Hawaii Drivers Permit Practice Test

When driving on mountain roads with sharp curves, what is a good practice?

1. Always allow an approaching vehicle at least one half of the paved surface.

2. Use a lower gear to control speed while going down long steep hills.

3. Stay close to the right edge of the road.

4. All of the above.

The correct answer is: All of the above.

Using a lower gear to control speed while going down long steep hills is particularly important because it helps to manage your vehicle's speed more effectively. When you’re on a steep descent, relying solely on brakes can lead to overheating and reduced braking efficiency. By shifting to a lower gear, the engine assists in slowing down the vehicle, allowing for better control and reducing the risk of brake failure as well. Additionally, allowing an approaching vehicle at least half of the paved surface is a good practice in navigating tight curves. This ensures that there is enough space for both vehicles to pass safely without veering off the road. Especially on narrow mountain roads, it's critical to be aware of oncoming traffic and provide sufficient room. Staying close to the right edge of the road is another essential practice on mountain roads with sharp curves. This helps maintain a safer distance from oncoming traffic and provides a clear route in case you need to maneuver around obstacles. It can also assist in preventing your vehicle from drifting off the road, which is more likely in sharp turns. Thus, adopting all these practices together provides comprehensive safety measures when driving on mountain roads with sharp curves.