Question 137 of 140

What should a driver do if the trailer's brakes appear to have failed entirely (no braking response) while descending a grade?

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Rely on the tractor's brakes and engine braking, downshifting further, and use an escape ramp if available
Release the tractor's parking brake to compensate
Attempt to accelerate to the bottom of the grade as fast as the engine allows to get it over with
Shift to neutral to reduce strain on the combination

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Correct answer to question 137 (Combination Vehicles): Rely on the tractor's brakes and engine braking, downshifting further, and use an escape ramp if available

Why

If trailer brakes fail on a grade, relying on whatever tractor braking and engine braking remains, along with an escape ramp if one is available, gives the best chance of a controlled stop.

Updated: November 2026

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What should a driver do if the trailer's brakes appear to have failed entirely (no braking response) while descending a grade?

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