must refer to the federal
that are only used within the United States and to regulations for specific information. The numbers
and from Canada. The identification number must 1-6 in this column mean the hazardous material is
appear on the shipping paper as part of the
a poison inhalation hazard (PIH). PIH materials
shipping description and also appear on the

Section 9 - Hazardous Materials Page 9-5

2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

have special requirements for shipping papers, Appendix B to 49 CFR 172.101 – List of Marine
marking, and placards. Pollutants

Column 8 is a three-part column showing the Appendix B is a listing of chemicals that are toxic
section numbers covering the packaging to marine life. For highway transportation, this list
requirements for each hazardous material. is only used for chemicals in a container with a
capacity of 119 gallons or more without a placard
Note: Columns 9 and 10 do not apply to or label as specified by the HMR.
transportation by highway.
Any bulk packages of a Marine Pollutant must
Appendix A to 49 CFR 172.101 - The List of display the Marine Pollutant marking (white triangle
Hazardous Substances and Reportable with a fish and an “X” through the fish). This
Quantities. The DOT and the EPA want to know marking (it is not a placard) must also be displayed
about spills of hazardous substances. They are on the outside of the vehicle. In addition, a notation
named in the List of Hazardous Substances and must be made on the shipping papers near the
Reportable Quantities. See Figure 9.5. Column 3 description of the material: “Marine Pollutant”.
of the list shows each product's reportable quantity
(RQ). When these materials are being transported Shipping Paper
in a reportable quantity or greater in one package, ABC
DEF Page
the shipper displays the letters RQ on the shipping Corporation
Corporation 1 of 1
55
paper and package. The letters RQ may appear TO:
88 Valley
FROM: Mountain
before or after the basic description. You or your Street
Street
Anywhere,
employer must report any spill of these materials, VA
Nowhere,
which occurs in a reportable quantity. CO
Quantity HM Description Weight

If the words INHALATION HAZARD appear on the 1 RQ Phosgene, 2.3, 25 lbs

cylinder UN1076
shipping paper or package, the rules require Poison, Inhalation
display of the POISON INHALATION HAZARD or Hazard,
POISON GAS placards, as appropriate. These (“RQ” Zone A
placards must be used in addition to other means that
placards, which may be required by the product's this is a (Phosgene is the
hazard class. Always display the hazard class reportable proper shipping
placard and the POISON INHALATION HAZARD quantity.) name from Column
placard, even for small amounts. 2 of the Hazardous
Materials Table.)
(2.3 is the Hazard
Class from Column
3 of the Hazardous
Materials Table.)
(Un1076 is the
Identification
Number from
Column 4 of the
Hazardous materials
Table.)
This is to certify that the above named materials are
properly classified, described, packaged marked and
labeled, and are in proper condition for transportation
according to the applicable regulations of the United
States Department of Transportation.

DEF Carrier: Safety

Shipper: Corporation Per: First
Per: Smith Date:
Date: October 15,
2003
Special Instructions: 24 hour Emergency Contact,
John Smith 1-800-555-5555
Figure 9.6

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

9.3.4 – The Shipping Paper telephone number. You should check the
regulations to determine which do need a
The shipping paper shown in Figure 9.6 describes telephone number.
a shipment. A shipping paper for hazardous
materials must include: Shippers also must provide emergency response
information to the motor carrier for each hazardous
material being shipped. The emergency response
Page numbers if the shipping paper has more information must be able to be used away from the
than one page. The first page must tell the total motor vehicle and must provide information on how
number of pages. For example, "Page 1 of 4". to safely handle incidents involving the material. It
A proper shipping description for each hazardous must include information on the shipping name of
material. the hazardous materials, risks to health, fire,
explosion, and initial methods of handling spills,
A shipper's certification, signed by the shipper, fires, and leaks of the materials.
saying they prepared the shipment according to
the regulations. Such information can be on the shipping paper or
some other document that includes the basic
9.3.5 – The Item Description description and technical name of the hazardous
material. Or, it may be in a guidance book such as
If a shipping paper describes both hazardous and the Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG).
non-hazardous products, the hazardous materials Motor carriers may assist shippers by keeping an
will be either: ERG on each vehicle carrying hazardous
Described first. materials. The driver must provide the emergency
response information to any federal, state, or local
Highlighted in a contrasting color. authority responding to a hazardous materials
Identified by an "X" placed before the shipping incident or investigating one.
name in a column captioned "HM". The letters
"RQ" may be used instead of "X" if a reportable Total quantity must appear before or after the
quantity is present in one package. basic description. The packaging type and the unit
of measurement may be abbreviated. For
The basic description of hazardous materials example:
includes the proper shipping name, hazard class or
division, the identification number, and the packing 10 ctns. Paint, 3, UN1263, PG II, 500 lbs.
group, if any, in that order. The packing group is
displayed in Roman numerals and may be The shipper of hazardous wastes must put the
preceded by "PG". word WASTE before the proper shipping name of
the material on the shipping paper (hazardous
Shipping name, hazard class, and identification waste manifest). For example:
number must not be abbreviated unless
specifically authorized in the hazardous materials Waste Acetone, 3, UN1090, PG II.
regulations. The description must also show:
A non-hazardous material may not be described by
The total quantity and unit of measure. using a hazard class or an identification number.
The letters RQ, if a reportable quantity.
9.3.6 – Shipper's Certification
If the letters RQ appear, the name of the
hazardous substance. When the shipper packages hazardous materials,
For all materials with the letter “G” (Generic) in he/she certifies that the package has been
Column 1, the technical name of the hazardous prepared according to the rules. The signed
material. shipper's certification appears on the original
shipping paper. The only exceptions are when a
Shipping papers also must list an emergency shipper is a private carrier transporting their own
response telephone number. The emergency product and when the package is provided by the
response telephone number is the responsibility of carrier (for example, a cargo tank). Unless a
the shipper. It can be used by emergency package is clearly unsafe or does not comply with
responders to obtain information about any the HMR, you may accept the shipper's
hazardous materials involved in a spill or fire. certification concerning proper packaging. Some
Some hazardous materials do not need a carriers have additional rules about transporting

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

hazardous materials. Follow your employer's rules What type of package is being shipped?
when accepting shipments. Cylinders and drums are often used for
hazardous materials shipments.
9.3.7 – Package Markings and Labels Is a hazard class label, proper shipping name, or
identification number on the package?
Shippers print required markings directly on the
package, an attached label, or tag. An important Are there any handling precautions?
package marking is the name of the hazardous
material. It is the same name as the one on the 9.3.9 – Hazardous Waste Manifest
shipping paper. The requirements for marking vary
by package size and material being transported. When transporting hazardous wastes, you must
When required, the shipper will put the following on sign by hand and carry a Uniform Hazardous
the package: Waste Manifest. The name and EPA registration
number of the shippers, carriers, and destination
The name and address of shipper or consignee.
must appear on the manifest. Shippers must
The hazardous material's shipping name and prepare, date, and sign by hand the manifest.
identification number. Treat the manifest as a shipping paper when
transporting the waste. Only give the waste
The labels required.
shipment to another registered carrier or
disposal/treatment facility. Each carrier
It is a good idea to compare the shipping paper to
transporting the shipment must sign by hand the
the markings and labels. Always make sure that
manifest. After you deliver the shipment, keep your
the shipper shows the correct basic description on
copy of the manifest. Each copy must have all
the shipping paper, and verifies that the proper
needed signatures and dates, including those of
labels are shown on the packages. If you are not
the person to whom you delivered the waste.
familiar with the material, ask the shipper to
contact your office.
9.3.10 – Placarding
If rules require it, the shipper will put RQ, MARINE
POLLUTANT, BIOHAZARD, HOT, or Attach the appropriate placards to the vehicle
INHALATION-HAZARD on the package. Packages before you drive it. You are only allowed to move
with liquid containers inside will also have package an improperly placarded vehicle during an
orientation markings with the arrows pointing in the emergency, in order to protect life or property.
correct upright direction. The labels used always
reflect the hazard class of the product. If a package Placards must appear on both sides and both ends
needs more than one label, the labels must be of the vehicle. Each placard must be:
close together, near the proper shipping name. Easily seen from the direction it faces.
Placed so the words or numbers are level and
9.3.8 – Recognizing Hazardous Materials
read from left to right.
Learn to recognize shipments of hazardous At least three inches away from any other
materials. To find out if the shipment includes markings.
hazardous materials, look at the shipping paper.
Kept clear of attachments or devices such as
Does it have:
ladders, doors, and tarpaulins.
An entry with a proper shipping name, hazard
Kept clean and undamaged so that the color,
class, and identification number?
format, and message are easily seen.
A highlighted entry, or one with an X or RQ in the
Be affixed to a background of contrasting color.
hazardous materials column?
The use of “Drive Safely” and other slogans is
Other clues suggesting hazardous materials: prohibited.
What business is the shipper in? Paint dealer? The front placard may be on the front of the
Chemical supply? Scientific supply house? Pest tractor or the front of the trailer.
control or agricultural supplier? Explosives,
munitions, or fireworks dealer? To decide which placards to use, you need to
know:
Are there tanks with diamond labels or placards
on the premises? The hazard class of the materials.

Section 9 - Hazardous Materials Page 9-8

2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

The amount of hazardous materials shipped. POISON GAS or POISON INHALATION placards
in addition to any other placards needed by the
The total weight of all classes of hazardous
product's hazard class. The 1,000 pound exception
materials in your vehicle.
does not apply to these materials.
9.3.11 – Placard Tables Materials with a secondary hazard of dangerous
when wet must display the DANGEROUS WHEN
There are two placard tables, Table 1 and Table 2. WET placard in addition to any other placards
Table 1 materials must be placarded whenever needed by the product’s hazard class. The 1,000-
any amount is transported. See Figure 9.7. pound exception to placarding does not apply to
these materials.
Except for bulk packaging, the hazard classes in
Table 2 need placards only if the total amount
Placard Table 2
transported is 1,001 pounds or more including the
1,001 Pounds Or More
package. Add the amounts from all shipping
papers for all the Table 2 products you have on Category of Material
board. See Figure 9.8. (Hazard class or division
number and additional Placard Name
description, as
Placard Table 1
appropriate)
Any Amount
1.4 Minor Explosion Explosives 1.4
IF YOUR VEHICLE 1.5 Very Insensitive Explosives 1.5
CONTAINS ANY PLACARD AS… 1.6 Extremely Insensitive Explosives 1.6
AMOUNT OF…… 2.1 Flammable Gases Flammable Gas
1.1 Mass Explosives Explosives 1.1 2.2 Non- Flammable Gases Non-Flammable Gas.
1.2 Project Hazards Explosives 1.2 3 Flammable Liquids Flammable
1.3 Mass Fire Hazards Explosives 1.3 Combustible Liquid Combustible*
2.3 Poisonous/Toxic 4.1 Flammable Solids Flammable Solid
Poison Gas
Gases 4.2 Spontaneously Spontaneously
4.3 Dangerous When Combustible Combustible
Dangerous When Wet
Wet 5.1 Oxidizers Oxidizer
5.2 (Organic Peroxide,
5.2 (other than organic
Type B, liquid or solid, peroxide, Type B, liquid or
Organic Peroxide Organic Peroxide
Temperature solid, Temperature
controlled) Controlled)
6.1 (Inhalation hazard
Poison/toxic inhalation
zone A & B only) 6.1 (other than inhalation
7 (Radioactive Yellow Poison
hazard zone A or B)
Radioactive
III label only)
6.2 Infectious Substances (None)
Figure 9.7
8 Corrosives Corrosive
9 Miscellaneous Hazardous
You may use DANGEROUS placards instead of Class 9**
Materials
separate placards for each Table 2 hazard class
ORM-D (None)
when:
* FLAMMABLE may be used in place of a
You have 1,001 pounds or more of two or more COMBUSTIBLE on a cargo tank or portable tank.
Table 2 hazard classes, requiring different ** Class 9 Placard is not required for domestic
placards, and transportation.
Figure 9.8
You have not loaded 2,205 pounds or more of
any Table 2 hazard class material at any one
Placards used to identify the primary or subsidiary
place. (You must use the specific placard for this
hazard class of a material must have the hazard
material.)
class or division number displayed in the lower
The dangerous placard is an option, not a corner of the placard. Permanently affixed
requirement. You can always placard for the subsidiary hazard placards without the hazard
materials. class number may be used as long as they stay
within color specifications.
If the words INHALATION HAZARD are on the
shipping paper or package, you must display

Section 9 - Hazardous Materials Page 9-9

2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Placards may be displayed for hazardous materials your truck, and others could be in danger. It is
even if not required so long as the placard illegal to move a vehicle with leaking hazardous
identifies the hazard of the material being materials.
transported.
Containers of hazardous materials must be braced
Bulk packaging is a single container with a to prevent movement of the packages during
capacity of 119 gallons or more. A bulk package, transportation.
and a vehicle transporting a bulk package, must be
placarded, even if it only has the residue of a No Smoking. When loading or unloading
hazardous material. Certain bulk packages only hazardous materials, keep fire away. Don't let
have to be placarded on the two opposite sides or people smoke nearby. Never smoke around:
may display labels. All other bulk packages must
Class 1 (Explosives)
be placarded on all four sides.
Class 2.1 (Flammable Gas )
Class 3 (Flammable Liquids)
Subsections 9.1, 9.2, and 9.3 Class 4 (Flammable Solids)
Test Your Knowledge Class 5 (Oxidizers)
1. Shippers package in order to (fill in the
Secure Against Movement. Brace containers so
blank) the material.
they will not fall, slide, or bounce around during
2. Driver placard their vehicle to (fill in the
transportation. Be very careful when loading
blank) the risk.
containers that have valves or other fittings. All
3. What three things do you need to know to
hazardous materials packages must be secured
decide which placards (if any) you need?
during transportation.
4. A hazardous materials identification
number must appear on the (fill in the
After loading, do not open any package during
blank) and on the (fill in the blank). The
your trip. Never transfer hazardous materials from
identification number must also appear on
one package to another while in transit. You may
cargo tanks and other bulk packaging.
empty a cargo tank, but do not empty any other
5. Where must you keep shipping papers
package while it is on the vehicle.
describing hazardous materials?
Cargo Heater Rules. There are special cargo
These questions may be on your test. If you can’t
heater rules for loading:
answer them all, re-read subsections 9.1, 9.2 and
9.3. Class 1 (Explosives)
Class 2.1 (Flammable Gas )
Class 3 (Flammable Liquids)
9.4 – Loading and Unloading
The rules usually forbid use of cargo heaters,
Do all you can to protect containers of hazardous including automatic cargo heater/air conditioner
materials. Don't use any tools, which might units. Unless you have read all the related rules,
damage containers or other packaging during don't load the above products in a cargo space that
loading. Don't use hooks. has a heater.

9.4.1 – General Loading Requirements Use Closed Cargo Space. You cannot have
overhang or tailgate loads of:
Before loading or unloading, set the parking brake.
Make sure the vehicle will not move. Class 1 (Explosives)
Class 4 (Flammable Solids)
Many products become more hazardous when
exposed to heat. Load hazardous materials away Class 5 (Oxidizers)
from heat sources.
You must load these hazardous materials into a
Watch for signs of leaking or damaged containers: closed cargo space unless all packages are:
LEAKS SPELL TROUBLE! Do not transport Fire and water resistant.
leaking packages. Depending on the material, you,
Covered with a fire and water resistant tarp.

Section 9 - Hazardous Materials Page 9-10

2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

dangerous when wet, must be kept dry while in

Precautions for Specific Hazards transit and during loading and unloading. Materials
that are subject to spontaneous combustion or
Class 1 (Explosives) Materials. Turn your engine heating must be in vehicles with sufficient
off before loading or unloading any explosives. ventilation.
Then check the cargo space. You must:
Class 8 (Corrosive) Materials. If loading by hand,
load breakable containers of corrosive liquid one
Disable cargo heaters. Disconnect heater power
by one. Keep them right side up. Do not drop or
sources and drain heater fuel tanks.
roll the containers. Load them onto an even floor
Make sure there are no sharp points that might surface. Stack carboys only if the lower tiers can
damage cargo. Look for bolts, screws, nails, bear the weight of the upper tiers safely.
broken side panels, and broken floorboards.
Do not load nitric acid above any other product.

Use a floor lining with Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3. Load charged storage batteries so their liquid won't
The floors must be tight and the liner must be spill. Keep them right side up. Make sure other
either non-metallic material or non-ferrous metal. cargo won't fall against or short circuit them.

Use extra care to protect explosives. Never use Never load corrosive liquids next to or above:
hooks or other metal tools. Never drop, throw, or
Division 1.4 (Explosives C).
roll packages. Protect explosive packages from
other cargo that might cause damage. Division 4.1 (Flammable Solids).
Division 4.3 (Dangerous When Wet).
Do not transfer a Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3 from one
vehicle to another on a public roadway except in Class 5 (Oxidizers).
an emergency. If safety requires an emergency
Division 2.3, Zone B (Poisonous Gases).
transfer, set out red warning reflectors, flags, or
electric lanterns. You must warn others on the
Never load corrosive liquids with:
road.
Division 1.1 or 1.2..
Never transport damaged packages of explosives.
Do not take a package that shows any dampness Division 1.2 or 1.3).
or oily stain. Division 1.5 (Blasting Agents).

Do not transport Division 1.1 or 1.2 in vehicle Division 2.3, Zone A (Poisonous Gases).
combinations if: Division 4.2 (Spontaneously Combustible
Materials).
There is a marked or placarded cargo tank in the Division 6.1, PGI, Zone A (Poison Liquids).
combination.
The other vehicle in the combination contains: Class 2 (Compressed Gases) Including
Cryogenic Liquids. If your vehicle doesn't have
- Division 1.1 A (Initiating Explosives). racks to hold cylinders, the cargo space floor must
- Packages of Class 7 (Radioactive) be flat. The cylinders must be:
materials labeled "Yellow III."
- Division 2.3 (Poisonous Gas) or Division Held upright.
6.1 (Poisonous) materials. In racks attached to the vehicle or in boxes that
- Hazardous materials in a portable tank, will keep them from turning over.
on a DOT Spec 106A or 110A tank.
Cylinders may be loaded in a horizontal position
Class 4 (Flammable Solids) and Class 5 (lying down) if it is designed so the relief valve is in
(Oxidizers) Materials. Class 4 materials are solids the vapor space.
that react (including fire and explosion) to water,
heat, and air or even react spontaneously. Division 2.3 (Poisonous Gas) or Division 6.1
(Poisonous) Materials. Never transport these
Class 4 and 5 materials must be completely materials in containers with interconnections.
enclosed in a vehicle or covered securely. Class 4 Never load a package labeled POISON or
and 5 materials, which become unstable and POISON INHALATION HAZARD in the driver's cab

Section 9 - Hazardous Materials Page 9-11

2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

or sleeper or with food material for human or Table for Hazardous Materials) name other
animal consumption. There are special rules for materials you must keep apart.
loading and unloading Class 2 materials in cargo
tanks. You must have special training to do this.

