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CDL · Emergencies

If you are involved in an accident that results in a hazmat release, you must:

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Correct answer

Make a notification to the National Response Center as soon as possible

  1. A Make a notification to the National Response Center as soon as possible
  2. B Report only at the next scheduled inspection
  3. C Report only if injuries occur
  4. D Wait until the destination is reached to report

Why this is the answer

Federal rules require immediate notification to the National Response Center (NRC) at 1-800-424-8802 when a hazmat incident occurs that involves: a death, serious injury requiring hospitalization, evacuation, or property damage exceeding $50,000; suspected radioactive contamination; specified bio-hazard contamination; or a continuing release that poses a danger. Other incidents require a written report within 30 days. The carrier (not just the driver) must comply, but the driver typically makes the initial call from the scene. Failure to report is itself a violation. The NRC coordinates federal response and notifies state authorities. CHEMTREC (1-800-424-9300) handles chemical-specific technical assistance but is separate from the reporting requirement.
Source: FMCSA CDL Manual 9.5.3 National Response Center

Practice more questions

This question is from our CDL Practice Tests practice test. Take the full practice test to test your knowledge across all Emergencies and other topics.

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About this topic: Emergencies

Blowouts, brake failures, off-road excursions, and skids are rare but high-stakes. Practiced responses prevent panic reactions that can turn a recoverable situation into a fatal one. This is one of 9 Hazardous Materials questions on emergencies, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

New to this exam? Our CDL exam guide explains the format, scoring, and how to prepare.

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