CDL Mile

Driving emergencies: steering, stopping and escape

Section 2.17 of the New Jersey CDL Manual (p. 2-34) covers traffic emergencies, emergency steering and stopping, and brake failure. It is tested on the General Knowledge test.

Key facts

Part ofthe General Knowledge test (80% to pass)
Manual section§2.17 Driving emergencies
Questions in CDL Mile's bank10

Key rules

  • § 2.17.1p. 2-34

    If an oncoming driver drifts into your lane, move to your right. When that driver realizes the mistake, the natural reaction is to swerve back into their own lane.

    Steering to Avoid a Crash

  • § 2.17.2p. 2-35

    In stab braking, release when the wheels lock and reapply fully as soon as they start rolling. It can take up to a second for them to roll again, and reapplying too soon will not let the vehicle straighten out.

    How to Stop Quickly and Safely

  • § 2.17.3p. 2-35

    A spongy pedal or one that goes to the floor means lost hydraulic pressure. Pumping the pedal can sometimes build enough pressure to stop, and downshifting and careful use of the parking brake also help.

    Brake Failure

Try two questions

General Knowledge · Driving emergencies

Why does the manual warn against braking while you make a quick emergency turn?

Tap an answer to see the explanation and the manual page.

General Knowledge · Driving emergencies

To avoid a crash, you have driven onto a firm, clear shoulder at highway speed. When should you start using your brakes?

Tap an answer to see the explanation and the manual page.

More General Knowledge topics

Medical documentationCDL disqualificationsOther CDL rulesVehicle inspectionBasic vehicle controlShifting gearsSeeingCommunicatingControlling speedManaging spaceSeeing hazardsDistracted drivingAggressive drivers and road rageDriving at nightDriving in fogDriving in winterDriving in very hot weatherRailroad-highway crossingsMountain drivingAntilock braking systemsSkid control and recoveryCrash proceduresFiresAlcohol, drugs and illnessHazardous materials rules for all driversInspecting cargoWeight and balanceSecuring cargoCargo needing special attentionAll General Knowledge →

Sources

New Jersey Commercial Driver License Manual, version March 2025, New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. Page references are to its printed page numbers. CDL Mile is independent and not affiliated with the NJ MVC.

Updated for the March 2025 New Jersey CDL manual. Last checked November 5, 2026.

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