Before descending a steep grade with a heavy vehicle, what should the driver do?

Shifting to a lower gear before descending a steep grade with a heavy vehicle is a critical safety measure. When a driver prepares to go down a hill, particularly with a heavy vehicle, this action allows for better control of the speed of the vehicle. By using lower gears, the engine can assist in slowing down the vehicle through engine braking, which helps to reduce the reliance on the brakes. This is especially important because prolonged use of the brakes can lead to overheating and potential brake failure, making it difficult to maintain control of the vehicle.

Additionally, using a lower gear keeps the vehicle at a steady, manageable speed without the risk of accelerating uncontrollably due to gravity. This technique is vital for ensuring both the safety of the driver and others on the road. Overall, gearing down contributes to safer driving conditions on steep descents, where the heavy weight of the vehicle can easily cause it to gain speed rapidly.