Michigan Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Practice Exam

How should cargo tie-downs be secured according to regulations?

1. They should be loose to allow for cargo movement

2. They should be of the proper type and strength to lift at least the weight of the cargo

3. They should be adjustable for easy removal

4. They must be strong enough to lift one and a half times the weight of the cargo

The correct answer is: They must be strong enough to lift one and a half times the weight of the cargo

The requirement that cargo tie-downs must be strong enough to lift one and a half times the weight of the cargo is based on safety regulations aimed at ensuring stability and security during transportation. This ensures that the tie-downs can withstand the forces that may act on the cargo while the vehicle is in motion, such as acceleration, deceleration, and turning. By having a safety margin of one and a half times the weight, it accounts for dynamic forces and helps prevent load shifting, which could lead to accidents or loss of cargo. The emphasis on strength and secure attachment means that load shifts won't compromise the integrity of the tie-downs, reducing the risk of cargo falling off the vehicle. This regulation underscores the importance of ensuring that cargo is not only secured to prevent movement but that the means of securing it are well within safety thresholds for unexpected situations during transportation. This standard is critical for both the safety of the driver and other road users.