Louisiana Class D Chauffeur's License Practice Test

Which type of brake is considered safe for stopping large vehicles?

1. Hydraulic brakes

2. Air brakes

3. Disc brakes

4. Mechanical brakes

The correct answer is: Air brakes

Air brakes are considered safe for stopping large vehicles, such as trucks and buses, due to their ability to handle heavy loads and provide consistent stopping power. Air brakes use compressed air to engage the braking system, which allows for more effective braking control across various conditions and for larger mass vehicles. They are particularly effective because the system operates off a stored air supply, which can create a more powerful and reliable braking force compared to other types of braking systems. For large vehicles that often operate at high weights, air brakes also include safety features such as automatic brake adjustment and fail-safe designs, which enhance their effectiveness. These features help ensure that the brakes will respond effectively even when the vehicle is heavily loaded or when conditions are less than ideal.