At what road grade must a runaway lane be established?

• A. 3%
• B. 4%
• C. 5%
• D. 6%

Answer: (C)

A runaway lane must be established at road grades of 5% or steeper. This requirement is primarily focused on ensuring the safety of vehicles, particularly those that carry heavy loads or are unable to maintain control on steep declines. The 5% grade is significant because, at this incline, the potential for a vehicle to lose control increases, making the likelihood of a runaway scenario more probable.

Runaway lanes provide an emergency response option for vehicles that can no longer stop safely, allowing them to regain control and prevent accidents. The use of a runaway lane at a grade of 5% is aligned with safety regulations and practices implemented in the mining and transportation industries, ensuring that proper measures are in place for the protection of both drivers and equipment.