2024 Facts for Drivers
What is "outage" and why is it important?
"outage" is the volume of the tank which is not filled when the tank is loaded. It is important in order to prevent spillage and tank rupture
A driver can be disqualified for 60 days for a conviction of any combination of two of the following serious violations in 3 years, or for 120 days if convicted of three of the following in 3 years:
1. Speeding 15 mph or more in excess of the posted limit 2. Following too closely 3. Improper or erratic lane changing 4. Driving recklessly 5. Violating State or locally related to motor vehicle traffic control resulting in a fatal crash 6.Driving a CMV without obtaining a CLP or CDL 7. Driving a CMV without a CLP or CDL in the driver's possession 8. Driving a CMV without the proper class of CLP or CDL and/or endorsements for the specific vehicle group being operated 9. Violationg a State or local law prohibiting texting and/or handheld mobile phone, while operating a CMV
When must drivers surrender their hazardous materials endorsements?
1. an alien (unless a lawful permanent resident) 2. an individual who has renounced their U.S. citizenship 3. convicted in military or civilian court 4. found mentally defective or committed to a mental institution 5. wanted or under indictment for certain felonies 6. individual who is considered to pose a security threat based on a review of various databases
What additional items must be inspected by the driver of a "twin-trailer" or "triples" combination?
1. the eye of the draw bar is properly secured within the pintle hook 2. the safety device required for use in case of accidental disconnection of the draw bar are properly positioned and secured 3. the hook up of the converter unit(dolly) to the following semi-trailer(s) is secure 4. if the trailer is equipped with landing gear to prevent nose-over, be sure that the device is fully raised and secured (driver should check the front of each trailer)
When may the four-way flashers be in operation on a moving vehicle?
Federal regulations permit the driver of a slow moving vehicle to use the four-way flashers to warn of a potential hazard if such use is permitted by state or local regulations
What are the four primary purposes of first aid training?
First aid is useful in: 1. Preventing and caring for accidental injury or sudden illness 2. Caring for persons caught in a natural disaster 3. Equipping individuals with the information to deal with whole situation, the person, the injury or the illness 4. Distinguishing between what to do and what not to do
What restrictions are prescribed in the FMCSRs on front-facing red lights on an interstate truck or combination?
Front-facing red lights are prohibited except for emergency or service vehicles which are authorized by state laws to have such lights. The restriction does not apply to the rear-facing lens of a front mounted double-faced turn signal
What is the purpose of "fusible links"?
Fusible links or elements are heat activated devices installed in the cable lines, or tubing of tank trailers. They are designed to melt at a temperature no greater than 121*C (250*F) in case of fire and when melted, trigger the internal valves to close automatically
What should you do before attempting to give first aid to a person who is conscious?
Get the victims permission
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations, what is meant by "on-duty time'?
On Duty time means all time from the time a driver begins to work or is required to be in readiness to work until the time the driver is relieved from work and all responsibility for performing work. All common sense answers that show you On Duty
Under what circumstances may a driver take drugs when on duty?
Only when such drugs are being taken under the direction of a physician and the driver has been advised that they will adversely affect the driver's ability
What are the most common methods of administering artificial respiration?
The two most common methods of administering artificial respiration are by mouth-to-mouth or mouth to nose
What are the signs of drowsiness?
There are several indicators of drowsiness. A person's eyes close involuntarily, their head nods, or they yawn repeatedly. Common sense answers
When should a tourniquet be used?
Tourniquet should be used only for severe life-threatening hemorrhages that cannot be controlled by other means
What rear-facing lights on an interstate truck might not be red?
Turn signals may be red or amber
What do the FMCSRs require before a person can resume driving a commercial vehicle after the first regulation violation involving alcohol or drug misuse/use?
Before a CDL driver can resume driving a CMV after their first DOT alcohol or drug violation, the driver must be evaluated by a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) and comply with the recommended treatment. Driver must then pass a return to duty test with a negative result
How can the driver measure the proper distance for setting out the emergency warning signals?
By pacing off the distances. One pace equals roughly 2 1/2 feet; thus, 10 feet equals 4 paces; 100 feet equals 40 paces; 200 feet = 80 paces; 500 feet = 200 paces
What papers must the interstate driver have in their possession when on duty?
