Drivers who utilize commercial vehicles must understand the specific skills and safety precautions that come with operating them. The on-road driving portion of a commercial driving exam assesses the driver’s ability to handle real-world situations that may occur while driving. This is to ensure that the driver, as well as other individuals, are kept safe and free of unnecessary harm behind the wheel.
What the On-Road Driving Exam Evaluates
During the on-road driving assessment, the examiner will be scoring the driver on specific driving techniques. Drivers will be tested on the following skills during an on-road driving examination.
- Turns
- Intersections
- Traffic checks
- Safe following distances
- Lane changes
- Approaching a curve
- Crossing a railroad
General driving behaviors may include:
- Clutch, gear, brake, and lane usage
- Steering
- Regular traffic checks
- Use of turn signals
In addition, it is also important to understand that, unlike controlled environments, public roads present unpredictable variables such as other drivers, pedestrians, road construction, and weather changes.
The Importance of Awareness Behind the Wheel
Drivers must maintain a sense of alertness and awareness behind the wheel. Safe driving practices can help decrease the chance of serious vehicle collisions, causing severe or long-term injuries. Situational awareness is important to making sure you are maintaining a safe stopping distance and reducing the risk of being distracted while on the road. Drivers are generally expected to:
- Continuously scan the road ahead and the surrounding areas
- Monitor mirrors frequently to stay aware of blind spots
- Anticipate potential hazards, such as sudden stops or merging vehicles
- Adjust driving behavior based on traffic patterns
Drivers who become easily distracted can be involved in vehicle collisions, causing harm to themselves and to others on the road.
Proper Turning Techniques
Understanding the proper turning techniques is crucial to maintaining the safety of yourself and others. Due to the size of commercial vehicles, turning off requires careful planning and execution. Drivers are expected to signal appropriately, check mirrors and blind spots, and complete turns smoothly without infringing on other lanes.
Navigating Intersections Safely
Intersections are typical locations for accidents, making them a key focus during on-road driving evaluation. Drivers must approach intersections cautiously, even when they have the right of way. Safe practices may include, but are not limited to, the following.
- Reducing speed when approaching intersections
- Checking for cross traffic and pedestrians
- Being prepared to stop if conditions change suddenly
- Avoid aggressive acceleration when proceeding
Managing Speed and Following Distance
Drivers are expected to maintain a safe driving speed and a following distance between themselves and other vehicles on the road. Commercial vehicles often require more time and distance to make a complete stop, especially when carrying heavy loads. Drivers are usually expected to:
- Maintain a safe following distance
- Adjust speed based on traffic, weather, and road conditions
- Avoid sudden braking or rapid acceleration
- Stay within posted speed limits while considering vehicle limitations
Handling Road Grades and Curves
Driving on hills and curves requires additional skill and attention. It is important to be aware of the safe driving practices that come with driving on curvy roads to ensure the safety of everyone involved. When navigating these conditions, drivers may:
- Use lower gears when descending steep grades
- Reduce speed before entering curves
- Avoid sudden steering movements
- Maintain steady control of the vehicle
Lane Management and Positioning
Proper lane usage is essential for maintaining safe traffic flow. Commercial drivers must be mindful of lane positioning to avoid drifting, encroaching on other lanes, or creating confusion for nearby drivers. Drivers should consider the following.
- Staying centered within the lane
- Using turn signals well in advance of lane changes
- Checking mirrors and blind spots before merging
- Avoiding unnecessary lane changes in heavy traffic
Communication on the Road
Effective communication includes using turn signals consistently, applying brake lights gradually, and using the horn on the vehicle when necessary to alert other drivers. Communication between drivers is important to decrease vehicle collisions and reduce the risk of serious injuries from occurring.
Adapting to Traffic Conditions
Drivers are expected to adapt to traffic conditions while operating commercial vehicles. This may include:
- Slowing down in congested traffic
- Allowing extra space in heavy flow
- Being patient with slower-moving vehicles
- Avoiding aggressive or reactive driving behaviors
Legal Awareness and Responsibility
Understanding your case and seeking legal guidance can help minimize the stress victims feel during the aftermath of a vehicle collision. A legal professional can help you understand the severity of your injuries and the necessary steps to take to work toward recovery. Victims should consider seeking support from a professional to decrease future harm and allow them to focus on recovering from their injuries.
How KAASS LAW Can Help
The team at KAASS LAW understands the challenges victims may face when suffering injuries from accidents involving commercial vehicles. Our experienced personal injury attorneys can help evaluate your case, speak to insurance companies, and determine potentially liable parties. Call KAASS LAW today to discuss your potential options.