Class 7 (Radioactive) Materials. Some packages

of Class 7 (Radioactive) materials bear a number
called the "transport index." The shipper labels Subsection 9.4
these packages Radioactive II or Radioactive III, Test Your Knowledge
and prints the package's transport index on the 1. Around which hazard classes must you
label. Radiation surrounds each package, passing never smoke?
through all nearby packages. To deal with this 2. Which three hazard classes should not be
problem, the number of packages you can load loaded into a trailer that has a heater/air
together is controlled. Their closeness to people, conditioner unit?
animals, and unexposed film is also controlled. 3. Should the floor liner required for Division
The transport index tells the degree of control 1.1 or 1.2 materials be stainless steel?
needed during transportation. The total transport 4. At the shipper’s dock you’re given a paper
index of all packages in a single vehicle must not for 100 cartons of battery acid. You
exceed 50.Table A to this section shows rules for already have 100 pounds of dry Silver
each transport index. It shows how close you can Cyanide on board. What precautions do
load Class 7 (Radioactive) materials to people, you have to take?
animals, or film. For example, you can't leave a 5. Name a hazard class that uses transport
package with a transport index of 1.1 within two indexes to determine the amount that can
feet of people or cargo space walls. be loaded in a single vehicle.

Do Not Load Table These questions may be on your test. If you can’t
Do Not Load In The Same Vehicle With answer them all, re-read subsection 9.4.
Animal or human food unless the
Division 6.1 or 2.3 poison package is over packed in
(POISON or poison an approved way. Foodstuffs are
inhalation hazard anything you swallow. However,
labeled material). mouthwash, toothpaste, and skin
creams are not foodstuff. 9.5 – Bulk Packaging Marking, Loading
Division 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 Explosives,
Division 5.1 (Oxidizers), Class 3 and Unloading
Division 2.3 (Flammable Liquids), Class 8
(Poisonous) gas Zone (Corrosive Liquids), Division 5.2 The glossary at the end of this section gives the
A or Division 6.1 (Organic Peroxides),
(Poison) liquids, PGI, Division 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 Explosives, meaning of the word bulk. Cargo tanks are bulk
Zone A. Division 1.5 (Blasting Agents), packaging permanently attached to a vehicle.
Division 2.1 (Flammable Gases), Cargo tanks remain on the vehicle when you load
Class 4 (Flammable Solids). and unload them. Portable tanks are bulk
Charged storage
batteries.
Division 1.1. packaging, which are not permanently attached to
Any other explosives unless in a vehicle. The product is loaded or unloaded while
Class 1 (Detonating
primers).
authorized containers or the portable tanks are off the vehicle. Portable
packages. tanks are then put on a vehicle for transportation.
Acids, corrosive materials, or other There are many types of cargo tanks in use. The
acidic materials which could
Division 6.1 release hydrocyanic acid . most common cargo tanks are MC306 for liquids
(Cyanides or cyanide For Example: and MC331 for gases.
mixtures). Cyanides, Inorganic, n.o.s.
Silver Cyanide
Sodium Cyanide.
9.5.1 – Markings
Other materials unless the nitric You must display the identification number of the
Nitric acid (Class 8). acid is not loaded above any other hazardous materials in portable tanks and cargo
material. tanks and other bulk packaging (such as dump
Figure 9.9 trucks). Identification numbers are in column 4 of
the Hazardous Materials Table. The rules require
Mixed loads. The rules require some products to black 100 mm (3.9 inch) numbers on orange
be loaded separately. You cannot load them panels, placards, or a white, diamond-shaped
together in the same cargo space. Figure 9.9 lists background if no placards are required.
some examples. The regulations (the Segregation Specification cargo tanks must show re-test date
markings.

Section 9 - Hazardous Materials Page 9-12

2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Portable tanks must also show the lessee or 9.5.4 – Compressed Gas
owner's name. They must also display the shipping
name of the contents on two opposing sides. The Keep liquid discharge valves on a compressed gas
letters of the shipping name must be at least two tank closed except when loading and unloading.
inches tall on portable tanks with capacities of Unless your engine runs a pump for product
more than 1,000 gallons and one-inch tall on transfer, turn it off when loading or unloading. If
portable tanks with capacities of less than 1,000 you use the engine, turn it off after product
gallons. The identification number must appear on transfer, before you unhook the hose. Unhook all
each side and each end of a portable tank or other loading/unloading connections before coupling,
bulk packaging that hold 1,000 gallons or more uncoupling, or moving a cargo tank. Always chock
and on two opposing sides, if the portable tank trailers and semi-trailers to prevent motion when
holds less than 1,000 gallons. The identification uncoupled from the power unit.
numbers must still be visible when the portable
tank is on the motor vehicle. If they are not visible,
you must display the identification number on both Subsection 9.5
sides and ends of the motor vehicle.
Test Your Knowledge
Intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) are bulk
1. What are cargo tanks?
packages, but are not required to have the owner’s
2. How is a portable tank different from a
name or shipping name.
cargo tank?
3. Your engine runs a pump used during
9.5.2 – Tank Loading delivery of compressed gas. Should you
turn off the engine before or after
The person in charge of loading and unloading a unhooking hoses after delivery?
cargo tank must be sure a qualified person is
always watching. This person watching the loading These questions may be on your test. If you can’t
or unloading must: answer them all, re-read subsection 9.5.
Be alert.
Have a clear view of the cargo tank.
Be within 25 feet of the tank.
9.6 – Hazardous Materials -- Driving
Know of the hazards of the materials involved.
and Parking Rules
Know the procedures to follow in an emergency.
Be authorized to move the cargo tank and able to
9.6.1 – Parking with Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3
do so. Explosives

There are special attendance rules for cargo tanks Never park with Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3 explosives
transporting propane and anhydrous ammonia. within five feet of the traveled part of the road.
Except for short periods of time needed for vehicle
Close all manholes and valves before moving a operation necessities (e.g., fueling), do not park
tank of hazardous materials, no matter how small within 300 feet of:
the amount in the tank or how short the distance. A bridge, tunnel, or building.
Manholes and valves must be closed to prevent
leaks. It is illegal to move a cargo tank with open A place where people gather.
valves or covers unless it is empty according to 49 An open fire.
CFR 173.29.
If you must park to do your job, do so only briefly.
9.5.3 – Flammable Liquids
Don't park on private property unless the owner is
Turn off your engine before loading or unloading aware of the danger. Someone must always watch
any flammable liquids. Only run the engine if the parked vehicle. You may let someone else
needed to operate a pump. Ground a cargo tank watch it for you only if your vehicle is:
correctly before filling it through an open filling
hole. Ground the tank before opening the filling On the shipper's property.
hole, and maintain the ground until after closing On the carrier's property.
the filling hole.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

On the consignee's property. If you work for a carrier, ask your dispatcher about
route restrictions or permits. If you are an
You are allowed to leave your vehicle unattended independent trucker and are planning a new route,
in a safe haven. A safe haven is an approved check with state agencies where you plan to travel.
place for parking unattended vehicles loaded with Some localities prohibit transportation of
explosives. Designation of authorized safe havens hazardous materials through tunnels, over bridges,
is usually made by local authorities. or other roadways. Always check before you start.

9.6.2 – Parking a Placarded Vehicle Not Whenever placarded, avoid heavily populated
Transporting Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3) areas, crowds, tunnels, narrow streets, and alleys.
Explosives Take other routes, even if inconvenient, unless
there is no other way. Never drive a placarded
You may park a placarded vehicle (not laden with vehicle near open fires unless you can safely pass
explosives) within five feet of the traveled part of without stopping.
the road only if your work requires it. Do so only
briefly. Someone must always watch the vehicle If transporting Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3 explosives,
when parked on a public roadway or shoulder. Do you must have a written route plan and follow that
not uncouple a trailer and leave it with hazardous plan. Carriers prepare the route plan in advance
materials on a public street. Do not park within 300 and give the driver a copy. You may plan the route
feet of an open fire. yourself if you pick up the explosives at a location
other than your employer's terminal. Write out the
9.6.3 – Attending Parked Vehicles plan in advance. Keep a copy of it with you while
transporting the explosives. Deliver shipments of
The person attending a placarded vehicle must: explosives only to authorized persons or leave
them in locked rooms designed for explosives
Be in the vehicle, awake, and not in the sleeper storage.
berth, or within 100 feet of the vehicle and have it
within clear view. A carrier must choose the safest route to transport
placarded radioactive materials. After choosing the
Be aware of the hazards of the materials being
route, the carrier must tell the driver about the
transported.
radioactive materials, and show the route plan.
Know what to do in emergencies.
Be able to move the vehicle, if needed. 9.6.6 – No Smoking

Do not smoke within 25 feet of a placarded cargo

9.6.4 – No Flares!
tank used for Class 3 (flammable liquids) or
Division 2.1 (gases). Also, do not smoke or carry a
You might break down and have to use stopped
lighted cigarette, cigar, or pipe within 25 feet of any
vehicle signals. Use reflective triangles or red
vehicle, which contains:
electric lights. Never use burning signals, such as
flares or fuses, around a: Class 1 (Explosives)
Tank used for Class 3 (Flammable Liquids) or Class 3 (Flammable Liquids)
Division 2.1 (Flammable Gas) whether loaded or
Class 4 (Flammable Solids)
empty.
Class 4.2 (Spontaneously Combustible)
Vehicle loaded with Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3
Explosives.
9.6.7 – Refuel with Engine Off
9.6.5 – Route Restrictions
Turn off your engine before fueling a motor vehicle
containing hazardous materials. Someone must
Some states and counties require permits to
always be at the nozzle, controlling fuel flow.
transport hazardous materials or wastes. They
may limit the routes you can use. Local rules about
routes and permits change often. It is your job as
9.6.8 – 10 B:C Fire Extinguisher
driver to find out if you need permits or must use
The power unit of placarded vehicles must have a
special routes. Make sure you have all needed
fire extinguisher with a UL rating of 10 B:C or
papers before starting.
more.

Section 9 - Hazardous Materials Page 9-14

2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

9.6.9 – Check Tires You must be familiar with, and have in your
possession while driving, the:
Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Check Shipping papers.
placarded vehicles with dual tires at the start of
each trip and when you park. You must check the Written emergency instructions.
tires each time you stop. The only acceptable way
Written route plan.
to check tire pressure is to use a tire pressure
gauge. A copy of FMCSR, Part 397.

Do not drive with a tire that is leaking or flat except 9.6.11 – Equipment for Chlorine
to the nearest safe place to fix it. Remove any
overheated tire. Place it a safe distance from your A driver transporting chlorine in cargo tanks must
vehicle. Don't drive until you correct the cause of have an approved gas mask in the vehicle. The
the overheating. Remember to follow the rules driver must also have an emergency kit for
about parking and attending placarded vehicles. controlling leaks in dome cover plate fittings on the
They apply even when checking, repairing, or cargo tank.
replacing tires.
9.6.12 – Stop Before Railroad Crossings
9.6.10 – Where to Keep Shipping Papers
and Emergency Response Information Stop before a railroad crossing if your vehicle:
Is placarded.
Do not accept a hazardous materials shipment
without a properly prepared shipping paper. A Carries any amount of chlorine.
shipping paper for hazardous materials must
Has cargo tanks, whether loaded or empty used
always be easily recognized. Other people must be
for hazardous materials.
able to find it quickly after a crash.
Clearly distinguish hazardous materials shipping You must stop 15 to 50 feet before the nearest rail.
papers from others by tabbing them or keeping Proceed only when you are sure no train is coming
them on top of the stack of papers. and you can clear the tracks without stopping.
Don't shift gears while crossing the tracks.
When you are behind the wheel, keep shipping
papers within your reach (with your seat belt on),
or in a pouch on the driver's door. They must be 9.7 – Hazardous Materials -
easily seen by someone entering the cab. Emergencies
When not behind the wheel, leave shipping
9.7.1 – Emergency Response Guidebook
papers in the driver's door pouch or on the
driver's seat. (ERG)

Emergency response information must be kept in The Department of Transportation has a

the same location as the shipping paper. guidebook for firefighters, police, and industry
workers on how to protect themselves and the
Papers for Division 1.1, 1.2 or, 1.3 Explosives.
public from hazardous materials. The guide is
indexed by proper shipping name and hazardous
A carrier must give each driver transporting
materials identification number. Emergency
Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3 explosives a copy of
personnel look for these things on the shipping
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations
paper. That is why it is vital that the proper
(FMCSR), Part 397. The carrier must also give
shipping name, identification number, label, and
written instructions on what to do if delayed or in
placards are correct.
an accident. The written instructions must include:
The names and telephone numbers of people to 9.7.2 – Crashes/Incidents
contact (including carrier agents or shippers).
The nature of the explosives transported. As a professional driver, your job at the scene of a
crash or an incident is to:
The precautions to take in emergencies such as
fires, accidents, or leaks. Keep people away from the scene.
Limit the spread of material, only if you can safely
Drivers must sign a receipt for these documents. do so.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Communicate the danger of the hazardous Remember, the carrier pays for the cleanup of
materials to emergency response personnel. contaminated parking lots, roadways, and drainage
ditches. The costs are enormous, so don't leave a
Provide emergency responders with the shipping
lengthy trail of contamination. If hazardous
papers and emergency response information.
materials are spilling from your vehicle:
Follow this checklist: Park it.
Check to see that your driving partner is OK. Secure the area.
Keep shipping papers with you. Stay there.
Keep people far away and upwind. Send someone else for help.
Warn others of the danger.
When sending someone for help, give that person:
Call for help.
A description of the emergency.
Follow your employer's instructions.
Your exact location and direction of travel.

9.7.3 – Fires Your name, the carrier's name, and the name of
the community or city where your terminal is
You might have to control minor truck fires on the located.
road. However, unless you have the training and The proper shipping name, hazard class, and
equipment to do so safely, don't fight hazardous identification number of the hazardous materials,
materials fires. Dealing with hazardous materials if you know them.
fires requires special training and protective gear.
This is a lot for someone to remember. It is a good
When you discover a fire, call for help. You may idea to write it all down for the person you send for
use the fire extinguisher to keep minor truck fires help. The emergency response team must know
from spreading to cargo before firefighters arrive. these things to find you and to handle the
Feel trailer doors to see if they are hot before emergency. They may have to travel miles to get
opening them. If hot, you may have a cargo fire to you. This information will help them to bring the
and should not open the doors. Opening doors lets right equipment the first time, without having to go
air in and may make the fire flare up. Without air, back for it.
many fires only smolder until firemen arrive, doing
less damage. If your cargo is already on fire, it is Never move your vehicle, if doing so will cause
not safe to fight the fire. Keep the shipping papers contamination or damage the vehicle. Keep
with you to give to emergency personnel as soon upwind and away from roadside rests, truck stops,
as they arrive. Warn other people of the danger cafes, and businesses. Never try to repack leaking
and keep them away. containers. Unless you have the training and
equipment to repair leaks safely, don't try it. Call
If you discover a cargo leak, identify the hazardous your dispatcher or supervisor for instructions and, if
materials leaking by using shipping papers, labels, needed, emergency personnel.
or package location. Do not touch any leaking
material--many people injure themselves by 9.7.4 – Responses to Specific Hazards
touching hazardous materials. Do not try to identify
the material or find the source of a leak by smell. Class 1 (Explosives). If your vehicle has a
Toxic gases can destroy your sense of smell and breakdown or accident while carrying explosives,
can injure or kill you even if they don't smell. Never warn others of the danger. Keep bystanders away.
eat, drink, or smoke around a leak or spill. Do not allow smoking or open fire near the vehicle.
If there is a fire, warn everyone of the danger of
If hazardous materials are spilling from your explosion.
vehicle, do not move it any more than safety
requires. You may move off the road and away
Remove all explosives before separating vehicles
from places where people gather, if doing so
involved in a collision. Place the explosives at least
serves safety. Only move your vehicle if you can
200 feet from the vehicles and occupied buildings.
do so without danger to yourself or others. Stay a safe distance away.
Never continue driving with hazardous materials Class 2 (Compressed Gases). If compressed gas
leaking from your vehicle in order to find a phone is leaking from your vehicle, warn others of the
booth, truck stop, help, or similar reason.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

danger. Only permit those involved in removing the inhale the material. Do not use the vehicle until it is
hazard or wreckage to get close. You must notify cleaned and checked with a survey meter.
the shipper if compressed gas is involved in any
accident. Class 8 (Corrosive Materials). If corrosives spill
or leak during transportation, be careful to avoid
Unless you are fueling machinery used in road further damage or injury when handling the
construction or maintenance, do not transfer a containers. Parts of the vehicle exposed to a
flammable compressed gas from one tank to corrosive liquid must be thoroughly washed with
another on any public roadway. water. After unloading, wash out the interior as
soon as possible before reloading.
Class 3 (Flammable Liquids). If you are
transporting a flammable liquid and have an If continuing to transport a leaking tank would be
accident or your vehicle breaks down, prevent unsafe, get off the road. If safe to do so, contain
bystanders from gathering. Warn people of the any liquid leaking from the vehicle. Keep
danger. Keep them from smoking. bystanders away from the liquid and its fumes. Do
everything possible to prevent injury to yourself
Never transport a leaking cargo tank farther than and to others.
needed to reach a safe place. Get off the roadway
if you can do so safely. Don't transfer flammable 9.7.5 – Required Notification
liquid from one vehicle to another on a public
roadway except in an emergency. The National Response Center helps coordinate
emergency response to chemical hazards. It is a
Class 4 (Flammable Solids) and Class 5 resource to the police and firefighters. It maintains
(Oxidizing Materials). If a flammable solid or a 24-hour toll-free line listed below. You or your
oxidizing material spills, warn others of the fire employer must phone when any of the following
hazard. Do not open smoldering packages of occur as a direct result of a hazardous materials
flammable solids. Remove them from the vehicle if incident:
you can safely do so. Also, remove unbroken
packages if it will decrease the fire hazard. A person is killed.
An injured person requires hospitalization.
Class 6 (Poisonous Materials and Infectious
Substances). It is your job to protect yourself, Estimated property damage exceeds $50,000.
other people, and property from harm. Remember The general public is evacuated for more than
that many products classed as poison are also one hour.
flammable. If you think a Division 2.3 (Poison
Gases) or Division 6.1 (Poison Materials) might be One or more major transportation arteries or
flammable, take the added precautions needed for facilities are closed for one hour or more.
flammable liquids or gases. Do not allow smoking, Fire, breakage, spillage, or suspected radioactive
open flame, or welding. Warn others of the hazards contamination occurs.
of fire, of inhaling vapors, or coming in contact with
the poison. Fire, breakage, spillage or suspected
contamination occur involving shipment of
A vehicle involved in a leak of Division 2.3 (Poison etiologic agents (bacteria or toxins).
Gases) or Division 6.1 (Poisons) must be checked A situation exists of such a nature (e.g.,
for stray poison before being used again. continuing danger to life exists at the scene of an
incident) that, in the judgment of the carrier,
If a Division 6.2 (Infectious Substances) package is should be reported.
damaged in handling or transportation, you should
immediately contact your supervisor. Packages National Response Center
that appear to be damaged or show signs of (800) 424-8802
leakage should not be accepted.
Persons telephoning the National Response
Class 7 (Radioactive Materials). If radioactive Center should be ready to give:
material is involved in a leak or broken package,
tell your dispatcher or supervisor as soon as Their name.
possible. If there is a spill, or if an internal Name and address of the carrier they work for.
container might be damaged, do not touch or
Phone number where they can be reached.

