When backing up to couple a trailer, you should position the tractor directly in front of the trailer. Trying to couple while backing at an angle could cause the trailer to move and the landing gear to break.

Driving while fatigued can be extremely dangerous. Strategies for preventing drowsiness while driving include getting a full night's sleep before a trip; having someone ride with you so you can take turns driving; scheduling trips for times during which you are normally awake; and avoiding medications that may cause drowsiness.

A vehicle inspection report allows a driver to inform the motor carrier of issues that could affect the safe operation of a vehicle. If required, the driver should fill out a vehicle inspection report after every day of driving. They should make note of any issues that could affect the safety of the vehicle or that could lead to a mechanical breakdown.

Steering wheel play of more than 10 degrees (about two inches of movement at the rim of a 20-inch steering wheel) can make it difficult to steer.

Railroad crossings that are not controlled by any type of traffic control device are known as passive crossings. The decision to proceed across tracks at a passive crossing is entirely up to the driver.

Large combination vehicles take longer to stop when they are empty than when they are loaded. The decreased weight causes a vehicle's wheels to have decreased traction on the surface of the road.

For the first step of a vehicle inspection, you should review the last inspection report on your vehicle, if there is one. The carrier should have repaired any problems noted on the report.

In the event of a leak in a cargo of hazardous materials, do not continue to drive any longer than is necessary for safety. Continuing to drive would result in a larger area becoming contaminated. Instead, park the vehicle, secure the area, stay with the vehicle, and send someone to get help.

Be sure to inspect your vehicle before driving. Never drive a tank vehicle with open valves or manhole covers.

Some tanks are divided into multiple smaller tanks by bulkheads. When loading or unloading such tanks, pay attention to weight distribution. Be careful not to place too much weight on a single end of the tank.

If an emergency vehicle with its lights on is stopped on the side of the road, move over laws require drivers to vacate the lane directly next to the vehicle, if possible. If a driver cannot move over safely, they must slow down and proceed with caution.

It is illegal to transport liquids or gases in a tank vehicle that contains a leak. If you notice a leak in a tank vehicle that you are operating, get the leak fixed immediately.

Flammable gases are assigned to hazardous materials Class 2.

Retarders are mechanisms in some vehicles that help slow a vehicle and reduce the need for braking. However, using a retarder may cause wheels to skid when they have poor traction. Turn off retarders when traveling under wet, snowy, or icy conditions.

Exhaust system defects can be extremely serious because they may make it possible for poisonous fumes to enter into the cab or sleeper berth. Issues to check for in a pre-trip inspection include loose, broken, or missing exhaust pipes, mufflers, tailpipes, vertical stacks, mounting brackets, clamps, bolts, or nuts; exhaust system parts that are rubbing against fuel system parts, tires, or other moving parts of the vehicle; and exhaust system parts that are leaking.

Backing can be dangerous, so avoid doing it whenever you can. If possible, park in such a way that allows you to pull forward to exit your parking space.

Hazardous materials placards must be positioned so any words or numbers can be read from left to right. They must be at least three inches away from any other markings.

Operators driving too fast is a major cause of fatal crashes. You must continually adjust your speed to a rate that is safe for road and traffic conditions.

Always change lanes slowly and smoothly. If you did not see drivers who are already using the lane you wish to occupy, this will give them a chance to get out of your way or honk their horns to alert you. Always signal before changing lanes.

Baffled tanks contain bulkheads with holes to help control the movement of liquid cargo. These bulkheads lower the risk of front-to-back surge, though side-to-side surge may still occur.