Safety First 06: Backing and Docking

Safety First · Lesson 06 of 30 · Basic Operation
Free safety education based on the federal Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) theory curriculum. This is not certified ELDT training and does not count toward a CDL.

The sixth unit of the federal Class A theory curriculum is Backing and Docking. It covers how to back and dock a combination vehicle safely.

Because a driver cannot see everything behind the vehicle, backing is always dangerous. Safe backing depends on planning, going slowly, and checking the path.

What this unit covers

Under 49 CFR Part 380, Appendix A, this unit teaches driver-trainees to back and dock the combination vehicle safely. It covers "Get Out and Look" (GOAL), evaluation of backing and loading facilities, knowledge of backing setups, and how to back with the use of spotters.

1. Avoid backing when you can

CDL manuals advise avoiding backing whenever you can. When you park, try to park so you will be able to pull forward when you leave.

2. Get Out and Look (GOAL)

  • Look at your line of travel before you begin.
  • Get out and walk around the vehicle. Check your clearance to the sides and overhead, in and near the path you will take.
  • If you are unsure while backing, get out and check your path again.

3. Backing setups

Put the vehicle in the best position to back safely. The right position depends on the kind of backing. When you can, set up so you can back in a straight line. The federal behind-the-wheel range curriculum for Class A includes these backing exercises:

  • straight line backing,
  • alley dock backing (45 or 90 degree),
  • offset backing,
  • parallel parking, on the blind side and on the sight side.

Back toward the driver's side when you can. CDL manuals explain that backing toward the right side is very dangerous because you cannot see as well. Backing toward the driver's side lets you watch the rear of the vehicle by looking out the side window, even if that means driving around the block to set up.

4. How to back a trailer

  • Back slowly. Always back as slowly as possible, using the lowest reverse gear. This makes it easier to correct steering errors and to stop quickly.
  • Steer the opposite way. When backing a trailer, turn the top of the steering wheel in the opposite direction from the way you want the trailer to go. Once the trailer starts to turn, turn the wheel the other way to follow the trailer.
  • Correct drift right away. As soon as you see the trailer drifting off the path you want, correct it by turning the top of the steering wheel in the direction of the drift.
  • Use both mirrors. Check the outside mirrors on both sides frequently.
  • Pull up when needed. Make pull-ups to reposition the vehicle as needed.

5. Backing with a spotter

  • Use a helper when you can. There are blind spots you cannot see. That is why a helper is important.
  • The helper should stand near the back of the vehicle, where you can see the helper.
  • Before you begin backing, agree on a set of hand signals you both understand, including a signal for "stop."

Quick check

  1. What does GOAL stand for? (Answer: Get Out and Look.)
  2. Why do CDL manuals advise backing toward the driver's side? (Answer: backing toward the right side is very dangerous because you cannot see as well.)
  3. Before backing with a helper, what must you and the helper agree on? (Answer: a set of hand signals, including a signal for "stop.")

Find every Safety First lesson under DRIVE.

This lesson is general education, not legal advice. Follow the procedures in your state CDL manual, your training provider, and your carrier's yard rules, and confirm current rules with FMCSA. Drivers getting their first Class A or Class B CDL, upgrading from Class B to Class A, or getting a hazardous materials, passenger, or school bus endorsement for the first time must, with limited exceptions, complete entry-level driver training from a provider listed on FMCSA's Training Provider Registry.

Sources

FLY YOUR WHEELS!

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