When coupling a tractor to a semitrailer, how should the tractor be positioned before backing up to the trailer?
✓
Correct!
Correct. Step 3 of the coupling procedure instructs the driver to position the tractor directly in front of the trailer, never at an angle, and to check position using outside mirrors by looking down both sides of the trailer.
49 CFR 383.111(c)(1) (Coupling and uncoupling -- tractor to semi-trailer); AAMVA CDL Manual
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Not quite.
Wrong. Backing at an angle is specifically warned against because it risks pushing the trailer sideways and breaking the landing gear.
The correct answer is A: Positioned directly in front of the trailer, lined up straight.
49 CFR 383.111(c)(1) (Coupling and uncoupling -- tractor to semi-trailer); AAMVA CDL Manual
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Not quite.
Wrong. A perpendicular approach is effectively backing at a sharp angle, which risks pushing the trailer sideways and damaging the landing gear.
The correct answer is A: Positioned directly in front of the trailer, lined up straight.
49 CFR 383.111(c)(1) (Coupling and uncoupling -- tractor to semi-trailer); AAMVA CDL Manual
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Not quite.
Wrong. Angle matters a great deal; backing under at an angle can push the trailer sideways and break the landing gear even at low speed.
The correct answer is A: Positioned directly in front of the trailer, lined up straight.
49 CFR 383.111(c)(1) (Coupling and uncoupling -- tractor to semi-trailer); AAMVA CDL Manual