Section 9 - Hazardous Materials Page 9-17

2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Date, time, and location of incident. Do not leave radioactive yellow - II or yellow - III
labeled packages near people, animals, or film
The extent of injuries, if any.
longer than shown in Figure 9.10
Classification, name, and quantity of hazardous
materials involved, if such information is Classes of Hazardous Materials
available.
Hazardous materials are categorized into nine
Type of incident and nature of hazardous major hazard classes and additional categories for
materials involvement and whether a continuing
consumer commodities and combustible liquids.
danger to life exists at the scene.
The classes of hazardous materials are listed in
Figure 9.11.
If a reportable quantity of hazardous substance
was involved, the caller should give the name of
the shipper and the quantity of the hazardous
Hazard Class Definitions
substance discharged.
Table B
Class Class Name Example
Be prepared to give your employer the required
Ammunition,
information as well. Carriers must make detailed
1 Explosives Dynamite,
written reports within 30 days of an incident.
Fireworks
CHEMTREC Propane, Oxygen,
2 Gases
(800) 424-9300 Helium
Gasoline Fuel,
3 Flammable
The Chemical Transportation Emergency Center Acetone
(CHEMTREC) in Washington also has a 24-hour Flammable
4 Matches, Fuses
toll-free line. CHEMTREC was created to provide Solids
emergency personnel with technical information Ammonium
about the physical properties of hazardous 5 Oxidizers Nitrate, Hydrogen
materials. The National Response Center and Peroxide
CHEMTREC are in close communication. If you Pesticides,
6 Poisons
call either one, they will tell the other about the Arsenic
problem when appropriate. Uranium,
7 Radioactive
Plutonium
Radioactive Separation Hydrochloric Acid,
8 Corrosives
Table A Battery Acid
Miscellaneous
TRANSPORT

TO PEOPLE OR CARGO

Formaldehyde,
MINIMUM DISTANCE IN FEET TO 9 Hazardous
Asbestos
NEAREST UNDEVELOPED FILM Materials
ORM-D (Other
COMPARTMENT

Regulated Hair Spray or

PARTITIONS

None
Material- Charcoal
0-2 2-4 4-8 8-12 Over 12
Domestic)
TOTAL
INDEX

Hrs. Hrs. Hrs. Hrs. Hrs.

Combustible Fuel Oils, Lighter
None
Liquids Fluid
None 0 0 0 0 0 0 Figure 9.11
0.1 to
1 2 3 4 5 1
1.0
1.1 to
3 4 6 8 11 2
5.0
5.1 to
4 6 9 11 15 3
10.0
10.1 to
5 8 12 16 22 4
20.0
20.1 to
7 10 15 20 29 5
30.0
30.1 to
8 11 17 22 33 6
40.0
40.1 to
9 12 19 24 36
50.0
Figure 9.10

Section 9 - Hazardous Materials Page 9-18

2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

3. A water capacity greater than 454 kg (1000

pounds) as a receptacle for a gas as defined
in Sec. 173.115.
Subsections 9.6 and 9.7
Test Your Knowledge Cargo tank - A bulk packaging which:
1. Is a tank intended primarily for the carriage of
1. If your placarded trailer has dual tires, how
liquids or gases and includes appurtenances,
often should you check the tires?
reinforcements, fittings, and closures (for
2. What is a safe haven?
"tank", see 49 CFR 178.345-1(c), 178.337-1,
3. How close to the traveled part of the
or 178.338-1, as applicable);
roadway can you park with Division 1.2 or
2. Is permanently attached to or forms a part of
1.3 materials?
a motor vehicle, or is not permanently
4. How close can you park to a bridge,
attached to a motor vehicle but which, by
tunnel, or building with the same load?
reason of its size, construction, or attachment
5. What type of fire extinguisher must
to a motor vehicle is loaded or unloaded
placarded vehicles carry?
without being removed from the motor
6. You’re hauling 100 pounds of Division 4.3
vehicle; and
(dangerous when wet) materials. Do you
3. Is not fabricated under a specification for
need to stop before a railroad-highway
cylinders, portable tanks, tank cars, or
crossing?
multi-unit tank car tanks.
7. At a rest area you discover your hazardous
materials shipments slowly leaking from
Carrier – A person engaged in the transportation
the vehicle. There is no phone around.
of passengers or property by:
What should you do?
8. What is the Emergency Response Guide 1. Land or water as a common, contract, or
(ERG)? private carrier, or
2. Civil aircraft.
These questions may be on your test. If you can’t
answer them all, re-read subsections 9.6 and 9.7. Consignee – The business or person to whom a
shipment is delivered.

Division – A subdivision of a hazard class.

9.8 – Hazardous Materials Glossary EPA – U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

This glossary presents definitions of certain terms FMCSR – The Federal Motor Carrier Safety
used in this section. A complete glossary of terms Regulations.
can be found in the federal Hazardous Materials
Rules (49 CFR 171.8). You should have an up-to- Freight container – a reusable container having a
date copy of these rules for your reference. volume of 64 cubic feet or more, designed and
constructed to permit being lifted with its contents
(Note: You will not be tested on this glossary.) intact and intended primarily for containment of
packages (in unit form) during transportation.
Sec. 171.8 Definitions and abbreviations.
Fuel tank – A tank, other than a cargo tank, used
Bulk packaging – Packaging, other than a vessel, to transport flammable or combustible liquid or
or a barge, including a transport vehicle or freight compressed gas for the purpose of supplying fuel
container, in which hazardous materials are loaded for propulsion of the transport vehicle to which it is
with no intermediate form of containment and attached, or for the operation of other equipment
which has: on the transport vehicle.
1. A maximum capacity greater than 450 L (119
gallons) as a receptacle for a liquid; Gross weight or gross mass – The weight of the
2. A maximum net mass greater than 400 kg packaging plus the weight of its contents.
(882 pounds) or a maximum capacity greater
than 450 L (119 gallons) as a receptacle for a Hazard class – The category of hazard assigned
solid; or to a hazardous material under the definitional
criteria of Part 173 and the provisions of the Sec.
172.101 Table. A material may meet the defining

Section 9 - Hazardous Materials Page 9-19

2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

criteria for more than one hazard class but is United States are set forth in subparts N and O
assigned to only one hazard class. §178.

Hazardous materials – A substance or material Limited quantity – The maximum amount of a

which has been determined by the Secretary of hazardous material for which there may be specific
Transportation to be capable of posing an labeling or packaging exception.
unreasonable risk to health, safety, and property
when transported in commerce, and which has Marking – The descriptive name, identification
been so designated. The term includes hazardous number, instructions, cautions, weight,
substances, hazardous wastes, marine pollutants, specification, or UN marks or combinations thereof,
elevated temperature materials and materials required by this subchapter on outer packaging of
designated as hazardous in the hazardous hazardous materials.
materials table of §172.101, and materials that
meet the defining criteria for hazard classes and Mixture – A material composed of more than one
divisions in §173, subchapter c of this chapter. chemical compound or element.

Hazardous substance - A material, including its Name of contents – The proper shipping name as
mixtures and solutions, that: specified in Sec. 172.101.
1. Is listed in Appendix A to Sec. 172.101;
2. Is in a quantity, in one package, which equals Non-bulk packaging - A packaging, which has:
or exceeds the reportable quantity (RQ)
listed in Appendix A to Sec. 172.101; and 1. A maximum capacity of 450 L (119 gallons)
3. When in a mixture or solution - as a receptacle for a liquid;
(i) For radionuclides, conforms to paragraph 2. A maximum net mass less than 400 kg (882
7 of Appendix A to Sec. 172.101. pounds) and a maximum capacity of 450 L
(ii) For other than radionuclides, is in a (119 gallons) or less as a receptacle for a
concentration by weight which equals or solid; or
exceeds the concentration corresponding 3. A water capacity greater than 454 kg (1,000
to the RQ of the material, as shown in pounds) or less as a receptacle for a gas as
Figure 9.12. defined in Sec. 173.115.

Hazardous Substance Concentrations N.O.S. - Not otherwise specified.

Concentration by Weight
RQ Pounds Outage or ullage – The amount by which a
(Kilograms Percent PPM packaging falls short of being liquid full, usually
5,000 10 100,000 expressed in percent by volume.
(2,270)
1,000 (454) 2 20,000 Portable tank – Bulk packaging (except a cylinder
100 (45.4) .2 2,000 having a water capacity of 1,000 pounds or less)
designed primarily to be loaded onto, or on, or
10 (4.54) .02 200
temporarily attached to a transport vehicle or ship
1 (0.454) .002 20
and equipped with skids, mountings, or
Figure 9.12 accessories to facilitate handling of the tank by
mechanical means. It does not include a cargo
This definition does not apply to petroleum tank, tank car, multi-unit tank car tank, or trailer
products that are lubricants or fuels (see 40 CFR carrying 3AX, 3AAX, or 3T cylinders.
300.6).
Proper shipping name – The name of the
Hazardous waste – For the purposes of this hazardous materials shown in Roman print (not
chapter, means any material that is subject to the italics) in Sec. 172.101.
Hazardous Waste Manifest Requirements of the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency specified in P.s.i. or psi – Pounds per square inch.
40 CFR Part 262.
P.s.i.a. or psia – Pounds per square inch
Intermediate bulk container (IBC) – A rigid or absolute.
flexible portable packaging, other than a cylinder or
portable tank, which is designed for mechanical Reportable quantity (RQ) - The quantity specified
handling. Standards for IBCs manufactured in the in Column 2 of the Appendix to Sec. 172.101 for

Section 9 - Hazardous Materials Page 9-20

2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

any material identified in Column 1 of the

Appendix.

RSPA – now PHMSA – The Pipeline and

Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, U.S.
Department of Transportation, Washington, DC
20590.

Shipper's certification – A statement on a

shipping paper, signed by the shipper, saying
he/she prepared the shipment properly according
to law. For example:

"This is to certify that the above named

materials are properly classified, described, packaged,
marked and labeled, and are in proper condition for
transportation according to the applicable regulations or
the Department of Transportation." or
"I hereby declare that the contents of this
consignment are fully and accurately described above by
the proper shipping name and are classified, packaged,
marked and labeled/placarded, and are in all respects in
proper condition for transport by * according to
applicable international and national government
regulations."

* words may be inserted here to indicate mode

of transportation (rail, aircraft, motor vehicle, vessel)

Shipping paper – A shipping order, bill of lading,

manifest, or other shipping document serving a
similar purpose and containing the information
required by Sec. 172.202, 172.203, and 172.204.

Technical name – A recognized chemical name or

microbiological name currently used in scientific
and technical handbooks, journals, and texts.

Transport vehicle – A cargo-carrying vehicle such

as an automobile, van, tractor, truck, semi-trailer,
tank car, or rail car used for the transportation of
cargo by any mode. Each cargo-carrying body
(trailer, rail car, etc.) is a separate transport
vehicle.

UN standard packaging – A specification

packaging conforming to the standards in the UN
recommendations.

UN – United Nations.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Section 10
SCHOOL BUSES
This Section Covers

• Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors

• Loading and Unloading
• Emergency Exit and Evacuation
• Railroad-highway Grade Crossings
• Student Management
• Antilock Braking Systems
• Special Safety Considerations
Because state and local laws and regulations
regulate so much of school transportation and
school bus operations, many of the procedures in
this section may differ from state to state. You
should be thoroughly familiar with the laws and
regulations in your state and local school district.

10.1 – Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors

10.1.1 – Danger Zones

The danger zone is the area on all sides of the bus

where children are in the most danger of being hit, Figure 10.1
either by another vehicle or their own bus. The
danger zones may extend as much as 30 feet from 10.1.3 – Outside Left and Right Side Flat
the front bumper with the first 10 feet being the Mirrors
most dangerous, 10 feet from the left and right
sides of the bus and 10 feet behind the rear These mirrors are mounted at the left and right
bumper of the school bus. In addition, the area to front corners of the bus at the side or front of the
the left of the bus is always considered dangerous windshield. They are used to monitor traffic, check
because of passing cars. Figure 10.1 illustrates clearances and students on the sides and to the
these danger zones. rear of the bus. There is a blind spot immediately
below and in front of each mirror and directly in
10.1.2 – Correct Mirror Adjustment back of the rear bumper. The blind spot behind the
bus extends 50 to 150 feet and could extend up to
Proper adjustment and use of all mirrors is vital to 400 feet depending on the length and width of the
the safe operation of the school bus in order to bus.
observe the danger zone around the bus and look
for students, traffic, and other objects in this area. Ensure that the mirrors are properly adjusted so
You should always check each mirror before you can see:
operating the school bus to obtain maximum 200 feet or 4 bus lengths behind the bus.
viewing area. If necessary, have the mirrors
adjusted. Along the sides of the bus.
The rear tires touching the ground.

Figure 10.2 shows how both the outside left and

right side flat mirrors should be adjusted.

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Figure 10.3

right side of the bus, including the service door and

Figure 10.2 front wheel area. The mirror presents a view of
people and objects that does not accurately reflect
10.1.4 – Outside Left and Right Side their size and distance from the bus. The driver
Convex Mirrors must ensure that these mirrors are properly
adjusted.
The convex mirrors are located below the outside
flat mirrors. They are used to monitor the left and Ensure that the mirrors are properly adjusted so
right sides at a wide angle. They provide a view of you can see:
traffic, clearances, and students at the side of the
The entire area in front of the bus from the front
bus. These mirrors present a view of people and
bumper at ground level to a point where direct
objects that does not accurately reflect their size
vision is possible. Direct vision and mirror view
and distance from the bus.
vision should overlap.
You should position these mirrors to see: The right and left front tires touching the ground.
The entire side of the bus up to the mirror The area from the front of the bus to the service
mounts. door.
Front of the rear tires touching the ground. These mirrors, along with the convex and flat
mirrors, should be viewed in a logical sequence
At least one traffic lane on either side of the bus.
to ensure that a child or object is not in any of the
danger zones.
Figure 10.3 shows how both the outside left and
right side convex mirrors should be adjusted.
Figure 10.4 illustrates how the left and right side
crossover mirrors should be adjusted.
10.1.5 – Outside Left and Right Side
Crossover Mirrors

These mirrors are mounted on both left and right

front corners of the bus. They are used to see the
front bumper “danger zone” area directly in front of
the bus that is not visible by direct vision, and to
view the “danger zone” area to the left side and

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The information in this section is intended to

provide a broad overview, but is not a definitive set
of actions. It is imperative that you learn and obey
the state laws and regulations governing
loading/unloading operations in your state.

10.2.1 – Approaching the Stop

Each school district establishes official routes and

official school bus stops. All stops should be
approved by the school district prior to making the
stop. You should never change the location of a
bus stop without written approval from the
appropriate school district official.

You must use extreme caution when approaching

a school bus stop. You are in a very demanding
situation when entering these areas. It is critical
that you understand and follow all state and local
laws and regulations regarding approaching a
Figure 10.4 school bus stop. This would involve the proper use
of mirrors, alternating flashing lights, and when
10.1.6 – Overhead Inside Rearview Mirror equipped, the moveable stop signal arm and
crossing control arm.
This mirror is mounted directly above the
windshield on the driver’s side area of the bus. When approaching the stop you should:
This mirror is used to monitor passenger activity Approach cautiously at a slow rate of speed.
inside the bus. It may provide limited visibility
directly in back of the bus if the bus is equipped Look for pedestrians, traffic, or other objects
with a glass-bottomed rear emergency door. There before, during, and after coming to a stop.
is a blind spot area directly behind the driver’s seat Continuously check all mirrors.
as well as a large blind spot area that begins at the
rear bumper and could extend up to 400 feet or If the school bus is so equipped, activate
more behind the bus. You must use the exterior alternating flashing amber warning lights at least
side mirrors to monitor traffic that approaches and 200 feet or approximately 5-10 seconds before
enters this area. the school bus stop or in accordance with state
law.
You should position the mirror to see: Turn on right turn signal indicator about 100-300
The top of the rear window in the top of the feet or approximately 3-5 seconds before pulling
mirror. over.
All of the students, including the heads of the Continuously check mirrors to monitor the danger
students right behind you. zones for students, traffic, and other objects.
Move as far as possible to the right on the
traveled portion of the roadway.
10.2 – Loading and Unloading
When stopping you should:
More students are killed while getting on or off a
school bus each year than are killed as Bring school bus to a full stop with the front
passengers inside of a school bus. As a result, bumper at least 10 feet away from students at the
knowing what to do before, during, and after designated stop. This forces the students to walk
loading or unloading students is critical. This to the bus so you have a better view of their
section will give you specific procedures to help movements.
you avoid unsafe conditions which could result in
Place transmission in Park, or if there is no Park
injuries and fatalities during and after loading and
shift point, in Neutral and set the parking brake at
unloading students.
each stop.

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Activate alternating red lights when traffic is a Position yourself to supervise loading as required
safe distance from the school bus and ensure or recommended by your state or local
stop arm is extended.. regulations.
Make a final check to see that all traffic has
stopped before completely opening the door and
signaling students to approach. 10.2.3 – Unloading Procedures on the
Route
10.2.2 – Loading Procedures Perform a safe stop at designated unloading
Perform a safe stop as described in subsection areas as described in subsection 10.2.1.
10.2.1. Have the students remain seated until told to exit.
Students should wait in a designated location for Check all mirrors.
the school bus, facing the bus as it approaches.
Count the number of students while unloading to
Students should board the bus only when confirm the location of all students before pulling
signaled by the driver. away from the stop.
Monitor all mirrors continuously. Tell students to exit the bus and walk at least 10
Count the number of students at the bus stop and feet away from the side of the bus to a position
be sure all board the bus. If possible, know where the driver can plainly see all students.
names of students at each stop. If there is a Check all mirrors again. Make sure no students
student missing, ask the other students where are around or returning to the bus.
the student is.
If you cannot account for a student outside the
Have the students board the school bus slowly, in bus, secure the bus, and check around and
single file, and use the handrail. The dome light underneath the bus.
should be on while loading in the dark.
When all students are accounted for, prepare to
Wait until students are seated and facing forward leave by:
before moving the bus.
- Closing the door.
Check all mirrors. Make certain no one is running - Engaging transmission.
to catch the bus. - Releasing parking brake.
If you cannot account for a student outside, - Turning off alternating flashing red lights.
secure the bus, take the key, and check around - Turning on left turn signal.
and underneath the bus. - Checking all mirrors again.
When all students are accounted for, prepare to - Allowing congested traffic to disperse.
leave by: When it is safe, move the bus, enter the traffic
- Closing the door. flow and continue the route.
- Engaging the transmission.
- Releasing the parking brake. Note. If you have missed a student’s unloading
- Turning off alternating flashing red lights. stop, do not back up. Be sure to follow local
- Turning on left turn signal. procedures.
- Checking all mirrors again. Additional Procedures for Students That Must
- Allowing congested traffic to disperse. Cross the Roadway. You should understand what
When it is safe, move the bus to enter traffic flow students should do when exiting a school bus and
and continue the route. crossing the street in front of the bus. In addition,
the school bus driver should understand that
The loading procedure is essentially the same students might not always do what they are
wherever you load students, but there are slight supposed to do. If a student or students must cross
differences. When students are loading at the the roadway, they should follow these procedures:
school campus, you should: Walk approximately 10 feet away from the side of
Turn off the ignition switch. the school bus to a position where you can see
them.
Remove key if leaving driver’s compartment.