CDL, current logs for the day plus previous seven days. Documents for hazardous materials if being transported, must have reviewed and signed the report if defects were noted and repaired. Kept on file for 90 days. MEDCard
What are the basic objectives in the first aid care of a wound?
Control bleeding, protect the wound from contamination, and treat for shock while remembering to protect themselves from blood borne diseases
Can a unit equipped with a retarder be safely driven down a long grade at a higher speed than a unit without a retarder?
Definitely not.
What happens if a driver is convicted of operating a commercial vehicle with a BAC level of 0.04 or higher?
Driver is subject to disqualification which may range from a one year to lifetime disqualification
What is the driver's responsibility to the employer if their driving privileges are suspended?
Driver must notify the carrier that the driver's driving privileges are suspended, canceled, or revoked by the next business day following receipt of the notice of suspension, cancellation, or revocation.
What are the principal precautions that must be taken around a loading track?
Driver should make sure that: 1. Engine is off 2. secured against movement 3. no smoking or open flames or lights 4. electronic devices, such as cell phones, CB radios, and navigation systems are turned off
How does a driver attempt to recover from a skid?
Driver should release the brakes and regain control by steering. Driver should steer in the direction that the rear of the vehicle is sliding, in order to bring the vehicle back to a straight line of travel. Avoid acceleration
What is the purpose of a nitrogen blanket in a trailer?
Applying a cover of nitrogen gas over the surface of a flammable or combustible product is ideal for pressure-unloading flammable or combustible materials, especially those with a low flash point. Also to prevent product contamination from air or moisture
What protection is there for a CDL driver in the drug testing program?
Driver who test "positive" on an initial test is entitled to a confirmation test using a more sophisticated procedure. If the confirmation test is "positive" the results must be reviewed by a Medical Review Officer to determine whether the findings have a legitimate basis, such as prescription drug use, or are due to illegal use of a controlled substance
What emergency equipment is required by FMCSA regulations?
1 fire extinguisher, 1 set of prescribed emergency warning devices for stopped vehicles; and, one spare fuse for each type on the vehicle (unless the vehicle is equipped with circuit breakers). See 393.95
What steps can be taken to minimize the risk of disease transmission during first aid?
1. Avoid contact with bodily fluids when possible 2. Place barriers such as disposable gloves or a clean dry cloth between that patients body fluids and yourself 3. Wear protective clothing to cover any cuts, scrapes or skin conditions that you may have 4. Wash your hands with soap and water ASAP before and after giving care 5. Do not eat, drink or touch your mouth, nose or eyes when giving first aid 6. Do not touch objects that may be soiled with blood
The "Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices" specifies certain basic shapes for all types of traffic signs. What are the shapes specified and what do they mean?
1. Octagonal- used only for stop signs 2. Rectangular- posting information or regulations 3. Diamond- Warn of danger 4. Triangular- drivers facing it should yield the right of way 5. Round- Used as the advance warning of a railroad crossing 6. Crossbuck- used at the crossing of railroad tracks and the highway
May the interstate driver be dispatched while ill or fatigued?
No
To what extent do the FMCSRs prohibit the use of alcoholic beverages by driver's?
No consumption on duty and not within 4 hours of going on duty. Blood alcohol content (BAC) level of 0.02 or greater but less than 0.04, the driver is placed "out of service" for 24 hours
What other types of violations can result in driver disqualification?
A driver can be disqualified for one year if convicted of one of the following violations 1. DUI of alcohol and/or controlled substance 2. Driving while having an alcohol concentration of 0.04 or more 3. Refusal to undergo an alcohol test 4. Leaving the scene of an accident 5. Commission of a felony involving use of a commercial vehicle 6. Driving a CMV when the CLP or CDL is revoked 7. causing a fatality through the negligent operation of a CMV 8. using a vehicle in the commission of a felony involving an act or practice of severe forms of human trafficking, manufacturing, distributing, or dispensing
What other factors must be taken into consideration when operating a vehicle?
A driver should always take into consideration: 1. Condition of vehicle 2. Types of roads and road conditions 3. Light and weather conditions 4. The driver's own mental and physical condition
What is the purpose of an anti-lock braking system?
ABS is intended to reduce the likelihood of wheel lock-up, especially on slippery pavement, and reduce the risk of losing control of the vehicle if the brakes are applied too hard for conditions. ABS takes advantage of the fact that maximum braking at any wheel occurs just before the wheel starts to lock-up and slide.
