Michigan Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Practice Exam

What should you ideally do before steering back onto the pavement after driving on the shoulder?

1. If possible come to a complete stop

2. Accelerate to regain speed

3. Signal and merge without stopping

4. Slow down gradually

The correct answer is: If possible come to a complete stop

Before steering back onto the pavement after driving on the shoulder, it is ideal to come to a complete stop if possible. This allows the driver to assess the situation fully, ensuring that the roadway is clear of oncoming traffic and that it is safe to merge back onto the road. Stopping provides an opportunity to check for any potential hazards that may not be immediately visible while in motion. This careful approach minimizes the risk of collisions and ensures a safer transition back onto the road. It fosters better control of the vehicle, as moving directly from the shoulder back onto the pavement without stopping can lead to loss of control or misjudgment of traffic conditions. The other options may involve risks, as accelerating to regain speed or signaling and merging without stopping does not allow adequate time to evaluate the traffic situation, which can increase the likelihood of an accident. Slowing down gradually is a safer approach but may not provide the complete pause necessary for a proper assessment of the road ahead.