Illinois CDL Practice Exam

How should you handle intersections when driving a large vehicle?

1. Approach at high speed

2. Approach with caution and ensure the intersection is clear before proceeding

3. Yield to all vehicles

4. Ignore traffic signals

The correct answer is: Approach with caution and ensure the intersection is clear before proceeding

When driving a large vehicle, approaching intersections with caution and ensuring that the intersection is clear before proceeding is crucial for both safety and proper vehicle operation. Large vehicles, such as trucks and buses, have longer stopping distances, wider turning radii, and reduced maneuverability compared to standard passenger vehicles. By approaching an intersection with caution, drivers can better assess traffic conditions, recognize pedestrians, and identify any potential hazards. It is essential to ensure that the intersection is clear to avoid collisions and to allow adequate room for the large vehicle to navigate through safely. This practice contributes to the overall safety of the driver, passengers, and other road users, as large vehicles can pose significant risks in the event of an accident. In contrast, approaching at high speed can lead to insufficient reaction time and increase the risk of accidents. Yielding to all vehicles without assessing the situation can also be counterproductive, as it may not be necessary if the intersection is clear. Ignoring traffic signals is illegal and extremely dangerous, jeopardizing the safety of everyone on the road. Hence, cautious approach and clear intersection assessment are vital for safe driving in large vehicles.