Colorado CDL Practice Test

Which is a safe practice when driving downhill?

1. Accelerating to gain speed

2. Using a speed that considers the load and road conditions

3. Maintaining the speed limit regardless of conditions

4. Increasing speed as the road grades steeply

The correct answer is: Using a speed that considers the load and road conditions

Using a speed that considers the load and road conditions is a safe practice when driving downhill because it takes into account the additional factors that affect braking and control on a slope. When driving downhill, the weight of the load can significantly increase the vehicle's momentum, making it more likely to gain speed quickly. Adjusting your speed based on the load and the specific conditions of the road—such as steepness, surface type, weather, and visibility—ensures that you maintain better control of the vehicle. A controlled speed allows for safer braking distances and helps in responding effectively to any hazards that might arise. This practice not only promotes safety for the driver but also for others on the road. Other options, such as accelerating to gain speed or increasing speed as the road grades steeply, could lead to loss of control and braking difficulties, especially when handling a heavy load. Maintaining the speed limit without considering the road conditions may not be safe either, as it ignores crucial changes in dynamics that can occur when descending a hill. Hence, the focus should always be on adjusting speed to reflect the unique challenges posed by downhill driving.