What parts of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations must the driver have knowledge of?
Although a commercial vehicle driver does not have to be equally familiar with all parts, the driver must have a working knowledge of: 1. Part 382, Controlled Substances and Alcohol, Use and Testing; 2. Part 383, CDL Standards; Requirements and Penalties; 3. Part 391, Qualifications of Drivers; 4. Part 392, Driving Rules 5. Part 393, Parts and Accessories Necessary for Safe Operation 6. Part 395, Hours of Service 7. Part 396, Inspection and Maintenance 8. Part 397 (if hauling hazardous materials)
What is required with respect to "bonding" tank trucks?
An electrical bond wire be used during the filling/loading of a tank truck because the bond wire effectively grounds the vehicle during filling to prevent the build-up of static charges
What is the difference between a closed and open fracture?
An open fracture is a breaking a bone with a wound, extending from the break through the surface of the skin. There's no such wound associated with a close fracture.
What should the driver do if a front tire fails suddenly?
If a front tire fails, the driver should accelerate to stabilize the vehicles front end, and reduce speed gradually.
What are the general directions for first aid treatment for shock?
If a patient is in shock, maintain the patients body heat and elevate the persons feet about 8 inches, if raising legs will cause pain or further injury, keep the person flat
What happens to the CDL driver whose illegal use of controlled substances is confirmed?
If illegal use of a controlled substance is detected during a routine test, the driver is considered unqualified and must be referred to a SAP for evaluation and possible treatment
What is the FMCSA safety regulation concerning the transportation of hitchhikers or passengers on property-carrying vehicles?
No person, other than the motor carrier's employee assigned to the vehicle, shall be transported in any vehicle that is not designed or adapted to transport passengers, unless specifically authorized in writing by the motor carrier
At what point may further evaluation of a driver's blood pressure be necessary?
If the driver's blood pressure remains consistently above 140/90, further evaluation of that driver's blood pressure may be necessary
What are the special requirements of the FMCSRs for marking loads that project beyond the side or rear of a motor vehicle?
If the load is more than 4 inches wider than the vehicle (projects more than 4 inches beyond the side of the vehicle), the front projection must be marked with an amber lamp visible from the front and side, and the rear projection must be marked with a red lamp visible from the rear and side. A load extending 4 feet or more beyond the rear of a vehicle must be marked with a red lamp. In daylight, a red flag is required at each point where a light is required
What is required if a small part of the load projects beyond the side?
If the side projection is 3 feet long or less, it may be marked with a single lamp. If projection is near the front of the vehicle the lamp must be amber. If the projection is near the rear, the lamp must be red
What is the first step a driver should take when the driver's vehicle is stopped on the highway or shoulder for any cause other than traffic stops?
Immediately activate the vehicle's four-way flashers
What is the "remote control" on a cargo tank?
It is a secondary control to close the internal valves
Next to compliance, what is the driver's most important responsibility with respect to the hours-of-service regulations?
It is vitally important that the driver get rest during their off-duty period regardless of the time of day
If a roadside inspector determines the a driver is in violation of the driving or on-duty limitations, what can the inspector do?
The inspector can place the driver in an " out of service" status until such time as the driver is again in compliance with regulations
What are the advantages of mouse and mouth or mouth to nose, artificial respiration?
Mouth-to-mouth and mouth nose, artificial respiration provide oxygen to inflate the patient's lungs, and also enables the first aid provider to look listen and feel the air is being moved in and out of the patient's lungs
What is the danger associated with nitrogen blankets?
Nitrogen displaces oxygen, cannot be seen or smelled and only detected by testing
What is the risk of disease transmission while administering first aid?
Potential risk of disease transmission but no known cases involving first aid treatment
What type of product hazard classes must be grounded while loading and unloading?
Products considered to be flammable or combustible
What basic principles should be remembered when administering first aid?
Remember to: 1. Not move the patient unless necessary 2. Avoid or overcome chilling by using blankets or covers, if available 3. Determine, if possible, the injury or causes of illness 4. Examine the patient carefully and methodically; have a reason for what you do 5. Loosen constricting clothing, as appropriate and necessary 6. Note the patient's general appearance; check their pulse 7. If patient is unconscious, look for evidence of head injury
What types of FMCSA drug and alcohol tests is a driver subject to?
