New Jersey Air Brakes Practice Test

When is it acceptable to leave your truck unattended without applying the parking brake or chocking the wheels?

1. When parked on a flat surface

2. Only for a few minutes

3. When the engine is off

4. Never

The correct answer is: Never

Leaving a truck unattended without applying the parking brake or chocking the wheels is never acceptable due to safety concerns. Regardless of the surface the vehicle is parked on, or whether the engine is running or off, there is always a risk that the vehicle could roll. This can happen due to various factors, such as the slope of the ground, vibrations from other vehicles, or unintentional actions from others. Using the parking brake and chocking the wheels ensures that the vehicle remains stationary, preventing accidents that could lead to property damage, injury, or worse. Ensuring the vehicle is secure is a fundamental aspect of operating heavy vehicles safely and complies with regulations and best practices in the trucking industry. Always prioritizing safety measures reflects responsibility as a driver and helps protect both the vehicle and those in the vicinity.