Left-hand bend on a steep descent
Look at the picture, read the situation, and mark each of the three statements true (○) or false (✕). All three right scores 2 points.
You are driving down a steep downhill slope, and the road ahead curves left so that you cannot see far. On your left is the mountainside; on your right, beyond the guardrail, is a valley. Answer true or false for each of the following.
- (1)You pick up speed from gravity on a downhill, so you keep using the foot brake continuously.
- (2)On a downhill, you use engine braking early to hold your speed down.
- (3)You go all the way down on momentum without reducing speed.
Show the answers and explanation
- (1) ✕ FalseYou pick up speed from gravity on a downhill, so you keep using the foot brake continuously.
- (2) ○ TrueOn a downhill, you use engine braking early to hold your speed down.
- (3) ✕ FalseYou go all the way down on momentum without reducing speed.
Explanation
Continuous use of the foot brake on a downhill causes vapor lock (the brakes overheat and stop working) (Rules of the Road (kyōsoku), Ch. 6, Sec. 2, 1(4)). Use engine braking early to hold your speed down (Rules of the Road, Ch. 6, Sec. 2, 1(4)). Letting your speed build on the way down also lengthens your braking distance and is dangerous.
Source: Rules of the Road (kyōsoku), Ch. 5, Sec. 4, 4(4) (controlling speed on a downhill) / Rules of the Road, Ch. 6, Sec. 2, 1(4) (engine braking)
