CDL Vehicle Combination Practice Test

What should be checked for hazards before beginning to couple?

1. Your path

2. The weather conditions

3. The trailer load

4. The braking system

The correct answer is: Your path

Before beginning to couple, checking your path for hazards is crucial because it directly ensures safety during the maneuver. Hazards could include obstacles, uneven surfaces, other vehicles, pedestrians, or anything else that could impede the coupling process or pose a risk during movement. Ensuring a clear path allows the driver to maneuver safely and effectively, reducing the likelihood of accidents or damage. While the other options, such as weather conditions, trailer load, and braking system, are important checks to consider as part of overall vehicle safety, they are less directly related to the immediate action of coupling. Weather conditions can affect visibility or traction, the trailer load impacts the vehicle's handling and stability, and the braking system is vital for stopping and control. However, none of these factors are as directly tied to the clear area needed to couple effectively as ensuring that your path is free of hazards.