3 Points of Contact

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by TheShadow, Aug 28, 2012.

  1. TheShadow

    TheShadow Light Load Member

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    Anywhere, USA
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    Dear TR Forum:

    On page 12-1 of my DMV CDL manual under Section 12: Basic Vehicle Control Skills Test, under subsection 12.1 Scoring, Outside Vehicle Observation (Looks): "...when exiting the vehicle you must do so safely by facing the vehicle and maintaining three points of contact with the vehicle at all times." As I plan on getting a CDL Class A Tractor-trailer License (not a bus license), what does three points of contact mean? This puzzles me because if one is getting out of the rig it probably means they have to leave the tractor and look behind the trailer for tricky backing up situations. One may face the vehicle at all times, but what is meant by three points of contact? This sounds crucial as one is supposed to check their load every 150 miles regardless, according to the DMV CDL manual.:biggrin_25521:


    Thanks,

    The Shadow.
     
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  3. newone716

    newone716 Bobtail Member

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    3 points of contact example 2 hands 1 foot touching the truck hand rails and steps
     
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  4. wis bang

    wis bang Road Train Member

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    Matlack called it the 'Three Limb Rule'.

    Back in the days of COE trucks falls were a huge compensation problem.

    That is the same reason they started using the safety ladders on the tankers.
     
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  5. ghettochild

    ghettochild Medium Load Member

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    atlanta,ga
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    Think of it as climbing a ladder.I seen a guy pass pre-trip,backing,road test, got happy at end and jump of rig and failed
     
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  6. STexan

    STexan Road Train Member

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    Wether you are getting out of the truck at the end of your day or you are getting out a dozen times during a difficult backing maneuver, the rule still applies. More drivers get hurt when they are either in a hurry to exit/enter the vehicle or just become complacent "hopping into and out of" their truck. There is only one correct way, not a way for when you are in a hurry and a way for when you have lot's of time on your hands. But you'll notice the heavier the driver is, the less apt he is to "hastily" enter or exit the vehicle in an improper manner ... for whatever reason.
     
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  7. Okieron

    Okieron Crusty Okie

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    you have all the info just don't jump even if you are just super happy and celebrating too many careers have ended because of one step !
     
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  8. Grumppy

    Grumppy Trucker Forum STAFF Staff Member

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    If I remember right (when entering or exiting the vehicle), your supposed to have one foot on the step, one hand on a hand rail by the door & one hand on a door handle or either the steering wheel & steady yourself getting in &/or out of the vehicle.

    Hence: One foot & two hands = three point contact.
     
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  9. chompi

    chompi Road Train Member

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    Odd that is actually in the DMV handbook! Thought it was always more of a company safety thing. Why would Uncle Sam care if we busted our ### getting out of the truck?! No money in it for them!

    Here's another biggie not mentioned in the book... Wipe the diesel off your feet after you fuel! This can make your shoes like ice skates and not only dangerous climbing in and out of your truck but it will make your feet slip off the brake and clutch potentially breaking your shin bone or jumping the truck forward and running someone over in the fuel island! Happens a lot!

    One more they don't tell you.... When in Wyoming or Nebraska where the wind usually exceeds 45mph everyday keep your hand on the handle of the door when opening so that it doesn't get snatched off the truck. Same when entering the vehicle, the door could slam so hard it would break your leg were it in the way!
     
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  10. dptrucker

    dptrucker Road Train Member

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    you have total of four limbs.any combo of three must be in contact somewhere on vehicle.
     
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  11. dptrucker

    dptrucker Road Train Member

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    you have total of four limbs.any combo of three must be in contact somewhere on vehicle. imo.. i wouldn,t make it a habit of grabbing door.you can loose balance when door opens or closes
     
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