Handling Emergencies

Study questions with answers

7 sample Handling Emergencies questions with the correct answer, a short explanation, and the official handbook reference. Read through them, then take the quiz above.

1. 1. In a vehicle without ABS, what happens when the steering-axle wheels lock up during hard braking?

   Correct answer: You lose steering control

   Without ABS, hard braking on slippery surfaces can lock the wheels; when the steering wheels lock you lose the ability to steer, and other locked wheels can cause a skid, jackknife, or spin.

   Source: Section 5.4.2 - Braking with Antilock Brakes

2. 2. What is the main cause of brake fade?

   Correct answer: Excessive heat from overusing the service brakes

   Brakes fade when they overheat from being used too much instead of relying on engine braking; the heat changes the lining chemically and expands the drums.

   Source: Section 5.4.5 - Brake Fading or Failure

3. 3. How does excessive heat produce brake fade in a drum brake?

   Correct answer: It makes the drums expand so the shoes travel farther and press with less force

   Overheating both reduces the lining's friction and expands the drums; as the drums grow, the shoes and linings must reach farther to touch them, and they press with less force.

   Source: Section 5.4.5 - Brake Fading or Failure

4. 4. How is the 'controlled braking' method performed during an emergency stop?

   Correct answer: Brake as hard as possible without letting the wheels lock

   With controlled braking you brake as hard as you can while keeping the wheels from locking and steering only slightly; if a wheel locks or you must steer more, release and reapply.

   Source: Section 5.4.3 - Emergency Stops

5. 5. Which sequence describes the 'stab braking' method?

   Correct answer: Apply the brakes fully, release when the wheels lock, then reapply fully once they roll again

   Stab braking means pressing the brakes all the way, releasing when the wheels lock, and applying them fully again as soon as the wheels start rolling.

   Source: Section 5.4.3 - Emergency Stops

6. 6. When someone suddenly pulls out in front of you, how should you brake?

   Correct answer: So the vehicle stays straight and you can still steer if needed

   The right response is to brake so the vehicle stays in a straight line and you can still turn if it becomes necessary, using either controlled or stab braking.

   Source: Section 5.4.3 - Emergency Stops

7. 7. During stab braking, how long can it take for the wheels to start rolling again after you release the brakes?

   Correct answer: Up to one second

   It can take as long as a second for the wheels to begin turning after you let off the brakes; reapplying before they roll keeps the vehicle from straightening out.

   Source: Section 5.4.3 - Emergency Stops