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Difficulty: MediumEvasive Steering and Avoiding Collisions

A commercial driver crests a rise at highway speed and discovers a disabled vehicle completely blocking the travel lane with insufficient distance to come to a complete stop. In what sequence should the driver execute the control and steering actions to safely navigate around the hazard and stabilize the commercial vehicle?

  1. 1Keep off the brake pedal while establishing a firm, two-handed grip on the steering wheel.
  2. 2Turn the steering wheel smoothly just enough to clear the disabled vehicle.
  3. 3Counter-steer in the opposite direction immediately as the vehicle clears the obstruction.
  4. 4Straighten the steering wheel to stabilize the vehicle within the clear path of travel.

Answer

The correct sequence begins with keeping off the brake while maintaining a firm grip, followed by steering just enough to clear the hazard, counter-steering immediately upon clearing the obstacle, and finally straightening the wheel to stabilize the vehicle.
According to official CDL emergency maneuvering standards, evasive steering is faster than stopping. The driver must first stay off the brake to prevent wheel lockup, steer only as much as necessary to bypass the hazard, immediately counter-steer once past the obstruction to catch vehicle momentum, and finally straighten the wheel to restore directional stability.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Ensure the service brake is released and maintain firm steering control.
The front steering tires maintain traction without locking up, preserving directional control.
Applying the brakes during sharp steering inputs causes wheel lockup, resulting in skidding and complete loss of directional steering.
2
Execute an initial steer only to the degree necessary to avoid the obstacle.
The vehicle diverts around the hazard with minimal lateral weight transfer.
Excessive turning increases the likelihood of a rollover or vehicle spinout.
3
Counter-steer into the opposite direction immediately as the vehicle clears the obstacle.
The vehicle's lateral momentum is arrested before it exits the roadway or enters oncoming traffic.
Commercial vehicles require prompt counter-steering to maintain lane tracking and balance after a rapid evasive turn.
4
Center and straighten the steering wheel.
The combination vehicle returns to a stable, straight heading in the clear lane.
Straightening the wheels settles the suspension and cargo, restoring normal vehicle control.

Key Concept

Proper execution and sequencing of emergency evasive steering maneuvers in commercial motor vehicles.
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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Topics

Evasive Steering and Avoiding Collisions

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