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Walk to a location at least 10 feet in front of the Have the students remain seated until told to exit.
right corner of the bumper, but still remaining
Position yourself to supervise unloading as
away from the front of the school bus.
required or recommended by your state or local
Stop at the right edge of the roadway. You should regulations.
be able to see the student’s feet.
Have students exit in orderly fashion.
When students reach the edge of the roadway, Observe students as they step from bus to see
they should: that all move promptly away from the unloading
area.
Stop and look in all directions, making sure the
roadway is clear and is safe. Walk through the bus and check for
hiding/sleeping students and items left by
Check to see if the red flashing lights on the bus
students.
are still flashing.
Check all mirrors. Make certain no students are
Wait for your signal before crossing the roadway.
returning to the bus.
Upon your signal, the students should: If you cannot account for a student outside the
bus and the bus is secure, check around and
Cross far enough in front of the school bus to be
underneath the bus.
in your view.
When all students are accounted for, prepare to
Stop at the left edge of the school bus, stop, and
leave by:
look again for your signal to continue to cross the
roadway. - Closing the door.
- Fastening safety belt.
Look for traffic in both directions, making sure
roadway is clear.
- Starting engine.
- Engaging the transmission.
Proceed across the roadway, continuing to look - Releasing the parking brake.
in all directions.
- Turning off alternating flashing red lights.
Note: The school bus driver should enforce any - Turning on left turn signal.
state or local regulations or recommendations - Checking all mirrors again.
concerning student actions outside the school bus. - Allowing congested traffic to disperse.
When it is safe, pull away from the unloading
10.2.4 – Unloading Procedures at School area.
State and local laws and regulations regarding
10.2.5 – Special Dangers of Loading and
unloading students at schools, particularly in
situations where such activities take place in the
Unloading
school parking lot or other location that is off the
Dropped or Forgotten Objects. Always focus on
traveled roadway, are often different than
students as they approach the bus and watch for
unloading along the school bus route. It is
any who disappear from sight.
important that the school bus driver understands
and obeys state and local laws and regulations.
The following procedures are meant to be general Students may drop an object near the bus during
guidelines. loading and unloading. Stopping to pick up the
object, or returning to pick up the object may cause
When unloading at the school you should follow the student to disappear from the driver’s sight at a
very dangerous moment.
these procedures:
Perform a safe stop at designated unloading Students should be told to leave any dropped
areas as described in subsection 10.2.1. object and move to a point of safety out of the
danger zones and attempt to get the driver’s
Secure the bus by:
attention to retrieve the object.
- Turning off the ignition switch.
- Removing key if leaving driver’s Handrail Hang-ups. Students have been injured
compartment. or killed when clothing, accessories, or even parts
of their body get caught in the handrail or door as
they exited the bus. You should closely observe all

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students exiting the bus to confirm that they are in A decision to evacuate should include
a safe location prior to moving the bus. consideration of the following conditions:
Is there a fire or danger of fire?
10.2.6 – Post-trip Inspection
Is there a smell of raw or leaking fuel?
When your route or school activity trip is finished,
Is there a chance the bus could be hit by other
you should conduct a post-trip inspection of the
vehicles?
bus.
Is the bus in the path of a sighted tornado or
You should walk through the bus and around the rising waters?
bus looking for the following:
Are there downed power lines?
Articles left on the bus.
Would removing students expose them to
Sleeping students. speeding traffic, severe weather, or a dangerous
environment such as downed power lines?
Open windows and doors.
Would moving students complicate injuries such
Mechanical/operational problems with the bus,
as neck and back injuries and fractures?
with special attention to items that are unique to
school buses – mirror systems, flashing warning Is there a hazardous spill involved? Sometimes, it
lamps and stop signal arms. may be safer to remain on the bus and not come
in contact with the material.
Damage or vandalism.
Mandatory Evacuations. The driver must
Any problems or special situations should be
evacuate the bus when:
reported immediately to your supervisor or school
authorities. The bus is on fire or there is a threat of a fire.
The bus is stalled on or adjacent to a railroad-
highway crossing.
10.3 – Emergency Exit and Evacuation
The position of the bus may change and increase
An emergency situation can happen to anyone, the danger.
anytime, anywhere. It could be a crash, a stalled There is an imminent danger of collision.
school bus on a railroad-highway crossing or in a
high-speed intersection, an electrical fire in the There is a need to quickly evacuate because of a
engine compartment, a medical emergency to a hazardous materials spill.
student on the school bus, etc. Knowing what to do
in an emergency–before, during and after an 10.3.2 – Evacuation Procedures
evacuation–can mean the difference between life
and death. Be Prepared and Plan Ahead. When possible,
assign two responsible, older student assistants to
10.3.1 – Planning for Emergencies each emergency exit. Teach them how to assist
the other students off the bus. Assign another
Determine Need to Evacuate Bus. The first and student assistant to lead the students to a “safe
most important consideration is for you to place” after evacuation. However, you must
recognize the hazard. If time permits, school bus recognize that there may not be older, responsible
drivers should contact their dispatcher to explain students on the bus at the time of the emergency.
the situation before making a decision to evacuate Therefore, emergency evacuation procedures
the school bus. must be explained to all students. This includes
knowing how to operate the various emergency
As a general rule, student safety and control is exits and the importance of listening to and
best maintained by keeping students on the bus following all instructions given by you.
during an emergency and/or impending crisis
situation, if so doing does not expose them to Some tips to determine a safe place:
unnecessary risk or injury. Remember, the
A safe place will be at least 100 feet off the road
decision to evacuate the bus must be a timely one.
in the direction of oncoming traffic. This will keep
the students from being hit by debris if another
vehicle collides with the bus.

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Lead students upwind of the bus if fire is present. Join waiting students. Account for all students
and check for their safety.
Lead students as far away from railroad tracks as
possible and in the direction of any oncoming Protect the scene. Set out emergency warning
train. devices as necessary and appropriate.
Lead students upwind of the bus at least 300 feet Prepare information for emergency responders.
if there is a risk from spilled hazardous materials.
If the bus is in the direct path of a sighted tornado
and evacuation is ordered, escort students to a 10.4 – Railroad-highway Crossings
nearby ditch or culvert if shelter in a building is
not readily available, and direct them to lie face 10.4.1 – Types of Crossings
down, hands covering their head. They should be
far enough away so the bus cannot topple on Passive Crossings. This type of crossing does
them. Avoid areas that are subject to flash floods. not have any type of traffic control device. You
must stop at these crossings and follow proper
General Procedures. Determine if evacuation is in procedures. However, the decision to proceed
the best interest of safety. rests entirely in your hands. Passive crossings
require you to recognize the crossing, search for
Determine the best type of evacuation: any train using the tracks and decide if there is
- Front, rear or side door evacuation, or sufficient clear space to cross safely. Passive
some combination of doors. crossings have yellow circular advance warning
- Roof or window evacuation. signs, pavement markings and crossbucks to
assist you in recognizing a crossing.
Secure the bus by: Active Crossings. This type of crossing has a
- Placing transmission in Park, or if there is traffic control device installed at the crossing to
no shift point, in Neutral. regulate traffic at the crossing. These active
- Setting parking brakes. devices include flashing red lights, with or without
- Shutting off the engine. bells and flashing red lights with bells and gates.
- Removing ignition key.
- Activating hazard-warning lights. 10.4.2 – Warning Signs and Devices
If time allows, notify dispatch office of evacuation Advance Warning Signs. The round, black-on-
location, conditions, and type of assistance yellow warning sign is placed ahead of a public
needed. railroad-highway crossing. The advance warning
Dangle radio microphone or telephone out of sign tells you to slow down, look and listen for the
driver’s window for later use, if operable. train, and be prepared to stop at the tracks if a train
is coming. See Figure 10.5.
If no radio, or radio is inoperable, dispatch a
passing motorist or area resident to call for help.
As a last resort, dispatch two older, responsible
students to go for help.
Order the evacuation.
Evacuate students from the bus.
- Do not move a student you believe may
have suffered a neck or spinal injury
unless his or her life is in immediate
danger.
- Special procedures must be used to
move neck spinal injury victims to
prevent further injury.
Direct a student assistant to lead students to the
nearest safe place.
Walk through the bus to ensure no students
remain on the bus. Retrieve emergency
equipment.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

tracks, a sign below the crossbuck indicates the

number of tracks. See Figure 10.7.

Figure 10.5

Pavement Markings. Pavement markings mean

the same as the advance warning sign. They
consist of an “X” with the letters “”RR” and a no- Figure 10.7
passing marking on two-lane roads.
There is also a no passing zone sign on two-lane Flashing Red Light Signals. At many highway-
roads. There may be a white stop line painted on rail grade crossings, the crossbuck sign has
the pavement before the railroad tracks. The front flashing red lights and bells. When the lights begin
of the school bus must remain behind this line to flash, stop! A train is approaching. You are
while stopped at the crossing. See Figure 10.6. required to yield the right-of-way to the train. If
there is more than one track, make sure all tracks
are clear before crossing. See Figure 10.8.

Gates. Many railroad-highway crossings have

gates with flashing red lights and bells. Stop when
the lights begin to flash and before the gate lowers
across the road lane. Remain stopped until the
gates go up and the lights have stopped flashing.
Proceed when it is safe. If the gate stays down
after the train passes, do not drive around the
gate. Instead, call your dispatcher. See Figure
10.8.

10.4.3 – Recommended Procedures

Each state has laws and regulations governing

how school buses must operate at railroad-
highway crossings. It is important for you to
understand and obey these state laws and
regulations. In general, school buses must stop at
Figure 10.6 all crossings, and ensure it is safe before
proceeding across the tracks. The specific
Crossbuck Signs. This sign marks the crossing. It procedures required in each state vary.
requires you to yield the right-of-way to the train. If
there is no white line painted on the pavement, you
must stop the bus before the crossbuck sign.
When the road crosses over more than one set of
Section 10- School Buses Page 10-8
2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

- Turn off all radios and noisy equipment,

and silence the passengers.
- Open the service door and driver’s
window. Look and listen for an
approaching train.
Crossing the Track:
- Check the crossing signals again before
proceeding.
- At a multiple-track crossing, stop only
before the first set of tracks. When you
are sure no train is approaching on any
track, proceed across all of the tracks
until you have completely cleared them.
- Cross the tracks in a low gear. Do not
change gears while crossing.
- If the gate comes down after you have
started across, drive through it even if it
means you will break the gate.

10.4.4 – Special Situations

Bus Stalls or Trapped on Tracks. If your bus

Figure 10.8 stalls or is trapped on the tracks, get everyone out
and off the tracks immediately. Move everyone far
A school bus is one of the safest vehicles on the from the bus at an angle, which is both away from
highway. However, a school bus does not have the the tracks and toward the train.
slightest edge when involved in a crash with a
train. Because of a train’s size and weight it cannot Police Officer at the Crossing. If a police officer
stop quickly. An emergency escape route does not is at the crossing, obey directions. If there is no
exist for a train. You can prevent school bus/train police officer, and you believe the signal is
crashes by following these recommended malfunctioning, call your dispatcher to report the
procedures. situation and ask for instructions on how to
proceed.
Approaching the Crossing:
- Slow down, including shifting to a lower Obstructed View of Tracks. Plan your route so it
gear in a manual transmission bus, and provides maximum sight distance at highway-rail
test your brakes. grade crossings. Do not attempt to cross the tracks
- Activate hazard lights approximately 200 unless you can see far enough down the track to
feet before the crossing. Make sure your know for certain that no trains are approaching.
intentions are known. Passive crossings are those that do not have any
- Scan your surroundings and check for type of traffic control device. Be especially careful
traffic behind you. at “passive” crossings. Even if there are active
- Stay to the right of the roadway if railroad signals that indicate the tracks are clear,
possible. you must look and listen to be sure it is safe to
proceed.
- Choose an escape route in the event of a
brake failure or problems behind you.
Containment or Storage Areas. If it won’t fit,
At the Crossing: don’t commit! Know the length of your bus and the
- Stop no closer than 15 feet and no size of the containment area at highway-rail
farther than 50 feet from the nearest rail, crossings on the school bus route, as well as any
where you have the best view of the crossing you encounter in the course of a school
tracks. activity trip. When approaching a crossing with a
- Place the transmission in Park, or if there signal or stop sign on the opposite side, pay
is no Park shift point, in Neutral and attention to the amount of room there. Be certain
press down on the service brake or set the bus has enough containment or storage area
the parking brakes. to completely clear the railroad tracks on the other
side if there is a need to stop. As a general rule,

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add 15 feet to the length of the school bus to Air brakes vehicles, (trucks, buses, trailers and
determine an acceptable amount of containment or converter dollies) built on or after March 1, 1998.
storage area.
Hydraulically braked trucks and buses with a
gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 lbs or more
built on or after March 1, 1999.
10.5 – Student Management
Many buses built before these dates have been
10.5.1 – Don’t Deal with On-bus Problems voluntarily equipped with ABS.
When Loading and Unloading
Your school bus will have a yellow ABS
In order to get students to and from school safely malfunction lamp on the instrument panel if it is
and on time, you need to be able to concentrate on equipped with ABS.
the driving task.
10.6.2 – How ABS Helps You
Loading and unloading requires all your
concentration. Don’t take your eyes off what is When you brake hard on slippery surfaces in a
happening outside the bus. vehicle without ABS, your wheels may lock up.
When your steering wheels lock up, you lose
If there is a behavior problem on the bus, wait until steering control. When your other wheels lock up,
the students unloading are safely off the bus and you may skid or even spin the vehicle.
have moved away. If necessary, pull the bus over
to handle the problem. ABS helps you avoid wheel lock up and maintain
control. You may or may not be able to stop faster
10.5.2 – Handling Serious Problems with ABS, but you should be able to steer around
an obstacle while braking, and avoid skids caused
Tips on handling serious problems: by over braking.
Follow your school’s procedures for discipline or
refusal of rights to ride the bus. 10.6.3 – Braking with ABS
Stop the bus. Park in a safe location off the road, When you drive a vehicle with ABS, you should
perhaps a parking lot or a driveway. brake as you always have. In other words:
Secure the bus. Take the ignition key with you if Use only the braking force necessary to stop
you leave your seat. safely and stay in control.
Stand up and speak respectfully to the offender Brake the same way, regardless of whether you
or offenders. Speak in a courteous manner with a have ABS on the bus. However, in emergency
firm voice. Remind the offender of the expected braking, do not pump the brakes on a bus with
behavior. Do not show anger, but do show that ABS.
you mean business.
As you slow down, monitor your bus and back off
If a change of seating is needed, request that the the brakes (if it is safe to do so) to stay in control.
student move to a seat near you.
Never put a student off the bus except at school 10.6.4 – Braking if ABS is Not Working
or at his or her designated school bus stop. If you
feel that the offense is serious enough that you Without ABS, you still have normal brake functions.
cannot safely drive the bus, call for a school Drive and brake as you always have.
administrator or the police to come and remove
the student. Always follow your state or local Vehicles with ABS have yellow malfunction lamps
procedures for requesting assistance. to tell you if something is not working. The yellow
ABS malfunction lamp is on the bus’s instrument
panel.
10.6 – Antilock Braking Systems
As a system check on newer vehicles, the
10.6.1 – Vehicles Required to Have malfunction lamp comes on at start-up for a bulb
check and then goes out quickly. On older
Antilock Braking Systems
systems, the lamp could stay on until you are
The Department of Transportation requires that
driving over five mph.
antilock braking systems be on:

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If the lamp stays on after the bulb check, or goes 10.7.2 – Driving in High Winds
on once you are under way, you may have lost
ABS control at one or more wheels. Strong winds affect the handling of the school bus!
The side of a school bus acts like a sail on a
Remember, if your ABS malfunctions, you still sailboat. Strong winds can push the school bus
have regular brakes. Drive normally, but get the sideways. They can even move the school bus off
system serviced soon. the road or, in extreme conditions, tip it over.
If you are caught in strong winds:
10.6.5 – Safety Reminders
Keep a strong grip on the steering wheel. Try to
ABS won’t allow you to drive faster, follow more anticipate gusts.
closely, or drive less carefully.
You should slow down to lessen the effect of the
ABS won’t prevent power or turning skids–ABS wind, or pull off the roadway and wait.
should prevent brake-induced skids but not those
Contact your dispatcher to get more information
caused by spinning the drive wheels or going too
on how to proceed.
fast in a turn.
ABS won’t necessarily shorten stopping distance. 10.7.3 – Backing
ABS will help maintain vehicle control, but not
always shorten stopping distance. Backing a school bus is strongly discouraged. You
ABS won’t increase or decrease ultimate should back your bus only when you have no other
stopping power–ABS is an “add-on” to your safe way to move the vehicle. You should never
normal brakes, not a replacement for them. back a school bus when students are outside of
the bus. Backing is dangerous and increases your
ABS won’t change the way you normally brake. risk of a collision. If you have no choice and you
Under normal brake conditions, your vehicle will must back your bus, follow these procedures:
stop as it always stopped. ABS only comes into
play when a wheel would normally have locked Post a lookout. The purpose of the lookout is to
warn you about obstacles, approaching persons,
up because of over braking.
and other vehicles. The lookout should not give
ABS won’t compensate for bad brakes or poor directions on how to back the bus.
brake maintenance.
Signal for quiet on the bus.
Remember: The best vehicle safety feature is still
a safe driver. Constantly check all mirrors and rear windows.

Remember: Drive so you never need to use your Back slowly and smoothly.
ABS. If no lookout is available:
Remember: If you need it, ABS could help to - Set the parking brake.
prevent a serious crash. - Turn off the motor and take the keys with
you.
- Walk to the rear of the bus to determine
whether the way is clear.
10.7 – Special Safety Considerations
If you must back-up at a student pick-up point, be
10.7.1 – Strobe Lights sure to pick up students before backing and
watch for late comers at all times.
Some school buses are equipped with roof- Be sure that all students are in the bus before
mounted, white strobe lights. If your bus is so backing.
equipped, the overhead strobe light should be
used when you have limited visibility. This means If you must back-up at a student drop-off point,
that you cannot easily see around you – in front, be sure to unload students after backing.
behind, or beside the school bus. Your visibility
could be only slightly limited or it could be so bad
that you can see nothing at all. In all instances, 10.7.4 – Tail Swing
understand and obey your state or local
regulations concerning the use of these lights. A school bus can have up to a three-foot tail swing.
You need to check your mirrors before and during
any turning movements to monitor the tail swing.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Section 10
Test Your Knowledge
1. Define the danger zone. How far does the
danger zone extend around the bus?
2. What should you be able to see if the
outside flat mirrors are adjusted properly?
The outside convex mirrors? The
crossover mirrors?
3. You are loading students along the route.
When should you activate your alternating
flashing amber warning lights?
4. You are unloading students along your
route. Where should students walk to after
exiting the bus?
5. After unloading at school, why should you
walk through the bus?
6. What position should students be in front
of the bus before they cross the roadway?
7. Under what conditions must you evacuate
the bus?
8. How far from the nearest rail should you
stop at a highway-rail crossing?
9. What is a passive highway-rail crossing?
Why should you be extra cautious at this
type of crossing?
10. How should you use your brakes if your
vehicle is equipped with antilock brakes
(ABS)?
These questions may be on your test. If you can’t
answer them all, re-read Section 10.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Engine Compartment Belts

Section 11
Check the following belts for snugness (up to 3/4
Pre-trip Vehicle inch play at center of belt), cracks, or frays:
- Power steering belt.
Inspection Test - Water pump belt.
- Alternator belt.
This Section Covers - Air compressor belt.
Note: If any of the components listed above are
• Internal Inspection not belt driven, you must:
• External Inspection
Tell the examiner which component(s) are not
During the pre-trip inspection, you must show that belt driven.
the vehicle is safe to drive. You may have to walk Make sure component(s) are operating properly,
around the vehicle and point to or touch each item are not damaged or leaking, and are mounted
and explain to the examiner what you are checking securely.
and why. You will NOT have to crawl under the
hood or under the vehicle. Safe Start
Depress clutch.
11.1 All Vehicles Place gearshift lever in neutral (or park, for
automatic transmissions).
Study the following vehicle parts for the type of
vehicle you will be using during the CDL skills Start engine, then release clutch slowly.
tests. You should be able to identify each part and
tell the examiner what you are looking for or 11.1.2 – Cab Check/Engine Start
inspecting.
Oil Pressure Gauge
11.1.1 Engine Compartment (Engine Off) Make sure oil pressure gauge is working.

