Sharing the Road

Study questions with answers

12 sample Sharing the Road questions with the correct answer, a short explanation, and the official handbook reference. Read through them, then take the quiz above.

1. 1. Why can strong crosswinds be especially difficult when leaving a tunnel?

   Correct answer: Wind can suddenly push you out of your lane

   Strong winds make it hard to stay in your lane and the problem is often worst coming out of a tunnel, especially for lighter vehicles.

   Source: Utah CDL Manual — Section 2: Driving Safely (Strong Winds)

2. 2. When another driver's mistake angers you, what does the manual recommend?

   Correct answer: Give them the benefit of the doubt

   Assume the best about other drivers; whatever their reason for driving that way, it isn't about you, and that mindset keeps you calm.

   Source: Utah CDL Manual — Section 2: Driving Safely (Don't Be an Aggressive Driver)

3. 3. What is the safest response when a tailgater is following you too closely?

   Correct answer: Increase the space ahead of you

   Open up more space ahead so you avoid abrupt moves and give the tailgater a simpler chance to pass.

   Source: Utah CDL Manual — Section 2: Driving Safely (Space Behind)

4. 4. What extra caution do you owe a stopped bus you are approaching?

   Correct answer: Passengers may cross and cannot see you

   Use caution near a halted bus, since riders may step out ahead of or behind it and frequently can't see you.

   Source: Utah CDL Manual — Section 2: Driving Safely (Parked Vehicles)

5. 5. Why should you avoid traveling alongside another vehicle for long stretches?

   Correct answer: They could turn into you or trap you

   Driving beside others risks another driver turning into you or leaves you trapped with nowhere to go if you must change lanes.

   Source: Utah CDL Manual — Section 2: Driving Safely (Space to the Sides)

6. 6. What is a good practice when a heavy load slows you down going uphill?

   Correct answer: Stay in the right lane

   When a heavy load holds you back, keep to the right lane where possible, because slow rigs draw tailgaters.

   Source: Utah CDL Manual — Section 2: Driving Safely (Stay to the Right)

7. 7. Why are children considered a serious hazard near the roadway?

   Correct answer: They may act suddenly without checking traffic

   Kids often move suddenly without watching for traffic, and those at play together may run into the road without looking.

   Source: Utah CDL Manual — Section 2: Driving Safely (Children)

8. 8. When you approach a stopped emergency vehicle on the roadside under a move-over law, what should you do?

   Correct answer: Slow down and move over a lane if it is safe

   Slow down and, if it is safe, change into a lane not next to the emergency vehicle; if a lane change is unsafe, slow and proceed with caution.

   Source: Utah CDL Manual — Section 2: Driving Safely (Move-Over Laws)

9. 9. What is a good sign that a driver ahead may be impaired by alcohol, drugs, or drowsiness?

   Correct answer: Weaving or drifting across the road

   A driver who wanders across lanes or drifts side to side may be impaired, as may one who stops at odd moments or changes speed erratically.

   Source: Utah CDL Manual — Section 2: Driving Safely (Impaired Drivers)

10. 10. How should you treat a vehicle, pedestrian, or bicyclist you are about to pass?

    Correct answer: Assume they don't see you

    Assume they do not see you and could suddenly move into your path; when legal, tap the horn or flash your lights, and drive to avoid a crash regardless.

    Source: Utah CDL Manual — Section 2: Driving Safely (Communicating Your Presence)

11. 11. What is the first thing to do when confronted by an aggressive driver?

    Correct answer: Get out of their way

    Do all you can to let them pass; never challenge an aggressive driver by holding your lane or accelerating.

    Source: Utah CDL Manual — Section 2: Driving Safely (Confronted by an Aggressive Driver)

12. 12. Why should you not signal other drivers when it is safe for them to pass you?

    Correct answer: You could cause a crash and be blamed

    Do not direct traffic; if you wave someone on and a crash results, you could be blamed and held responsible for the outcome.

    Source: Utah CDL Manual — Section 2: Driving Safely (Don't Direct Traffic)