CDL Tanker Endorsement Practice Exam

To correct a drive-wheel braking skid, what should you do?

1. Ease off the accelerator and turn slightly

2. Stop braking, turn quickly, and counter-steer

3. Apply more brake pressure and steer hard

4. Shift to a lower gear and brake

The correct answer is: Stop braking, turn quickly, and counter-steer

To correct a drive-wheel braking skid, it is crucial to understand the dynamics of how vehicles respond when the drive wheels lose traction. When a skid occurs because of braking action, especially with drive wheels, the most effective response is to stop braking, turn quickly in the direction you want to go, and counter-steer. The reason for this approach lies in the principle of regaining control over the vehicle's direction. By stopping the braking action, you allow the wheels to regain traction, which is essential for steering. As you turn the steering wheel quickly in the direction of the skid, you are aligning the vehicle with the direction you want to travel, which helps to stabilize the vehicle. Counter-steering further helps to prevent the vehicle from spinning out, as it aids in redirecting the vehicle's path back onto a stable trajectory. Understanding the correct response in this situation is vital for safety in handling skids, particularly with tankers that can be heavier and have a higher center of gravity than standard vehicles. It's important to practice and remember these techniques to effectively maintain control in slippery conditions.