Practice question

What should you do if your vehicle loses power steering?

  1. Accelerate to regain control
  2. Continue driving until the next station
  3. Pull over and stop safely without sudden movements
  4. Turn off the engine immediately

Answer: C — Pull over and stop safely without sudden movements

When a vehicle loses power steering, it can become significantly more difficult to maneuver, particularly at lower speeds or when making sharp turns. The proper course of action is to pull over and stop safely without making any sudden movements. This allows the driver to regain control of the vehicle rather than attempting to drive it under difficult conditions, which could lead to further loss of control or a collision. Safely pulling over gives the driver time to assess the situation, check for the cause of the power steering failure, and consider the next steps, such as contacting a mechanic or roadside assistance. Keeping movements gentle and controlled while navigating to a safe area minimizes the risk of losing control further and is crucial for maintaining safety on the road.

Practice more: Texas CDL Section 14 Practice Test →