When starting from a stop and the driver wheels start to spin, what is the appropriate response?

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Study for the Utah CDL General Knowledge Test. Prepare with multiple choice questions and explanations for each answer. Get ready for your exam!

When starting from a stop and the drive wheels begin to spin, the most appropriate action is to take your foot off the accelerator. This response helps to regain traction on the road. When the wheels spin, it indicates that there is a loss of grip between the tires and the surface. By easing off the accelerator, you reduce the power being sent to the wheels, allowing them to gradually regain traction.

Continuing to push the accelerator harder can lead to further spinning, making it difficult to regain control. Braking immediately may cause the vehicle to skid, especially if road conditions are slick. Turning the steering wheel sharply does not address the spinning directly and can also lead to loss of control if the tires are not gripping the road effectively. Thus, taking your foot off the accelerator is the safest and most effective way to handle the situation.