Required drug and alcohol tests include post-accident, random, reasonable suspicion, follow up, and return to duty. A pre-employment test is required for drug use only
Internal valves on cargo tanks are used for what purpose?
Self-closing shut off valves used in normal unloading operations and are designed and operated to close automatically to prevent the accidental release of product
How do most serious infections and cases of blood poisoning start?
Serious infection and blood poisoning most often start from very small wounds, particularly on hands and feet
What are the signs of internal bleeding?
Signs are: 1. Tender, bruised or hard areas of the body such as the abdomen 2. Rapid, weak pulse 3. Skin is cool, moist, pale or bluish 4. Excessive thirst 5. Becoming confused, faint, drowsy or unconscious
Why should bandages be examined frequently after application?
Swelling usually follows an injury, and the bandage, which was just right when applied may become too tight later on cutting off the blood supply
What should drivers report when observing terrorist activity?
TRUCKS 1. Time of Observation/ID of Vehicle Involved 2. Route of Destination- report route numbers, mile markers, directions, landmarks 3. Unusual Activity- describe what you are observing, what did not look right, description of persons involved 4. Communicate- speak calmly and clearly and respond to questions from the 911 operator or company dispatcher 5. Keep the activity under observation, stay out of harms way 6. Safety First- avoid becoming a target
What do the markings V, I, P, L, K, and T stand for?
Test performed on a cargo tank V- Visual test I- Internal Visual test P- Pressure test L- Lining test K- Leakage test T- Thickness test
What are the 3 license classes designated by the federal standards?
The federal standard requires that states issue a CDL to drivers according to these license classifications: 1. Class A- Any combination of vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 or more pounds provided the GVWR of the viewless being towed is in excess of 10,001 pounds 2. Class B- Any single vehicle with GVWR of 26,001 or more pounds, or any such vehicle towing a vehicle not in excess of 10,000 pounds GVWR. 3. Class C- Any single vehicle, or combination of vehicles, that does not meet the definition of Class A or Class B, but is either designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, or is transporting material that has been designated as a hazardous under 49 U.S.C. 5103 and is required to be placarded under subpart F of 49 CFR Part 172 or is transporting any quantity of a material listed as a select agent or toxin in 42 CFR Part 73
According to FMCSA, how may a motor carrier keep informed of each driver's driving performance?
The motor carrier must consider any information it receives relative to a driver's actions, such as road observation reports, letters from customers or the public, records of disciplinary action, accidents, etc. The carrier must also request a copy of each driver's motor vehicle record from the state of issuance annually
What miscellaneous parts and accessories are required on all interstate vehicles by FMCSA safety regulations?
Windshield wiping and washing systems, defroster device, rear vision mirrors, speedometer, and horn
Is a professional driver disqualified following a conviction for driving while intoxicated if the violation occurred in the driver's personal car?
Yes
May a motor vehicle require a more rigid physical examination than what is required by FMCSA safety regulations?
Yes
Is the loss of 2 pints of blood at one time serious or possibly fatal?
Yes.
What are the qualities of a professional truck driver?
a professional driver is one who: 1. is physically, mentally, and emotionally in control on the job 2. Is well-informed about the driver's motor vehicle, the highway and traffic laws 3. Has a sound grasp of safe driving techniques 4. Has sufficient experience to have formed good driving habits and skills 5. Is conscientious, compliant, courteous and puts safety first
May the tractor engine be kept running while loading or unloading a tank truck?
a tractor engine may only be kept running during the loading or unloading of a tank truck if the engine is required to run a pump
When is a driver subject to post-accident drug or alcohol testing?
after any crash resulting in a fatality, injury or towaway crash
What are the consequences of inadvertently overfilling a storage tank?
it will vary with the nature of the product, and could care a fire. Also will result in loss of product and environmental damage
Why are cargo tanks equipped with "overturn protection"?
protects the cargo tanks valves and manhole covers from damage in the event of overturn so as to minimize or totally prevent cargo loss
What is a "shear section" on a flammable liquid tank truck?
specially machined section of the outlet piping. It has a slight groove cut in the pipe within 4 inches of the tank shell. Its purpose is to ensure that, in the event of damage to the piping in a collision, the pipe will break at the shear section which is outside the tank shell
What should drivers do when they become drowsy while on the road?
stop in a safe place and take a nap or walk around. nap with the window down if in a safe area
