Ever come across these grade signs and wonder what they mean? All truck drivers should but for those who don't read on.
When these warning signs are shown on the highway are no for scenery or pleasure but are actual warnings. The first thing to look at when seeing these signs is the grade % and how many miles. How the grading system works is pretty simple, the steeper the slope the higher the grade. The miles indicated in the picture above represents the length of the downgrade. For example, at 6% downgrade with seven miles listed means you are going down the hill or mountain at a 6% grade for seven miles.
The five axles or more signs are also applicable to individuals that are pulling any kind of trailer. People that are pulling small Uhaul trailers, campers, boats, etc, should read these warning signs. The axle sign is broken down into weight categories, 60K-65K, 65-70, 70-75, and 75-80,000lbs. However, small cars and pickup trucks will want to heed these warnings because of the heavier gross weight the faster the descent. A lot of times pickup trucks and cars will lose control of the trailer they are towing because they are traveling too fast. Even if you are running late, behind, whatever the reason may be, SLOW DOWN! Nothing is worth your life. A vehicle, trailer, boat, camper, etc can be replaced.
If you are pulling a small trailer, boat, camper, etc. Before you start down to pull off on the shoulder or rest area and inspect your brakes. Commercial drivers have a job to do like everyone else traveling the highways. If hauling a Uhaul trailer, friend's trailer or pulling something that has wheels on the back inspect the brakes before traveling down.
Say you're traveling down one of these grades and you see something that looks like this:
Seeing smokey brakes does not mean the vehicle is out of control. Smokey brakes can happen on any vehicle not just commercial. Again, if you are hauling a trailer all your brakes can start to smoke from getting warm. If you see a vehicle with smokey brakes don't be alarmed. If you have a CB radio in your vehicle be courteous and let the driver know. Also, vehicles that have flashing hazard lights traveling downhill means the vehicle is going slower than the suggested speed limit. Don't get angry and start honking your horn, instead go around. They are just doing their job to keep control of the vehicle safely.