Vehicle Emergencies — Colorado Driver's License Practice Test

This Colorado Driver's License Vehicle Emergencies practice set has 5 practice questions based on the official exam materials, each with an instant explanation. You need 80% on the real Colorado Driver's License knowledge test to pass.

Sample questions

Three questions from the Vehicle Emergencies bank with the correct answer and an explanation. The practice quiz above draws 5 questions at random from the same bank.

1. If your brakes fail, what should you do FIRST after taking your foot off the accelerator?

   • Pump the brake pedal several times to build up brake pressure — Correct answer
   • Yank the parking brake as hard and fast as possible
   • Turn off the engine immediately
   • Shift into reverse to slow the vehicle

   Explanation: Pump the brake pedal several times to build up brake pressure; if that fails, apply the parking brake slowly (ready to release it if the vehicle skids); if that fails, shift to lower gears and find a safe place to stop — never drive without brakes.

   Handbook: Vehicle Emergencies — Brake failure

2. What should you do if a tire blows out while you are driving?

   • Hold the wheel tightly, keep going straight, slow down gradually and brake lightly — Correct answer
   • Brake hard immediately to stop as fast as possible
   • Steer sharply toward the shoulder while braking hard
   • Stop in your lane and turn on the emergency flashers

   Explanation: Hold the steering wheel tightly, keep the vehicle going straight while slowing down gradually, take your foot off the gas and use the brakes lightly; do not stop on the road if possible — pull off the road in a safe place.

   Handbook: Vehicle Emergencies — Tire blowout

3. If your engine suddenly fails (power failure) while driving, what should you know about steering and braking?

   • Steering becomes difficult but still works, and the brakes work but may require very hard pressure — Correct answer
   • Both steering and brakes stop working completely
   • The steering locks, so you must stop with the parking brake only
   • Nothing changes — the vehicle handles exactly the same

   Explanation: Keep a strong grip on the steering wheel — the steering becomes difficult to turn but you can turn it; pull off the roadway; the brakes will still work but you may have to push very hard on the pedal.

   Handbook: Vehicle Emergencies — Power failure