Leaks/Hoses Check that pressure gauge shows increasing or

normal oil pressure or that the warning light goes
Look for puddles on the ground. off.
Look for dripping fluids on underside of engine If equipped, oil temperature gauge should begin
and transmission. a gradual rise to the normal operating range.
Inspect hoses for condition and leaks.
Temperature Gauge
Oil Level Make sure the temperature gauge is working.
Indicate where dipstick is located. Temperature should begin to climb to the normal
See that oil level is within safe operating range. operating range or temperature light should be
Level must be above refill mark. off.

Coolant Level Air Gauge

Inspect reservoir sight glass, or Make sure the air gauge is working properly.

(If engine is not hot), remove radiator cap and Build air pressure to governor cut-out, roughly
check for visible coolant level. 120-140 psi.

Power Steering Fluid Ammeter/Voltmeter

Indicate where power steering fluid dipstick is Check that gauges show alternator and/or
located. generator is charging or that warning light is off.

Check for adequate power steering fluid level. Mirrors and Windshield
Level must be above refill mark.
Mirrors should be clean and adjusted properly
from the inside.

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Windshield should be clean with no illegal - Reflector tape condition

stickers, no obstructions, or damage to the glass.
Note: Checks of brake, turn signal and four-way
Emergency Equipment flasher functions must be done separately.
Check for spare electrical fuses.
Horn
Check for three red reflective triangles, 6 fusees
or 3 liquid burning flares. Check that air horn and/or electric horn work.

Check for a properly charged and rated fire Heater/Defroster

extinguisher.
Test that the heater and defroster work.
Note: If the vehicle is not equipped with electrical
fuses, you must mention this to the examiner. Parking Brake Check

Steering Play • With the parking brake engaged (trailer brakes

released on combination vehicles), check that
Non-power steering: Check for excessive play by the parking brake will hold vehicle by gently
turning steering wheel back and forth. Play trying to pull forward with parking brake on.
should not exceed 10 degrees (or about two
inches on a 20-inch wheel). With the parking brake released and the trailer
parking brake engaged (combination vehicles
Power steering: With the engine running, check only), check that the trailer parking brake will hold
for excessive play by turning the steering wheel vehicle by gently trying to pull forward with the
back and forth. Play should not exceed 10 trailer parking brake on.
degrees (or about two inches on a 20-inch wheel)
before front left wheel barely moves. Hydraulic Brake Check

Wipers/Washers Pump the brake pedal three times, then hold it

down for five seconds. The brake pedal should
Check that wiper arms and blades are secure, not move (depress) during the five seconds.
not damaged, and operate smoothly.
If equipped with a hydraulic brake reserve (back-
If equipped, windshield washers must operate up) system, with the key off, depress the brake
correctly. pedal and listen for the sound of the reserve
system electric motor.
Lights/Reflectors/Reflector Tape Condition
(Sides & Rear) Check that the warning buzzer or light is off.

Test that dash indicators work when Air Brake Check (Air Brake Equipped Vehicles
corresponding lights are turned on: Only)
- Left turn signal. Failure to perform all three components of the air
- Right turn signal. brake check correctly will result in an automatic
- Four-way emergency flashers. failure of the vehicle inspection test. Air brake
- High beam headlight. safety devices vary. However, this procedure is
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) designed to see that any safety device operates
indicator. correctly as air pressure drops from normal to a
low air condition. For safety purposes, in areas
Check that all external lights and reflective where an incline is present, you will use wheel
equipment are clean and functional. Light and chocks during the air brake check. The proper
reflector checks include: procedures for inspecting the air brake system
- Clearance lights (red on rear, amber are as follows:
elsewhere).
- Headlights (high and low beams). • Shut off the engine, chock your wheels, if
necessary, release the tractor protection
- Taillights. valve and parking brake (push in), fully apply
- Backing lights. the foot brake and hold it for one minute.
- Turn signals. Check the air gauge to see if the air
- Four-way flashers. pressure drops more than three pounds in
- Brake lights. one minute (single vehicle) or four pounds in
one minute (combination vehicle).
- Red reflectors (on rear) and amber
reflectors (elsewhere).
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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

• Turn electrical power on and begin fanning 11.2.2 – Suspension

off the air pressure by rapidly applying and Springs/Air/Torque
releasing the foot brake. Low air warning
devices (buzzer, light, flag) should activate Look for missing, shifted, cracked, or broken leaf
before air pressure drops below 60 psi. springs.
Look for broken or distorted coil springs.
• Continue to fan off the air pressure. At
approximately 40 psi on a tractor-trailer If vehicle is equipped with torsion bars, torque
combination vehicle, the tractor protection arms, or other types of suspension components,
valve and parking brake valve should close check that they are not damaged and are
(pop out). On other combination vehicle mounted securely.
types and single vehicle types, the parking
Air ride suspension should be checked for
brake valve should close (pop out).
damage and leaks.
Service Brake Check
Mounts
You will be required to check the application of air Look for cracked or broken spring hangers,
or hydraulic service brakes. This procedure is missing or damaged bushings, and broken,
designed to determine that the brakes are working loose, or missing bolts, u-bolts or other axle
correctly and that the vehicle does not pull to one mounting parts. (The mounts should be checked
side or the other. at each point where they are secured to the
vehicle frame and axle[s]).
Pull forward at 5 mph, apply the service brake and
stop. Check to see that the vehicle does not pull to Shock Absorbers
either side and that it stops when brake is applied.
See that shock absorbers are secure and that
Safety Belt there are no leaks.

Check that the safety belt is securely mounted, Note: Be prepared to perform the same
adjusts, latches properly and is not ripped or suspension components inspection on every axle
frayed. (power unit and trailer, if equipped).

11.2.3 – Brakes
11.2 – External Inspection (All
Vehicles) Slack Adjustors and Pushrods
Look for broken, loose, or missing parts.
11.2.1– Steering
For manual slack adjustors, the brake pushrod
Steering Box/Hoses should not move more than one inch (with the
brakes released) when pulled by hand.
Check that the steering box is securely mounted
and not leaking. Look for any missing nuts, bolts, Brake Chambers
and cotter keys.
See that brake chambers are not leaking,
Check for power steering fluid leaks or damage cracked, or dented and are mounted securely.
to power steering hoses.
Brake Hoses/Lines
Steering Linkage
Look for cracked, worn, or leaking hoses, lines,
See that connecting links, arms, and rods from and couplings.
the steering box to the wheel are not worn or
cracked. Drum Brake
Check that joints and sockets are not worn or Check for cracks, dents, or holes. Also check for
loose and that there are no missing nuts, bolts, or loose or missing bolts.
cotter keys.
Check for contaminates such debris or oil/grease.
Brake linings (where visible) should not be worn
dangerously thin.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Note: Be prepared to perform the same wheel

Brake Linings
inspection on every axle (power unit and trailer, if
On some brake drums, there are openings where equipped).
the brake linings can be seen from outside the
drum. For this type of drum, check that a visible 11.2.5 – Side of Vehicle
amount of brake lining is showing.
Door(s)/Mirror(s)
Note: Be prepared to perform the same brake
components inspection on every axle (power unit Check that door(s) are not damaged and that
and trailer, if equipped). they open and close properly from the outside.
Hinges should be secure with seals intact.
11.2.4 – Wheels
Check that mirror(s) and mirror brackets are not
damaged and are mounted securely with no
Rims
loose fittings.
Check for damaged or bent rims. Rims cannot
have welding repairs. Fuel Tank
Check that tank(s) are secure, cap(s) are tight,
Tires
and that there are no leaks from tank(s) or lines.
The following items must be inspected on every
tire: Battery/Box
- Tread depth: Check for minimum tread Wherever located, see that battery(s) are secure,
depth (4/32 on steering axle tires, 2/32 connections are tight, and cell caps are present.
on all other tires).
Battery connections should not show signs of
- Tire condition: Check that tread is evenly excessive corrosion.
worn and look for cuts or other damage
to tread or sidewalls. Also, make sure Battery box and cover or door must be secure.
that valve caps and stems are not
missing, broken, or damaged. Drive Shaft
- Tire inflation: Check for proper inflation See that drive shaft is not bent or cracked.
by using a tire gauge. Note: You will not
get credit if you simply kick the tires to Couplings should be secure and free of foreign
check for proper inflation. objects.

Hub Oil Seals/Axle Seals Exhaust System

Check system for damage and signs of leaks
See that hub oil/grease seals and axle seals are such as rust or carbon soot.
not leaking and, if wheel has a sight glass, oil level
is adequate. System should be connected tightly and mounted
securely.
Lug Nuts
Frame
Check that all lug nuts are present, free of cracks Look for cracks, broken welds, holes or other
and distortions, and show no signs of looseness damage to the longitudinal frame members, cross
such as rust trails or shiny threads. members, box, and floor.

Make sure all bolt holes are not cracked or 11.2.6 – Rear of Vehicle
distorted.
Splash Guards
Spacers or Budd Spacing
If equipped, check that splash guards or mud
If equipped, check that spacers are not bent, flaps are not damaged and are mounted
damaged, or rusted through. securely.

Spacers should be evenly centered, with the dual

wheels and tires evenly separated.

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Doors/Ties/Lifts
Platform (Fifth Wheel)
Check that doors and hinges are not damaged
and that they open, close, and latch properly from Check for cracks or breaks in the platform
the outside, if equipped. structure which supports the fifth wheel skid
plate.
Ties, straps, chains, and binders must also be
secure.
Release Arm (Fifth Wheel)
If equipped with a cargo lift, look for leaking,
damaged or missing parts and explain how it If equipped, make sure the release arm is in the
should be checked for correct operation. engaged position and the safety latch is in place.

Lift must be fully retracted and latched securely. Kingpin/Apron/Gap

Check that the kingpin is not bent.
11.2.7 – Tractor/Coupling
Make sure the visible part of the apron is not
Air/Electric Lines bent, cracked, or broken.
Listen for air leaks. Check that air hoses and Check that the trailer is laying flat on the fifth
electrical lines are not cut, chafed, spliced, or wheel skid plate (no gap).
worn (steel braid should not show through).
Locking Pins (Fifth Wheel)
Make sure air and electrical lines are not tangled,
pinched, or dragging against tractor parts. If equipped, look for loose or missing pins in the
slide mechanism of the sliding fifth wheel. If air
Catwalk powered, check for leaks.
Check that the catwalk is solid, clear of objects, Make sure locking pins are fully engaged.
and securely bolted to tractor frame.
Check that the fifth wheel is positioned properly
so that the tractor frame will clear the landing
Mounting Bolts
gear during turns.
Look for loose or missing mounting brackets,
clamps, bolts, or nuts. Both the fifth wheel and Sliding Pintle
the slide mounting must be solidly attached.
Check that the sliding pintle is secured with no
On other types of coupling systems (i.e., ball loose or missing nuts or bolts and cotter pin is in
hitch, pintle hook, etc.), inspect all coupling place.
components and mounting brackets for missing
or broken parts. Tongue or Draw-bar

Hitch Release Lever Check that the tongue/draw-bar is not bent or

twisted and checks for broken welds and stress
Check to see that the hitch release lever is in cracks.
place and is secure.
Check that the tongue/draw-bar is not worn
Locking Jaws excessively.

Look into fifth wheel gap and check that locking Tongue Storage Area
jaws are fully closed around the kingpin.
Check that the storage area is solid and secured
On other types of coupling systems (i.e., ball to the tongue.
hitch, pintle hook, etc.), inspect the locking
mechanism for missing or broken parts and make Check that cargo in the storage area i.e. chains,
sure it is locked securely. If present, safety binders, etc. are secure.
cables or chains must be secure and free of kinks
and excessive slack.
th
5 Wheel Skid Plate
th
Check for proper lubrication and that 5 wheel
skid plate is securely mounted to the platform
and that all bolts and pins are secure and not
missing.

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11.3 – School Bus Only Hand rails are secure and the step light is
working, if equipped.
Emergency Equipment The entry steps must be clear with the treads not
In addition to checking for spare electrical fuses loose or worn excessively.
(if equipped), three red reflective triangles, and a If equipped with a handicap lift, look for leaking,
properly charged and rated fire extinguisher, damaged, or missing parts and explain how lift
school bus drivers must also inspect the following should be checked for correct operation. Lift must
emergency equipment: be fully retracted and latched securely.
- Emergency Kit
- Body Fluid Cleanup Kit Emergency Exit
Make sure that all emergency exits are not
Lighting Indicators damaged, operate smoothly, and close securely
In addition to checking the lighting indicators from the inside.
listed in Section 10.2 of this manual, school bus Check that any emergency exit warning devices
drivers must also check the following lighting are working.
indicators (internal panel lights):
- Alternately flashing amber lights Seating
indicator, if equipped. Look for broken seat frames and check that seat
- Alternately flashing red lights indicator. frames are firmly attached to the floor.
- Strobe light indicator, if equipped. Check that seat cushions are attached securely
to the seat frames.
Lights/Reflectors
In addition to checking the lights and reflective 11.4 – Trailer
devices listed in Section 10.2 of this manual,
school bus drivers must also check the following 11.4.1 – Trailer Front
(external) lights and reflectors:
- Strobe light, if equipped. Air/Electrical Connections
- Stop arm light, if equipped. Check that trailer air connectors are sealed and
- Alternately flashing amber lights, if in good condition.
equipped.
- Alternately flashing red lights. Make sure glad hands are locked in place, free of
damage or air leaks.
Student Mirrors Make sure the trailer electrical plug is firmly
seated and locked in place.
In addition to checking the external mirrors,
school bus drivers must also check the internal
Header Board
and external mirrors used for observing students:
If equipped, check the header board to see that it
Check for proper adjustment.
is secure, free of damage, and strong enough to
Checks that all internal and external mirrors and contain cargo.
mirror brackets are not damaged and are
If equipped, the canvas or tarp carrier must be
mounted securely with no loose fittings.
mounted and fastened securely.
Checks that visibility is not impaired due to dirty
On enclosed trailers, check the front area for
mirrors.
signs of damage such as cracks, bulges, or
holes.
Stop Arm
If equipped, check the stop arm to see that it is 11.4.2 – Side of Trailer
mounted securely to the frame of the vehicle.
Also, check for loose fittings and damage. Landing Gear
Passenger Entry/Lift Check that the landing gear is fully raised, has no
Check that the entry door is not damaged, missing parts, crank handle is secure, and the
operates smoothly, and closes securely from the support frame is not damaged.
inside. If power operated, check for air or hydraulic
leaks.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Doors/Ties/Lifts Emergency Exits

If equipped, check that doors are not damaged. Make sure that all emergency exits are not
Check that doors open, close, and latch properly damaged, operate smoothly, and close securely
from the outside. from the inside.
Check that ties, straps, chains, and binders are Check that any emergency exit warning devices
secure. are working.
If equipped with a cargo lift, look for leaking,
damaged or missing parts and explain how it Passenger Seating
should be checked for correct operation. Look for broken seat frames and check that seat
Lift should be fully retracted and latched securely. frames are firmly attached to the floor.
Check that seat cushions are attached securely
Frame to the seat frames.
Look for cracks, broken welds, holes or other
damage to the frame, cross members, box, and 11.5.2 – Entry/ Exit
floor.
Doors/Mirrors
Tandem Release Arm/Locking Pins
Check that entry/exit doors are not damaged and
If equipped, make sure the locking pins are operate smoothly from the outside. Hinges
locked in place and release arm is secured. should be secure with seals intact.
Make sure that the passenger exit mirrors and all
11.4.3 – Remainder of Trailer external mirrors and mirror brackets are not
damaged and are mounted securely with no
Remainder of Trailer loose fittings.
Please refer to Section 11.2 of this manual for
detailed inspection procedures regarding the 11.5.3 – External Inspection of Coach/
following components: Transit Bus
- Wheels.
- Suspension system. Level/Air Leaks
- Brakes. See that the vehicle is sitting level (front and
- Doors/ties/lift. rear), and if air-equipped, check for audible air
- Splash guards. leaks from the suspension system.

Fuel Tank(s)
11.5 – Coach/Transit Bus See that fuel tank(s) are secure with no leaks
from tank(s) or lines.
11.5.1 – Passenger Items
Baggage Compartments
Passenger Entry/Lift
Check that baggage and all other exterior
Check that entry doors operate smoothly and compartment doors are not damaged, operate
close securely from the inside. properly, and latch securely.
Check that hand rails are secure and, if Battery/Box
equipped, that the step light(s) are working.
Wherever located, see that battery(s) are secure,
Check that the entry steps are clear, with the
connections are tight, and cell caps are present.
treads not loose or worn excessively.
Battery connections should not show signs of
If equipped with a handicap lift, look for any
excessive corrosion.
leaking, damaged or missing part, and explain
how it should be checked for correct operation. Check that battery box and cover or door is not
damaged and is secure.
Lift should be fully retracted and latched securely.

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11.5.4 – Remainder of Coach/ Transit Bus

Remainder of Vehicle
Please refer to Section 11.2 of this manual for
detailed inspection procedures for the remainder
of the vehicle.

Remember, the pre-trip vehicle inspection must be

passed before you can proceed to the basic
vehicle control skills test.

11.6 – Taking the CDL Pre-trip

Inspection Test

11.6.1 – Class A Pre-trip Inspection Test

If you are applying for a Class A CDL, you will be

required to perform one of the four versions of a
pre-trip inspection in the vehicle you have brought
with you for testing. Each of the four tests are
equivalent and you will not know which test you will
take until just before the testing begins.

All of the tests include an engine start, an in-cab-

inspection, and an inspection of the coupling
system. Then, your test may require an inspection
of the entire vehicle or only a portion of the vehicle
which your CDL Examiner will explain to you.

11.6.2 – Class B and C Pre-trip Inspection

Test

If you are applying for a Class B CDL, you will be

required to perform one of the three versions of a
pre-trip inspection in the vehicle you have brought
with you for testing. Each of the three tests are
equivalent and you will not know which test you will
take until just before the testing begins.

All of the tests include an engine start and an in-

cab inspection. Then, your test may require an
inspection of the entire vehicle or only a portion of
the vehicle which your CDL Examiner will explain
to you. You will also have to inspect any special
features of your vehicle (e.g, school or transit bus).

