Texas CDL General Knowledge Practice Exam

What should you do if your vehicle experiences brake failure?

1. Shift to a lower gear, look for a safe place to stop, and apply the parking brake gradually

2. Apply the accelerator to regain control

3. Turn off the engine immediately

4. Use the emergency lights and drive slowly

The correct answer is: Shift to a lower gear, look for a safe place to stop, and apply the parking brake gradually

In the event of brake failure, the recommended action involves shifting to a lower gear, looking for a safe place to stop, and gradually applying the parking brake. This method helps in reducing speed without locking the wheels, which could cause the vehicle to skid. Shifting to a lower gear increases engine resistance, which can also help slow the vehicle down more effectively. Finding a safe place to stop is crucial as it helps to avoid potential hazards or collisions with other vehicles or objects. Gradually applying the parking brake allows for a controlled deceleration, providing the driver with better management of the situation rather than a sudden stop that could lead to loss of control. Other options, such as applying the accelerator, turning off the engine, or using emergency lights while driving, do not appropriately address the critical need to regain control of the vehicle safely. Engaging the accelerator in a brake failure scenario could exacerbate the situation, while turning off the engine can lead to loss of power steering and braking assistance. Using emergency lights does not directly contribute to stopping the vehicle and, in fact, would divert attention from handling the brake failure properly.