Driving emergencies: steering, stopping and escape

Section 2.17 of the CDL handbook covers traffic emergencies, emergency steering and stopping, and brake failure. It is tested on the General Knowledge test.

Key facts

Part of	the General Knowledge test (80% to pass)	DL-7C p. iv
Handbook section	§2.17 Driving emergencies	DL-7C p. 2-34
Questions in CDL Mile's bank	10	CDL Mile, checked against DL-7C

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 handbook warn against braking while you make a quick emergency turn?

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

Sources

Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Handbook (DL-7C), revised March 2026, Texas Department of Public Safety. Page references are to its printed page numbers. CDL Mile is independent and not affiliated with Texas DPS.

Updated for the March 2026 Texas CDL handbook (DL-7C). Last checked November 4, 2026.

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