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the vehicle it may result in an automatic failure of

Section 12 the basic control skills test.
Basic Vehicle Control The maximum number of times that you may look
to check the position of you vehicle is two (2)
Skills Test except for the Straight Line Backing exercise,
which allows one look. Each time you open the
This Section Covers door, move from a seated position where in
physical control of the vehicle or on a bus walk to
• Skills Test Exercises the back of a bus to get a better view, it is scored
• Skills Test Scoring as a “look”.

Your basic control skills could be tested using one Final Position – It is important that you finish each
or more of the following exercises off-road or exercise exactly as the examiner has instructed
somewhere on the street during the road test: you. If you do not maneuver the vehicle into its
final position as described by the examiner, you
Straight line backing.
will be penalized and could fail the basic skills test.
Offset back/right
Offset back/left 12.2 EXERCISES
Parallel park (driver side). 12.2.1 – Straight Line Backing
Parallel park (conventional).
Alley dock. You may be asked to back your vehicle in a
straight line between two rows of cones without
These exercises are shown in Figures 12-1 touching or crossing over the exercise boundaries.
through 12-6. (See Figure 12.1.)

12.1 SCORING 12.2.2 – Offset Back/Right

Crossing Boundaries (encroachments) You may be asked to back into a space that is to
the right rear of your vehicle. You will drive straight
Pull-ups
forward and back your vehicle into that space
Vehicle Exits without striking the side or rear boundaries marked
by cones. You must place your vehicle completely
Final Position
into the space. (See Figure 12.2)
Encroachments – The examiner will score the
number of times you touch or cross over an 12.2.3 – Offset Back/Left
exercise boundary line with any portion of your You may be asked to back into a space that is to
vehicle. Each encroachment will count as an error. the left rear of your vehicle. You will drive straight
forward and back your vehicle into that space
Pull-ups – When a driver stops and reverses without striking the side or rear boundaries marked
direction to get a better position, it is scored as a by cones. You must place your vehicle completely
“pull-up”. Stopping without changing direction does into the space. (See Figure 12.3)
not count as a pull-up. You will not be penalized
for initial pull-ups. However, an excessive number
12.2.4 – Parallel Park (Driver Side)
of pull-ups, will count as errors.
You may be asked to park in a parallel parking
Outside Vehicle Observations (Looks) – You may space that is on your left. You are to drive past the
be permitted to safely stop and exit the vehicle to parking space and back into it bringing the rear of
check the external position of the vehicle (look). your vehicle as close as possible to the rear of the
When doing so, you must place the vehicle in space without crossing side or rear boundaries
neutral and set the parking brake(s). Then, when marked by cones. You are required to get your
exiting the vehicle, you must do so safely by facing vehicle completely into the space. (See Figure
the vehicle and maintaining three points of contact 12.4)
with the vehicle at all times (when exiting a bus,
maintain a firm grasp on the handrail at all times)..
If you do not safely secure the vehicle or safely exit
Section 12 – Basic Control Skills Page 12-1
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12.2.5 – Parallel Park (Conventional)

You may be asked to park in a parallel parking
space that is on your right. You are to drive past
the parking space and back into it bringing the rear
of your vehicle as close as possible to the rear of
the space without crossing side or rear boundaries
marked by cones. You are required to get your
vehicle completely into the space. (See Figure
12.5)

12.2.6 – Alley Dock

You may be asked to sight-side back your vehicle

into an alley, bringing the rear of your vehicle as
close as possible to the rear of the alley without
going beyond the exercise boundary marked by a
line or row of cones. You are required to get your
vehicle completely into the space with your entire
vehicle straight with the alley. (See Figure 12.6.)

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Figure 12.1: Straight Line Backing

Figure 12.2: Offset Back/Right

Figure 12.3: Offset Back/Left

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Figure 12.4: Parallel Park (Driver Side)

Figure 12.5: Parallel Park (Conventional)

Figure 12.6: Alley Dock

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

If stopping behind another vehicle, stop where

Section 13 you can see the rear tires on the vehicle ahead of
On-Road Driving you (safe gap).
Do not let your vehicle roll.
This Section Covers Keep the front wheels aimed straight ahead.

• How You Will Be Tested When ready to turn:

Check traffic in all directions.
You will drive over a test route that has a variety of
traffic situations. At all times during the test, you Keep both hands on the steering wheel during
must drive in a safe and responsible manner; and . the turn.

Wear your safety belt. Keep checking your mirror to make sure the
vehicle does not hit anything on the inside of the
Obey all traffic signs, signals, and laws. turn.
Complete the test without an accident or moving Vehicle should not move into oncoming traffic.
violation.
Vehicle should finish turn in correct lane.
During the driving test, the examiner will be scoring
you on specific driving maneuvers as well as on After turn:
your general driving behavior. You will follow the Make sure turn signal is off.
directions of the examiner. Directions will be given
to you so you will have plenty of time to do what Get up to speed of traffic, use turn signal, and
the examiner has asked. You will not be asked to move into right-most lane when safe to do so (if
drive in an unsafe manner. not already there).
Check mirrors and traffic.
If your test route does not have certain traffic
situations, you may be asked to simulate a traffic
13.1.2 – Intersections
situation. You will do this by telling the examiner
As you approach an intersection:
what you are or would be doing if you were in that
traffic situation. Check traffic thoroughly in all directions.
Decelerate gently.
13.1 – How You Will Be Tested
Brake smoothly and, if necessary, change gears.
13.1.1 – Turns If necessary, come to a complete stop (no
You have been asked to make a turn: coasting) behind any stop signs, signals,
Check traffic in all directions. sidewalks, or stop lines maintaining a safe gap
behind any vehicle in front of you.
Use turn signals and safely get into the lane
needed for the turn. Your vehicle must not roll forward or backward.

As you approach the turn: When driving through an intersection:

Use turn signals to warn others of your turn. Check traffic thoroughly in all directions.

Slow down smoothly, change gears as needed to Decelerate and yield to any pedestrians and
keep power, but do not coast unsafely. Unsafe traffic in the intersection.
coasting occurs when your vehicle is out of gear Do not change lanes while proceeding through
(clutch depressed or gearshift in neutral) for more the intersection.
than the length of your vehicle.
Keep your hands on the wheel.
If you must stop before making the turn: Once through the intersection:

Come to a smooth stop without skidding. Continue checking mirrors and traffic.

Come to a complete stop behind the stop line, Accelerate smoothly and change gears as
crosswalk, or stop sign. necessary.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

13.1.3 – Urban/Rural Straight Vehicle must be parallel to the curb or shoulder

During this part of the test, you are expected to of the road and safely out of the traffic flow.
make regular traffic checks and maintain a safe Vehicle should not be blocking driveways, fire
following distance. Your vehicle should be hydrants, intersections, signs, etc.
centered in the proper lane (right-most lane) and
you should keep up with the flow of traffic but not Cancel your turn signal.
exceed the posted speed limit.
Activate your four-way emergency flashers.

13.1.4 –Lane Changes Apply the parking brake.

During multiple lane portions of the test, you will be Move the gear shift to neutral or park.
asked to change lanes to the left, and then back to
the right. You should make the necessary traffic Remove your feet from the brake and clutch
checks first, then use proper signals and smoothly pedals.
change lanes when it is safe to do so.
When instructed to resume:
13.1.5 – Expressway Check traffic and your mirrors thoroughly in all
Before entering the expressway: directions.
Check traffic. Turn off your four-way flashers.
Use proper signals. Activate the left turn signal.
Merge smoothly into the proper lane of traffic. When traffic permits, you should release the
parking brake and pull straight ahead.
Once on the expressway:
Do not turn the wheel before your vehicle moves.
Maintain proper lane positioning, vehicle spacing,
and vehicle speed. Check traffic from all directions, especially to the
left.
Continue to check traffic thoroughly in all
directions. Steer and accelerate smoothly into the proper
lane when safe to do so.
When exiting the expressway: Once your vehicle is back into the flow of traffic,
Make necessary traffic checks. cancel your left turn signal.

Use proper signals. 13.1.7 – Curve

Decelerate smoothly in the exit lane. When approaching a curve:
Once on the exit ramp, you must continue to Check traffic thoroughly in all directions.
decelerate within the lane markings and maintain
adequate spacing between your vehicle and Before entering the curve, reduce speed so
other vehicles. further braking or shifting is not required in the
curve.
13.1.6 – Stop/Start Keep vehicle in the lane.
For this maneuver, you will be asked to pull your
vehicle over to the side of the road and stop as if Continue checking traffic in all directions.
you were going to get out and check something on
your vehicle. You must check traffic thoroughly in 13.1.8 – Railroad Crossing
all directions and move to the right-most lane or
shoulder of road. Before reaching the crossing, all commercial
As you prepare for the stop: drivers should:
Check traffic. Decelerate, brake smoothly, and shift gears as
necessary.
Activate your right turn signal.
Look and listen for the presence of trains.
Decelerate smoothly, brake evenly, change gears
as necessary. Check traffic in all directions.
Do not stop, change gears, pass another vehicle,
Bring your vehicle to a full stop without coasting. or change lanes while any part of your vehicle is in
the crossing.
Once stopped:

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

If you are driving a bus, a school bus, or a vehicle Double-clutch when shifting. Do not rev or lug the
displaying placards, you should be prepared to engine.
observe the following procedures at every railroad
Do not ride clutch to control speed, coast with the
crossing (unless the crossing is exempt):
clutch depressed, or "pop" the clutch.
As the vehicle approaches a railroad crossing,
activate the four-way flashers. 13.1.12 – Gear Usage (for Manual
Stop the vehicle within 50 feet but not less than Transmission)
15 feet from the nearest rail. Do not grind or clash gears.
Listen and look in both directions along the track Select gear that does not rev or lug engine.
for an approaching train and for signals indicating
the approach of a train. If operating a bus, you Do not shift in turns and intersections.
may also be required to open the window and
door prior to crossing tracks. 13.1.13 – Brake Usage
Keep hands on the steering wheel as the vehicle Do not ride or pump brake.
crosses the tracks.
Do not brake harshly. Brake smoothly using
Do not stop, change gears, or change lanes while steady pressure.
any part of your vehicle is proceeding across the
tracks. 13.1.14 – Lane Usage
Four-way flashers should be deactivated after the Do not put vehicle over curbs, sidewalks, or lane
vehicle crosses the tracks. markings.
Continue to check mirrors and traffic. Stop behind stop lines, crosswalks, or stop signs.
Complete a turn in the proper lane on a multiple
Not all driving road test routes will have a railroad
lane road (vehicle should finish a left turn in the
crossing. You may be asked to explain and
lane directly to the right of the center line).
demonstrate the proper railroad crossing
procedures to the examiner at a simulated Finish a right turn in the right-most (curb) lane.
location.
Move to or remain in right-most lane unless lane
is blocked.
13.1.9 – Bridge/Overpass/Sign
After driving under an overpass, you may be asked
to tell the examiner what the posted clearance or 13.1.15 – Steering
height was. After going over a bridge, you may be
asked to tell the examiner what the posted weight Do not over or under steer the vehicle.
limit was. If your test route does not have a bridge Keep both hands on the steering wheel at all
or overpass, you may be asked about another times unless shifting. Once you have completed
traffic sign. When asked, be prepared to identify shift, return both hands to the steering wheel.
and explain to the examiner any traffic sign which 13.1.16 – Regular Traffic Checks
may appear on the route.
Check traffic regularly.
13.1.10 – Student Discharge (School Bus) Check mirrors regularly.
If you are applying for a School Bus endorsement,
you will be required to demonstrate loading and Check mirrors and traffic before, while in and
unloading students. Please refer to section 10 of after an intersection.
this manual for procedures on loading and Scan and check traffic in high volume areas and
unloading school students. areas where pedestrians are expected to be
present.
You will be scored on your overall performance
in the following general driving behavior
categories: 13.1.17 – Use of Turn Signals
Use turn signals properly.
13.1.11 – Clutch Usage (for Manual
Transmission) Activate turn signals when required.

Always use clutch to shift. Activate turn signals at appropriate times.

Cancel turn signals upon completion of a turn or
lane change.
Section 13 – On-Road Driving Page 13–3
2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

do not mark the crossing. Crosswalks are

Section 14 intended to encourage people to cross only at
Sharing the Road Safely certain locations. As you know, some people will
cross at locations other than cross walks. As the
The Road Has Many Users person controlling the potentially dangerous
machine, (your vehicle) it’s your job to “play it safe”
where pedestrians are concerned and protect
Our streets and highways are becoming more them when you see they may be in danger.
crowded every day. Whether you are driving your Regardless of the rules of the road or right-of-way,
car, truck, SUV, RV, riding your bike, or merely the law specifically requires YOU, as a driver, to
walking, you share the road with other vehicles exercise great care and extreme caution to avoid
and drivers. We always need to be aware that we striking pedestrians.
as drivers are not the only users of our streets and
highways and other persons have certain rights
and privileges on the highways of which drivers Your Role as a Driver
must be aware and must respect. We share the
road with: Drivers should not block the crosswalk when
stopped at a red light or waiting to make a turn.
• Pedestrians You also should not stop with a portion of your
vehicle over the crosswalk area. Blocking the
• Bicyclists crosswalk forces pedestrians to go around your
• Motorcyclists and motor-driven vehicle and puts them in a dangerous situation.
bicycles
• Large Trucks and Buses • As a driver it is your responsibility to yield
• Slow Moving Vehicles and the right-of-way, slowing down or stopping
Equipment if need be to yield to a pedestrian crossing
the roadway within a crosswalk when the
• Highway Work Zones
pedestrian is upon half of the roadway or
when the pedestrian is approaching so
As responsible drivers we must know and practice closely from the opposite half of the
the rules for sharing the road safely. You should roadway as to be in danger.
always be aware of the traffic around you and be
prepared for emergency situations. Use common • When in a marked school zone when a
sense and courtesy with other users of our streets warning flasher or flashers are in
and highways. operation, as a driver you shall stop to
yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian
Your responsibility as a defensive driver includes crossing the roadway within a marked
making allowances for and adapting to the other crosswalk or at an intersection with no
persons and vehicles on the road. There are skills marked crosswalk. You shall remain
and techniques you should use for sharing the stopped until the pedestrian has crossed
road. Knowing what to do and how to do it can the roadway on which your vehicle is
help you stay alive and avoid damaging your stopped. Remember it’s the law!
vehicle or someone else’s vehicle or causing
bodily injury to other highway users. • Be alert to persons entering the roadway
or crosswalks any location where
SHARING THE ROAD WITH pedestrian traffic heavy.
PEDESTRIANS • Be alert to pedestrians to the right of your
vehicle and be especially watchful for
As a driver you must recognize the special safety pedestrians when you are making a right
needs of pedestrians. Any person afoot or using a turn.
motorized or non-motorized wheelchair are
considered a pedestrian by state law. You should • You must immediately yield to pedestrians
be especially alert for young, elderly, disabled and as soon as they step off the curb into the
intoxicated pedestrians. They are the most roadway when the pedestrian is on your
frequent victims in auto-pedestrian collisions. half of the road/land or so close to your
half of the road that they are in a position
Generally, pedestrians have the right-of-way at all of danger.
intersections. There is a crosswalk at every
intersection, even if painted lines and boundaries
Section 14 – Sharing the Road Safely Page 14-1
2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

• Always yield to blind pedestrians Here are some safety tips that can keep you safe
carrying a white, metallic, red tipped when walking from one destination to another.
white cane or using a guide dog.
WALKING
• Children are often the least predictable
pedestrians and the most difficult to see. Pedestrians must walk along sidewalks when
Take extra care to look out for children available. It is unlawful for pedestrians to walk in
in residential areas and at times and the road where there are sidewalks.
places where children are likely to be
around. (school zones, playgrounds, When there are no sidewalks, always walk on the
parks, near ice cream or snack vendor left side of the road facing traffic (traffic should be
vehicles /carts). coming toward you), this allows you to see any
sudden dangers coming at you. Two or more
• Yield to pedestrians walking on the pedestrians should walk in single file and never
sidewalk when you’re entering or leaving side by side of each other.
a driveway, public parking garage, alley
or parking lot and your path of travel
crosses the sidewalk. BE ALERT

• Don’t honk your horn, rev up your Be alert and ready to move out of the way in case
engine or do anything to rush or scare a a driver cannot see you. It is not a good idea to
pedestrian in front of your vehicle, even walk or jog along busy roadways while wearing
if you have the legal right-of -way. audio headphones or listening to portable audio
devices. You may not hear the important traffic
sounds that would help you avoid potential
Your Role as a Pedestrian dangers.

Most of us cross streets and highways every day. WATCH YOUR WALKWAYS
We take for granted that we can cross without
incident, because most of the time we do.
However, sometimes we aren’t so fortunate. Each Walk on sidewalks and in crosswalks whenever
year approximately 7,000 pedestrians die and possible. It is important to pay attention to walk
100,000 are injured in traffic related accidents. signals and keep a safe distance when standing
Young children and the elderly are more likely to on street corners. Trucks and buses make wide
be killed or injured in a pedestrian related traffic right turns and occasionally run up onto the corner
accident. of the sidewalk. It is important for you to be alert
and to move back. Mostly likely, the truck driver
will not see you or may be distracted and you
While it is easy to blame drivers, they are not could be seriously injured or killed if hit.
always responsible for these crashes. All too
often, pedestrians are the cause of such accidents.
These senseless tragedies don’t have to happen. KNOW YOUR NO-ZONES
You can avoid potential injuries and even death by
reviewing the advice for safe street crossing. You Be careful of the blind spots, or No-Zones, around
too will be a pedestrian on occasion. So learn and cars, trucks, and buses when walking near or
obey the common sense rules when the roles are around them. Always assume the driver does not
reversed. know that you are there. Because of a truck’s large
blind spots, a driver may not see, so it is up to you
When you are a pedestrian, do all you can to make to avoid a crash. Never walk behind a truck when
yourself visible and to help prevent crashes. it is backing up; truck drivers cannot see directly
behind the truck and could seriously injure you.
Safety Tips for Pedestrians

As a pedestrian, you are at a major disadvantage

when crossing streets, intersections and standing
on corners. You are not always visible to drivers;
especially for large truck and bus drivers and you
don’t stand a chance if a vehicle hits you.
Pedestrians need to be careful of all vehicles and
never take chances when they are sharing the
road with large vehicles, like trucks and buses.
Section 14 – Sharing the Road Safely Page 14-2
2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

OVERHEAD VIEW OF “NO-ZONE” AREAS Continue to check for approaching traffic

while crossing.

NO-ZONE
At intersections with traffic lights and

NO-ZONE
NO-ZONE
pedestrian signals, it’s important to follow the
signals carefully. Pedestrians may cross on
green traffic signal or when you see the WALK

NO-ZONE
Signal, following the basic rules for crossing.

If you are in the middle of the street and the

DON”T WALK signal starts flashing, continue
walking. You will have time to complete the
STOPPING DISTANCES crossing.

