Trucking Rodeo Practice Test

Cargo on commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) with a gross weight rating over 10,000 lbs must be secured to withstand forces that can act in multiple directions, including left, right, and even upward. This requirement is primarily based on the physics of vehicle movement and the potential for abrupt changes in direction.

When a CMV is in motion, various forces can affect the cargo due to acceleration, deceleration, turning, and braking. For instance, during a left or right turn, the cargo must be secured adequately to prevent it from shifting due to centrifugal force acting in the opposite direction of the turn. Similarly, in the case of sudden stops or rapid accelerations, forces will act on the cargo, which pushes it forward or backward, necessitating securement in those directions as well.

Additionally, while upward forces may not be as frequently considered, it’s essential for cargo to be secured to prevent it from being dislodged from the vehicle, especially in the case of rough terrain or speed bumps. Therefore, ensuring that cargo is secured against forces in both lateral directions—left and right—as well as upward is vital for the safety of the vehicle, the driver, and other road users. This comprehensive approach to cargo securement is mandated by