Commercial Driver License (CDL) Class B Practice Test

True or false: Retarders keep you from skidding when the road is slippery.

1. True

2. False

3. Depends on the vehicle

4. Only when the road is dry

The correct answer is: False

Retarders are designed to help control the speed of a vehicle, particularly when descending hills, by applying resistance to the drivetrain. However, their main function is not to prevent skidding on slippery roads. In fact, using retarders on slippery surfaces can lead to decreased traction and may increase the likelihood of losing control, which can result in skidding. On wet, icy, or otherwise slippery surfaces, relying solely on retarders is not advisable, as they do not provide any additional grip or traction. Instead, it is essential to reduce speed and drive carefully under such conditions. The statement about retarders preventing skidding under these circumstances is therefore false, confirming that the correct answer is indeed "False."