Use caution when crossing intersections and Pedestrians may NOT cross on a red or yellow
streets. You may think vehicles will stop for traffic light, or on a red-green combines light
you, but they may not see you or even be able unless facing a WALK signal. (This is red for
to stop. Remember, trucks, cars, motorcycles turn(s) while green is for straight traffic or vice
and bicyclists, all have different stopping versa).
capabilities. In fact, trucks can take much more
space to stop than passenger vehicles. Never
On a green arrow, whether alone or
take a chance with a truck, even if the driver
accompanied by a stead red or yellow, you
sees you he may not be able to stop.
may enter the road ONLY if you can do so
safely without interfering with vehicle traffic.
MAKE YOURSELF VISIBLE
The WALK signal and the green traffic light
Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially indicate that it’s your turn to cross the street,
when walking at night. Dressing to be seen will but they do NOT mean it is SAFE to cross.
make it safer for you and drivers. Professional The WALK signal, the GREEN light means
drivers do a lot of driving at night, and there’s a LOOK and then IF it’s safe, proceed to cross.
good chance a truck driver will not see you if
you don’t make yourself visible. Carrying a
Although drivers must yield to pedestrians
flashlight is your safest bet for being seen at
crossing the roadway, pedestrians must not
night.
suddenly leave a curb or other safe waiting
place and walk into the path of vehicle traffic if
WATCH OUT FOR WIDE LOADS it so close that it is an immediate hazard.
Vehicles cannot stop at once!
Trucks with wide loads have very limited
visibility as well as difficulty maneuvering. Wide SHARING THE ROAD WITH BICYCLES
loads are much heavier and take up lots of
room on the road. You need to be aware when On most roadways, bicyclists have the same rights
walking near a truck with a wide load, because and responsibilities as other roadway users and in
the driver may not see you. Trucks with wide most cases, they must share the lane. Bicyclists
loads make even wider right turns, require are prohibited on limited-access highways,
more space, and take even longer to stop than expressways and certain other marked roadways.
other trucks on the road. Remember to keep Bicyclists are required to travel on the right hand
your distance when walking around these large side of the road and travel in the same direction as
trucks. vehicles. They must ride as near to the right side of
the road as practical, while avoiding road hazards
Crossing that could cause them to swerve into traffic. When
you are sharing the road with bicycles, you should
always expect the rider to make sudden moves.
Before crossing, stop at the curb, edge of the
Trash, minor oil slicks, a pothole, or crack in the
road, or corner before proceeding.
concrete, a barking dog, a parked car or a car door
opening as well as other surprises can force a
Look left-right-left, and if it’s clear, begin bicycle rider to swerve suddenly in front of you.
crossing, look over your shoulder for turning
vehicles.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Similarly, when cyclists are traveling past parked turn. Also, if your vehicle is sharing the left
cars, they tend to move away from the cars, toward turn lane with a bicyclist, stay behind them
the center of the lane. This is to avoid injuring or until they have safely completed their turn.
being injured by, persons getting out of those cars.
In such cases, the bicyclist is operating the bicycle • If your vehicle is turning right and a
properly. If possible, give the cyclist the entire bicyclist is approaching on the right, let the
lane. When road conditions prevent this, pass the bicyclist go through the intersection first
cyclist with extreme caution. Cyclists who are not before making a right turn. Remember to
on the extreme right hand side of the lane are not always signal your turns.
being careless, but are in fact attempting to
• Merge with bicycle traffic when preparing
account for traffic conditions and/or preparing to
for a right turn. Don’t turn directly across
make a left turn.
the path of the bicyclist.
• Drivers often fail to pick the bicyclist out of
Bicycles are hard to see. The riders are exposed
the traffic scene, or inaccurately judge the
and easily injured in a collision. Oncoming bicycle
speed of cyclists making a left turn.
traffic is often overlooked or its speed misjudged.
• Watch for bicycle riders turning in front of
When following bicyclists, give them plenty of room you without looking or signaling, especially
and be prepared to stop quickly. Use extra caution if the rider is a child.
during rainy and icy weather. At night do not use • Most bicyclists maintain eye contact with
high beams when you see an oncoming bicycle drivers of vehicles around them,
rider. particularly when the cyclist or vehicle is
making a turn. Before turning, a driver
Safety Tips for Drivers: should attempt to gain and maintain eye
contact with the bicyclist to ensure a safer
turn.
• When passing and overtaking a bicyclist
proceeding in the same direction, do so
slowly and leave at least a distance Residential Areas are Danger Zones for
between you and the bicycle of not less Bicycles
than 3 feet. It’s the law! Also be sure to
maintain this clearance until safely past the Bicyclists may ride in the middle of the street and
overtaken bicycle. disregard stop signs and traffic signals. BE
CAREFUL in all neighborhood areas where
• A driver should never attempt passing
between a bicyclist and oncoming vehicles children and teenagers might be riding.
on a two-lane road. Slow down and allow
vehicles to pass the rider safely. Children riding bicycles create special problems for
drivers. Children are not capable of proper
• NEVER pass a bicycle if the street is too
judgment in determining traffic conditions. Drivers
narrow or you would force the bicyclist too
should be alert to the possibility of erratic
close to parked vehicles. Wait until there
movement and sudden changes in direction when
is enough room to let you pass safely.
children on bicycles are present.
• If you are about to pass a bicycle on a
narrow road and you think the rider doesn’t
Watch out for bikes coming out of driveways or
know your coming, tap your horn gently
from behind parked cars or other obstructions.
and briefly as a signal that you’re going to
pass. Don’t blast your horn or otherwise
startle or try to intimidate the bicyclist. Bicyclists riding at night present visibility problems
for drivers. At night, watch the side of the road for
• The most common causes of collisions
bicyclists. Bicyclists are required to have proper
are drivers turning left in front of an illumination, a front and rear deflector, but drivers
oncoming bicycle or turning right, across should be aware that bicyclists are not easily seen.
the path of the bicycle.
Lights from approaching traffic may make them
• When your vehicle is turning left and there even harder to see at night.
is a bicyclist entering the intersection from
the opposite direction, you should wait for If you see a bicyclist with a red or orange pennant
the bicyclist to pass before making the flag on the antennae attached to the bike, slow
down: this is a common symbol to indicate the rider
has impaired hearing.

Section 14 – Sharing the Road Safely Page 14-4

2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Lane Positions for Bicycles CHECK YOUR BRAKES

Bicyclists are required to ride as far right in the Always check your brakes so that you are
lane as possible only when a car and a bicycle, prepared to stop. Also remember that a truck
side by side, can safely share the lane. Even then, requires more space to stop than you do on your
there are certain times when a bicycle can take the bike. Never assume that a truck will be able to stop
full lane. quickly if you get in the way. You may have to get
out of the way to save your own life.
A bicyclist should be allowed full use of the lane
when: RIDE WITH TRAFFIC
The rider is overtaking and passing another vehicle
going in the same direction. Avoiding a crash is the safest way to ride. Ride on
the right side, with the flow of traffic. Riding against
If the lane is marked and signed for bicycle use traffic may cause you to miss traffic control
only, drivers must NEVER use this lane as a devices, such as traffic signs and stop lights. Be
turning lane, passing lane or for parking. especially careful when riding near or around
There are unsafe conditions in the roadway, such trucks and buses. Use caution and pay attention to
as parked cares, moving vehicles or machinery, trucks. Watch for their signals because the driver
fixed obstacles, pedestrians, animals, potholes or may not see you or be able to stop soon enough in
debris. an emergency situation. However, you should to
be prepared in case the truck’s signals don’t work
The lane is too narrow for both a car and a bicycle or the driver doesn’t use them. That is why you, as
to safely share the lane. In this case it is safest to the bicyclist, need to watch out for yourself. For a
let the bicycle take the full lane. bike rider, the safest bet is to always be aware of
the traffic around you.
Safety Tips for Bicyclists
BEWARE OF THE NO-ZONE
Bicycles are the most vulnerable of all vehicles on
the road. As a bicyclist riding in traffic or on the Beware of riding your bicycle too closely to a large
sidewalk, you should take extra precautions to truck. Large trucks have blind spots in the front,
protect yourself. Vehicles on the road, especially back and on the sides, which make it difficult for
large trucks and buses, may not see you on your the driver to see around them. If you ride in these
bike. Crossing the street or making a turn can be blind spots, truck drivers cannot see you and your
dangerous in traffic if others do not see you or your chance for a crash are greatly increased.
signals. The tips below can help keep you riding
safely.
OVERHEAD VIEW OF “NO-ZONE” AREAS
WEAR YOUR HELMET
NO-ZONE

Before you get on your bike, put on a helmet. It is

NO-ZONE
NO-ZONE

the best thing you can do to be safe. Bikes offer no

protection in case of a crash, so you need to wear
your protection. Wearing your helmet may save
NO-ZONE

your life if you are hit by or run into a large truck or

bus. Remember, riding into a truck is equivalent to
hitting a steel wall. Your helmet is your life.

BIKERS BEWARE To learn more specifics on bicycle riding and

Always be aware of the traffic around you. This is safety contact:
especially important when riding in traffic with large
trucks and buses. Trucks and buses make wide The League of American Bicyclists
right turns. Never sneak in between a truck or bus 1612 K Street NW, Suite 800
Washington, DC 20006
and the curb or you could get crushed. Never
202-822-1333
assume that all drivers see your hand signals or
will yield for you. Assume you are invisible to other
road users and ride defensively.

Section 14 – Sharing the Road Safely Page 14-5

2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

SHARING THE ROAD WITH prepare for upcoming traffic conditions.

MOTORCYCLES Expect and allow room for the rider to
adjust to road hazards that you can’t see.
Research shows that two-thirds of car-motorcycle At intersections, where most collisions and
collisions are caused, not by the motorcyclist, but injuries occur, wait until the rider’s
by the driver who turned in front of the motorcycle. intentions are absolutely clear (turning or
The drivers didn’t see the motorcycles at all or going straight) before you move into the
didn’t see them until it was too late to avoid the path of travel. Be even more careful in
collision. difficult driving conditions- rain, wet roads,
ice and heavy winds- when the
Why Drivers Don’t Always See Motorcyclists motorcyclist’s braking and handling
abilities are impaired.
Drivers tend to look for other cars and trucks, not
• Pay Extra Attention at Night- You can
for motorcycles. The profile of a motorcycle is easily misjudge distance because the
narrow and the body is short, making it harder to single headlight or single tail light of a
see and making it harder for a driver to estimate motorcycle can blend into the lights of
the cycle’s distance and speed. other vehicles. Always dim your
headlights as you would for other cars and
Motorcycle riding requires frequent lane trucks.
movements to adjust to changing road and traffic
conditions. • Drive Aware- Whenever you are on the
road or at an intersection with a
Motorcycles have the right to the use of the full motorcycle, use extra caution and care.
lane. Riders need the lane’s full width to respond Learn to watch for the narrow profile.
to and handle hazards such as potholes, shifting
traffic blocking them from being seen or strong Hazards that can affect Motorcyclists’
winds or blasts of air from passing vehicles. You Maneuvers:
must never try to share a lane with a motorcycle,
Special conditions and situations may cause
and you should always respect the cycle’s space
problems for motorcyclists which drivers need to
and position in traffic.
anticipate. Drivers should be aware of these
problems, so they can help share the road safely
Driver Tips for Sharing the Road with with motorcyclists. Here are a few examples:
Motorcycles:
Bad weather and slippery surfaces cause greater
• Passing- Pass as you would pass a car, problems for motorcyclists than for cars. The
and don’t pass too close or too fast as the conditions create stability problems for all vehicles.
blast of air can blow a motorcycle out of Allow more following distance for cyclists when the
control. road surface is wet and slippery. Also be alert to the
problem of glare that rain and we surfaces create,
• Left turns- Always signal your intention to
especially at night.
turn. Watch for oncoming motorcycles.

• Following Distance- Allow sufficient Strong cross winds can move a cycle out of its lane
following distance, so the motorcycle rider of travel. Areas where this can happen are wide
has enough time to maneuver or stop in open, long stretches of highways and bridges.
an emergency. Both cyclists and drivers Large, fast-moving trucks sometimes create wind
are more likely to make bad decisions if blasts which under certain conditions, can move the
there is not enough stopping distance or cyclists out of their path of travel.
time to see and react to conditions.
Railroad grade crossings are a particular hazard to
• Check your Blind Spots when cyclists, and will usually cause them to slow down
Changing Lanes- Motorcyclists riding and possibly zigzag to cross the tracks head on.
alongside a lane of trucks or cars are often
out of view of the driver. An unsuspecting
driver may change lanes and clip or hit a
motorcycle.
Metal or grated bridges cause a cycle to wobble
• Anticipate Motorcyclists’ Maneuvers - much more than a car. An experienced cyclist
A cyclist will change lane position to slows down and moves to the center of the lane to
Section 14 – Sharing the Road Safely Page 14-6
2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

allow room for handling the uneven surface. An DRIVE TO SURVIVE

inexperienced cyclist may become startled and try
to quickly change direction. Be prepared for either Motorcycles are the smallest vehicles on the road.
reaction. Unfortunately they provide virtually no protection in
Being aware of these situations and consciously a crash. Other drivers may not see you on your
looking out for motorcyclists can help you share motorcycle, so you must be aware of everything on
the road safely. the road. Be extra cautious, paying attention to the
signals and brake lights of other vehicles,
especially trucks. However, you still need to be
Safety Tips for Motorcyclists prepared in the event their signals or lights don’t
work. Ride with caution and drive defensively.
Among all motor vehicles, motorcycles are the Even though your motorcycle may be small, you
most vulnerable on the road. Because motorcycles must adhere to the laws of the road. Never ride in
do not have seat belts, you can be thrown off your between lanes in traffic or share a lane with
seat in a crash, which can result in serious injury another vehicle. Don’t instigate aggressive driving
or even death. Imagine your chance for survival if with other motorists; you will only increase your
a truck strikes you, or if you strike it. Hitting a truck chance of a crash.
is like hitting a steel wall. However, your chance
for survival will be increased if you wear a helmet CHECK YOURSELF AND YOUR BIKE
and follow the safety tips below when riding your
motorcycle. Conduct a safety inspection of your motorcycle
before each ride, and wear protective clothing
including gloves, boots and a jacket. Proper
WATCH THE NO-ZONES maintenance and protective clothing will help
reduce your chance of an crash or the severity of
Never hang out in a truck’s blind spot or “No- injury if you are involved in a crash, especially with
Zone.” Trucks have large No-Zones on both sides, a large truck or bus.
the front and behind the truck. Truck drivers
cannot see you when you ride in these blind spots, WATCH YOUR SPEED
which allows for a greater chance of a crash. The
front blind spot is particularly dangerous if you Of all vehicles, motorcycles accelerate the fastest,
need to stop quickly. Because of their lightweight while trucks and buses are the slowest. Please
and braking system, motorcycles can stop much watch your speed around trucks, especially in bad
faster than trucks. A truck may not be able to stop weather or at night. Colliding with the back of a car
as quickly as you do, so you need to take special or truck will end your riding days.
precautions to avoid crashes before they happen. To learn more about motorcycle safety, pick up
OVERHEAD VIEW OF “NO-ZONE” AREAS a copy of the Tennessee Motorcycle Operator
Manual at any Driver License Service Center.
NO-ZONE

Additional information and an electronic copy

NO-ZONE
NO-ZONE

of this manual is available online at

tn.gov/safety.
NO-ZONE

Safety Tips for Car Drivers

When driving on the highway you are at a serious
disadvantage if involved in a crash with a larger
vehicle. In crashes involving large trucks, the
ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET occupants of a car, usually the driver, sustain 78
percent of fatalities. In order to keep you and your
Make sure to always wear a helmet. Beware of family safe when driving around large trucks and
helmets that do not meet U.S. Department of buses, you should be extra cautious. Sharing the
Transportation (DOT) standards. Check for the road with larger vehicles can be dangerous if you
DOT label inside your helmet. Helmets are the are not aware of their limitations. Here are a few
most important piece of equipment you can wear tips to help you drive safer to prevent an accident
when riding your motorcycle. A helmet could be and minimize injuries and fatalities if one does
your only source of protection in a serious crash. occur.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

CUTTING IN FRONT CAN CUT YOUR LIFE INATTENTIVE DRIVERS

SHORT
Inattentive drivers do not pay attention to driving or
If you cut in front of another vehicle, you may what is going on around them. They can be just as
create an emergency-braking situation for the dangerous as aggressive drivers when they drive
vehicles around you, especially in heavy traffic. slowly in the passing lane, ignore trucks brake
Trucks and buses take much longer to stop in lights or signals, and create an emergency-braking
comparison to cars. If you force a larger vehicle to situation. They also create dangerous situations
stop quickly this could cause a serious, even fatal when they attempt to do other things while driving,
accident. When passing, look for the front of the such as using cell phones. When you are driving,
truck in your rear-view mirror before pulling in front please focus only on the road. If you need to
and avoid braking situations! attend to another matter while driving, safely pull
over in a parking lot or rest stop.
BUCKLE YOUR SAFETY BELTS
AGGRESSIVE DRIVERS
Always buckle your safety belt. Safety belts are
your best protection in case of a crash, especially Aggressive drivers can be dangerous drivers. They
if you get into an accident with a large vehicle such put themselves and others at risk with their unsafe
as a truck. Trucks require a greater stopping driving. Speeding, running red lights and stop
distance and can seriously hurt you if your car is signs, pulling in front of trucks too quickly when
struck from behind. However, your safety belt will passing, and making frequent lane changes,
keep you from striking the steering wheel or especially in the blind spots of trucks, can create
windshield, being thrown around, and from being dangerous and potentially fatal situations on the
ejected from the car. Wearing a safety belt is the road. These situations can lead to road rage not
single most important thing you can do to save only for the aggressive driver, but also for others
your life, especially in a crash with a large truck. sharing the road.

