Louisiana Class D Chauffeur's License Practice Test

When parking, under what circumstances should you avoid using the parking brake?

1. When the parking brake is broken or failing

2. When the brakes are very hot or when the brakes are wet and the temperature is freezing

3. When parked on a flat surface

4. When in a busy area

The correct answer is: When the brakes are very hot or when the brakes are wet and the temperature is freezing

Using the parking brake is essential for ensuring that a vehicle remains stationary, especially on inclines. However, there are certain circumstances where utilizing the parking brake is not advisable, particularly when the brakes are very hot or if they are wet and the temperature is freezing. When brakes are extremely hot, engaging the parking brake can lead to brake fade or damage, as the heat may cause the brake fluid to vaporize, reducing effectiveness. Additionally, if brakes are wet and temperatures are freezing, there is a risk that the brake components could freeze, making it difficult to release the parking brake when needed and potentially causing them to seize. This scenario exemplifies a situation where the integrity and functionality of the braking system could be compromised, leading to safety hazards. In contrast, parking on a flat surface does not pose any inherent risk associated with using the parking brake, as the vehicle's weight is uniformly distributed without the need for additional securing measures. Similarly, parking in a busy area or with a broken parking brake may have their own considerations, but they are not directly tied to the mechanical consequences posed by heat or moisture on the brakes.