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DMV Permit · Warning Signs

What does a yellow diamond sign with a black truck on a downward slope indicate?

Reviewed by Jordan Morley, Editorial Lead at 247SimpleTests. Written by the 247SimpleTests Editorial Team from the official source material cited on every question.

Correct answer

Steep downhill grade ahead — trucks should check their brakes before descent and use engine braking (lower gears) to prevent brake fade

  1. A Truck weigh station ahead
  2. B Steep downhill grade ahead — trucks should check their brakes before descent and use engine braking (lower gears) to prevent brake fade
  3. C No trucks beyond this point
  4. D Truck entry prohibited

Why this is the answer

Truck grade warning sign: Typically shows a truck icon with a percentage grade and/or an arrow indicating downhill. It warns that a steep descent is ahead — relevant for trucks because: heavy vehicles' brakes can overheat (brake fade) on long steep grades; once brakes fade, the vehicle cannot stop; engine compression braking (downshifting) is the primary speed control technique for trucks on grades. For regular drivers: be aware large trucks may need more stopping distance on grades; downshift on steep hills to reduce brake wear (especially in mountainous terrain); watch for 'RUNAWAY TRUCK RAMP' signs — these indicate escape ramps where runaway trucks can safely leave the road.

Source: DMV Handbook, Grade Warning Signs

Practice more questions

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About this topic: Warning Signs

Yellow diamond signs warn of hazards: curves, intersections, animals, slippery surfaces, school zones. Slow down and look further ahead when you see them. This is one of 24 Road Signs questions on warning signs, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

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

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