WATCH YOUR BLIND SPOTS – THE “NO- AVOID SQUEEZE PLAY

ZONES”
Be careful of trucks making wide right turns. If you
Large trucks have blind spots, or No-Zones, try to get in between the truck and the curb, you’ll
around the front, back and sides of the truck. be caught in a “squeeze” and can suffer a serious
Watch out! A truck could even turn into you, accident. Truck drivers sometimes need to swing
because these No-Zones make it difficult for the wide to the left in order to safely negotiate a right
driver to see. So, don’t hang out in the No-Zones, turn especially in urban areas. They can’t see cars
and remember, if you can’t see the truck driver in directly behind or beside them. Cutting in between
the truck’s mirror, the truck driver can’t see you. the truck and the curb increases the possibility of a
crash. So pay attention to truck signals, and give
them lots of room to maneuver.
OVERHEAD VIEW OF “NO-ZONE” AREAS
NEVER DRINK AND DRIVE
NO-ZONE

Drinking and driving don’t mix. Alcohol affects a

NO-ZONE
NO-ZONE

person’s ability to make crucial driving decisions,

such as braking, steering, or changing lanes.
Remember, you are not the only one in danger
NO-ZONE

when you decide to drink and then drive. You are

sharing the road with everyone including large
vehicles and your chances of getting into an
accident are greatly increased. If you get into an
accident with a truck, you’re out of luck. The odds
of surviving a serious accident with a large truck
are too low. However, if you do live through it
without serious injury, think of your higher
insurance rates, your large legal fees, and other
social and professional setbacks it will cause you.
So think before you drink.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

SHARING THE ROAD WITH LARGE Truck drivers are always watching for automobiles
TRUCKS AND BUSES and smaller vehicles and working to avoid
collisions. There are some techniques that you
You will always be sharing the road with trucks can use to help them and yourself share the road
because they haul more freight more miles than safely and reduce the likelihood of a collision with
any other form of transportation. Trucks are the a large vehicle.
sole method of delivery and pickup for
approximately seventy-seven percent (77%) of Do NOT enter a roadway in front of a large vehicle.
A truck or bus cannot slow down or stop as quickly
America’s communities.
as an automobile. By pulling out in front of these
vehicles, you could easily cause a rear-end
A typical tractor-trailer combination, a loaded semi- collision.
trailer hinged and being pulled by tractor unit may
weigh up to 80,000 pounds or 40 tons. Depending Do NOT drive directly behind a truck or bus. Keep
on the trailer length, the total length of the a reasonable distance between your vehicle and
combination may exceed 70 feet. the large vehicle ahead. This gives you a better
view of the road to anticipate problems, and you
The number of trucks that were involved in fatal will give yourself room for an emergency “out”.
accidents nationally has decreased by 35%
percent from 2005 to 2009. When driving on a Do NOT cut abruptly in front of a large vehicle. If
highway you are at a serious disadvantage if you are exiting, it will only take a few extra seconds
involved with a larger vehicle. In crashes involving to slow down and exit behind the truck. Cutting off
large trucks, the occupants of a car, usually the a large vehicle on the interstate is particularly
driver, sustain 75% the fatalities. dangerous because of the high speeds being
traveled.
Many truck-car crashes could be avoided if drivers
know about truck (and bus) limitations and how to When passing a large vehicle, do NOT pull back
steer clear of unsafe situations involving large over into the lane in front of the truck unless you
vehicles. Seems obvious, doesn’t it? But the fact can see the whole front of the vehicle in your
is that while most people realize it is more difficult rearview mirror. Complete your pass as quickly as
to drive a truck than a car, many don’t know possible and don’t stay along side the truck. Do
exactly what a truck’s limitations are in terms of NOT slow down once you are in front of the truck.
maneuverability, stopping distances, and blind-
spots. Remember: Large trucks, recreational Position your vehicle so you are outside the truck
vehicles and buses are not simply big cars. The driver’s “blind spots”, and be sure the truck driver
bigger they are: can see YOU in the side rearview mirror. If you
can’t see the truck’s mirror, the driver cannot see
1. The bigger their blind spots. Trucks have YOU. A truck’s blind spots are immediate in front,
deep blind spots in front, behind and on both on either side of the cab and up to 200 feet in the
sides. Make sure you position your vehicle so rear. A trucker may not be able to see the road
that the driver of the truck can see you in the directly in front of the cab. If the tractor has a long
side mirrors of his truck. hood, the trucker may not be able to see the first
10-20 feet in front of the bumper-plenty of room for
2. The longer it takes trucks to stop. A car a motorcycle or car to slip unnoticed into a
traveling at 55 MPH can stop in 240 feet dangerous position.
however, a truck traveling at the same speed of
55 MPH, takes about 450+ feet to stop. If you are stopped behind a truck on an uphill
grade, stay to the left in your lane so the driver can
3. The more room they need to maneuver, see you. When stopped in a traffic lane, leave
such as making right turns. Trucks must swing extra space in front of your car in case the truck
wide to the left to safely negotiate a right turn. rolls back when it starts to move.
They cannot see motorcycles or cars behind or
beside them. Pay close attention to the large vehicle’s turn
signals. Trucks make wide right turns that require
4. The longer it takes to pass them. them to swing to the left before turning right.
Always make sure you know which way the vehicle
5. As stated above, the more likely you are to is turning before trying to pass.
be the “loser” in a collision.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Do not linger beside a large vehicle because you • When you meet a truck/bus coming from
may not be visible to the driver in the wide area the the opposite direction, keep as far as
truck needs for maneuvering a turn. possible to the right of the road to avoid
being sideswiped and to reduce wind
When you are near a Commercial Vehicle Weigh turbulence between vehicles. The
Station, avoid driving in the right lane so slow- turbulence PUSHES vehicles APART. It
moving trucks can easily merge back onto the does NOT suck them together.
roadway.
The “Right Turn Squeeze”: Trucks make wide
Dim your lights at night. Bright lights reflected in right turns and often must leave an open space on
the mirrors can blind the driver. the right side. Do NOT move into that space or try
to pass a truck if it might be making a right turn. If
Never underestimate the size and speed of you are between the truck and the curb, the driver
approaching trucks and buses. Because of their may not be able to see you and your car can be
large size they often appear to be traveling crunched or sideswiped by the truck’s trailer.
more slowly than their actual speed.
A Truck Backing Up: When a truck is trying to
Risky Situations with Large Vehicles back into a loading dock, there may be no choice
except to block the roadway for a short time.
Passing a Large Vehicle: A tractor-trailer or other Never try to cross behind a truck when it is
combination vehicles take a longer time and preparing to back up. This is a high-collision
requires more space to get around than a car. situation because you will be in the driver’s blind
spots. Give the driver plenty of room and wait
• On a two-way road, leave yourself more patiently for the few minutes it takes to complete
time and space when passing these the maneuver.
large vehicles. Check to your front and
rear and move into the passing lane only Maintaining a Safety Cushion with Large
if it is clear and you are in a legal Vehicles: As stated previously, trucks and buses
passing zone. need more maneuvering room and stopping
distance than small vehicles. A good safety
• If the truck or bus driver blink their strategy is to leave plenty of space between your
vehicle headlights after you pass, it’s a vehicle and the larger vehicle, especially in these
signal that you are cleared to pull back in situations:
front of their vehicle. Move back only
when you can see the front of the truck If you are driving in front of a truck, keep your
in your rearview mirror. speed up so you maintain a safe distance in front
of the truck. Always indicate your intention to turn
• Remember that on an upgrade or steep or change lanes early enough for the driver of the
hill, a large vehicle usually loses speed. truck or bus to prepare for your maneuver. Avoid
sudden moves, slow downs or stops.
• Because of their weight, trucks travel
faster downhill and you may have to Don’t cut in front of a truck or bus, or you remove
increase your speed to pass a truck on a the driver’s cushion of safety.
downhill grade. Complete your pass as
quickly as possible and don’t stay When following a truck or bus, it is a good idea to
alongside the truck. After you pass, add more following distance.
maintain your speed. Don’t pass a truck,
then slow down, making the truck driver If rain or water is standing on the road, spray from
brake while traveling downhill. a truck passing you, or the truck you are trying to
pass, will seriously reduce your vision. You should
• When a truck passes you, you can help move as far away from the truck as you can, while
the driver by keeping to the far side of staying in your lane.
your lane and reducing your speed
slightly. NEVER SPEED UP AS A Don’t drive too close to trucks that are transporting
TRUCK OR BUS IS PASSING. hazardous materials, since they make frequent
stops, such as railroad crossings.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Hills or Mountain Roads: Beware of dangers 4. Truck and bus drivers often cannot see
caused by slower moving trucks or buses on steep vehicles directly behind or beside them when
hills, inclines, or mountain roads. Watch for slow they are attempting to safely negotiate a right
moving trucks or buses going both up and down turn. If you cut in between the truck or bus and
hills. Heavy vehicles cannot maintain speed when the curb or shoulder to the right, it greatly
climbing hills and must go slowly down hills to stay increases the possibility of a crash in this “right
under control. turn squeeze’.

Watch for trucks or buses that may be in trouble.

Smoking wheels or a high speed can be a sign of
brake loss. If you encounter this situation, fall back OVERHEAD VIEW OF “NO-ZONE” AREAS
and DO NOT pass.

NO-ZONE
Runaway Truck Ramps: These ramps are

NO-ZONE
NO-ZONE
designed to stop out-of-control trucks or buses
going down step downgrades. Vehicles should
never stop or park in these areas.

NO-ZONE
Learn the “NO-ZONES” for large vehicles:

Many drivers falsely assume that trucks and buses

can see the road better because they sit twice as
high as the driver of a small vehicle. While trucks
and buses do enjoy a better forward view and have
bigger mirrors, they have serious blind spots into
which a small vehicle can disappear from view.

The NO-ZONE represents danger areas SHARING THE ROAD WITH SCHOOL
around trucks and buses where crashes are more BUSES
likely to occur.
School buses are one of the safest forms of
1. The area approximately up to 20 feet transportation in the nation- nearly 2,000 times
directly in front of a large vehicle is considered safer than the family car. Crashes are rare
a NO-ZONE. When small vehicles cut in too because school systems and the school bus
soon after passing or changing lanes, then contractors work hard to train drivers to avoid
abruptly slow down, trucks and buses are crashes. The reality of school bus safety is that
forced to compensate with very little room or more children are hurt outside a bus than inside
time to spare. one. Children are at greatest risk when they
are getting on or off the school bus. Most of the
2. Unlike small vehicles, trucks and buses children killed in bus related crashes are
have deep blind spots directly behind them. pedestrians, five to seven years old; they are hit by
Avoid following too closely in this NO-ZONE. If the bus or by motorists illegally passing a stopped
you stay in the rear blind spot of a large school bus. In fact pedestrian fatalities while
vehicle, you increase the possibility of a traffic loading and unloading school buses accounted for
crash. The driver of the bus or truck cannot nearly three out of every four fatalities. The child
see your motorcycle or car and your view of the who bends over to retrieve a dropped school
traffic ahead will be severely reduced. paper, or who walks too close to the bus while
crossing the street, needs to be aware that every
3. Large vehicles have much larger blind school bus is surrounded by a danger zone.
spots on both sides than cars do. When you
drive in these blind spots for any length of time,
the vehicle’s driver cannot see you. When
passing, even if the vehicle’s driver knows you
are there, remaining alongside a large vehicle
too long makes it impossible for the driver to
take evasive action if an obstacle appears in
the roadway ahead.

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2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

Safety Tips for Drivers

Drivers must be familiar with the Danger Zone.

Since children are taught to take the “five giant
steps” from the school bus for safety, drivers must
ensure that they stop far enough from the bus to
allow for this needed safety space.

SHARING THE ROAD WITH SLOW

MOVING VEHICLES AND
EQUIPMENT

Certain slow-moving farm vehicles, Construction

equipment and vehicles drawn by animals may
share our roadways. Use caution and prepare to
slow down when approaching and passing slow-
moving vehicles from the rear.

Be alert for slow-moving vehicles, especially in rural

areas. Driving on empty rural highways can be just
as dangerous as driving in heavy city traffic. It is
easy to relax your attention…and suddenly come
upon a dangerous surprise. Animals in the road,
farm equipment moving from one field to another,
horse drawn vehicles just over the crest of a hill, or
a low spot covered with water are not unusual
hazards in rural driving.
This Danger Zone is the area on all sides of the
bus where children are in the most danger of being Stay alert, watch for warning signs, and slow down
hit. Children should stay ten feet away from the when approaching curves or hills that block your
school bus and NEVER go behind the bus. view of the roadway ahead. The “slow moving
vehicle” emblem, a fluorescent or reflective orange
In many our school systems, children are taught to triangle, must be displayed on the rear of vehicles
escape that zone by taking five giant steps as drawn by animals, and most farm vehicles and
soon as they exit the bus. If they must cross the construction equipment.
street after exiting the bus, they are taught to cross
at least five giant steps in front of the bus-and to
be sure they’re able to be seen by the school bus
driver and can maintain eye contact with the driver.

Perhaps the most difficult thing to teach children,

especially your children, is not to go back to pick
up items they’ve dropped near the bus, or left on
the bus.

Parents and other adults must also do their EXAMPLE OF SLOW MOVING VEHICLE EMBLEM
part. For instance, most drivers need to learn
to share the road with school buses and stop
when the bus stops to take on or let off Farm Machinery: Watch for tractors, combines,
passengers. If we all do our part- if drivers heed and other farm equipment moving across the road
school bus warning lights, bus drivers drive and traveling on state highways in rural areas in
defensively, parents help their children learn to Tennessee. This type equipment can be very large
ride safely and children learn to avoid the bus’ and wide enough to take up more than one traffic
danger zone- it can be safer still to ride to and from lane. Farm machinery usually does not have turn
school in that yellow bus. signals and to make a right turn, operators of farm
machinery may first pull wide to the left, then turn
to the right. In most cases, these vehicles will be
traveling at less than 25 M.P.H. Coming over the
Section 14 – Sharing the Road Safely Page 14-12
2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

top of a hill at 55 M.P.H. to find a large slow- Lane Usage

moving tractor in front of you is a frightening and
dangerous experience. Expect the unexpected and Slower traffic must drive in the right-hand lane. The
be prepared to protect yourself and your left lane is for passing and turning. Slow-moving
passengers. vehicles may be wider than the lane width. It may
be necessary for these wide vehicles to temporarily
Horse Drawn Carriages: In some areas of move into an adjoining lane to avoid roadside
Tennessee you may be sharing the road with obstructions.
animal-drawn vehicles. They have the same rights
to use the road as a motor vehicle and must follow
SHARING THE ROAD WITH HIGHWAY
the same rules of the road. They are subject to
heavy damage and injury to the occupants if hit by WORK ZONES
a vehicle.
Work Zone Safety: It’s Everybody’s Business
Warning signs are normally posted in areas where
you are likely to find animal-drawn vehicles. Be Work zones on U.S. highways have become
Alert! increasingly dangerous places for both workers
and travelers, with the death rate approaching two
Horseback Riders: Horseback riders are subject per day. Approximately 40,000 people per year are
to, and protected by, the rules of the road. They injured as a result of crashes in work zones. With
also must ride single file near the right curb or road more than 70,000 work zones in place across
edge, or on a usable right shoulder, lane or path. America on a given day, highway agencies are
The law requires you to exercise due care when realizing that it is not enough to focus on improving
approaching a horse being ridden or led along a the devices used in the work zone areas, but that
road. Areas where horseback riding is common will they must also reach out to the public in order to
usually be marked with an advisory sign. You change the behavior of drivers so that crashes can
must drive at a reasonable speed, and at a be prevented.
reasonable distance away from the horse. Do NOT
sound your horn or “rev” your engine loudly when What is a Work Zone? A work zone is any type of
approaching or passing a horse. road work that may impede traffic conditions. Many
work zones involve lane closures. They may also
be on the shoulder or in the median. Moving work
Closing Speeds zones such as sweepers, line painting trucks, or
mowing equipment and workers are also quite
Normal speeds for slow-moving vehicles may common.
range from 5 to 20 mph. When a vehicle traveling
at normal highway speed approaches a slow- Highway work zones are set up according to the
moving vehicle from the rear, the speed deferential type of road and the work to be done on the road.
will dramatically shorten the time it takes to reach There are a number of events that make up a work
the slow-moving vehicle. zone. They can be long-term projects of short term
actions. A work zone can also exist at anytime of
Turns and Passing the year. The common theme among work zones
is the color orange. Work zone materials such as
Slow-moving vehicles may make wide turns and cones, barrels, signs, large vehicles, or orange
may turn right or left at any time into unmarked vests on workers give you an indication that you
entrances. When approaching from the rear, stay a are either approaching a work zone or are already
safe distance behind the vehicle until it is safe to in a work zone. In these work zones, workers will
pass, then be certain the driver has seen you and normally be wearing bright yellow-green apparel
is aware of your intent to pass before you begin. such as shirts, vests or hardhats to ensure they are
highly visible.
When lights are required for these slow moving
What do you do when approaching a Work Zone?
vehicles, a self-luminous red or amber lamp on the
Watch for the color orange – it always means:
rear of the vehicle is normally visible for 500 feet to
“road work—slow down”. All temporary signs in
the rear. Other devices to identify slow-moving
work zones have an orange background and black
vehicles may include slow moving emblem
letters or symbols. These signs will be found on the
reflectors, as well as rotating or oscillating red or
right side of the road, or on both left and right sides
amber lights. You may see this on slow-moving
when the roadway is a divided highway, and they
vehicles such as farm tractors, machinery,
will tell you what (one lane traffic, uneven lanes,
construction equipment or horse-drawn vehicles.
etc.) and how soon (miles or feet ahead) you will
Section 14 – Sharing the Road Safely Page 14-13
2011 Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual

encounter the work zone. Most work zones also their signals, and don't change lanes within the
have signs alerting you to reductions in the speed work zone unless instructed to do so.
limit through the work zone.
Expect the unexpected! Avoid complacency. Work
These speed reductions are necessary for the zones change constantly. Don’t become oblivious
safety of the workers and motorists. The reduced to work zone signs when the work is long term or
speed limits are clearly posted within the work widespread.
zone and if there are no reduced speed limit
postings, drivers should obey the normal posted Use extreme caution when driving through a work
speed limit. Under Tennessee law, speed zone at night whether workers are present or not.
violations that occur in the work zones where the
speed has been reduced and where employees of Calm down. Work zones aren’t there to personally
the Department of Transportation as well as other inconvenience you. They’re there to improve the
construction workers are present, will result in a roads for everyone and improve your future ride.
fine up to a maximum of $500 dollars. What should
you do when driving through Work Zones?
Watch the traffic around you, and be prepared to
Signing, traffic control devices, roadway markings,
react to what the traffic is doing. Check the
flaggers, and law enforcement officers are used to
taillights/brake lights of vehicles ahead of you for
protect highway workers and to direct drivers
indications of what is happening on the road
safely through work zones or along carefully
ahead. Be ready to respond quickly.
marked detours. As a driver you should learn and
abide by the following safety tips for driving in work
Adjust you lane position away from the side
zones:
workers and equipment when possible.

Slow down and pay full attention to the driving

Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and
situation! Drive within the posted speed limits,
traffic barriers, trucks, construction equipment and
which are usually reduced in work zones. If you
workers. Don’t tailgate! Most work zone accidents
don’t, you’ll pay the price.
are caused by rear-end collisions.
Obey the posted speed limits which are usually
Some work zones – like line painting, road
reduced in work zones. Workers could be present
patching and mowing – are mobile. Just because
just a few feet away. If you don’t, you’ll pay the
you don’t see the workers immediately after you
price.
see the warning signs doesn’t mean they’re not out
there. Observe the posted signs until you see the
Merge as soon as possible. Motorists can help on that says “End Road Work”.
maintain traffic flow and posted speeds by moving
to the appropriate lane at first notice of an Expect delays; plan for them and leave early to
approaching work zone. You can be ticketed and reach your destination on time.
the cause of an accident for being a last chance Avoid road work zones altogether by using
merger. alternate routes, when you can.

Use total concentration when driving through work

zones. Pay attention to your surroundings. This is
not the time to use the cellular phone, look for a
new CD, change the radio station, read the paper,
apply make-up, shave, eat or drink or fill out the
expense report.

Keep your ears open! Do not wear earphones

while driving.

Turn your lights on before you enter the zone! Turn

on your vehicle’s headlights to become more
visible to workers and other motorists.

Follow the instructions on the road work zone

warning signs and those given by flaggers. Follow

Section 14 – Sharing the Road Safely Page 14-14

 PLEASE RETURN THIS
HANDBOOK TO ANY
TENNESSEE DRIVER
LICENSE STATION

The purpose of this handbook is to give you a general understanding

of the safe and lawful operation of a motor vehicle. Alone it will not
teach you how to drive. Mastering these skills can only be achieved
with a good instructor and plenty of practice. The handbook will
inform you of many things you can do to have a safe experience on
Tennessee's highways.

Also included in this handbook is important information you must

know to pass Commercial Driver License knowledge tests. It does not
give a complete statement of all Tennessee traffic laws and may not
cover the most recent changes. For a current update, you should
review Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 55, and Federal Motor Carrier
Safety Regulations.

Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security,

Authorization No. 349310, 40,000 copies, August 2014.
This public document was promulgated at a cost of $.86 per copy.