Georgia Commercial Driver License Practice Test

What is the purpose of a cargo cover?

1. To enhance the vehicle's aerodynamics

2. To protect people from spilled cargo or to protect the cargo

3. To reduce the weight of the vehicle

4. To keep the vehicle clean

The correct answer is: To protect people from spilled cargo or to protect the cargo

A cargo cover serves primarily to protect both people and the cargo itself. When transporting items, especially in open-bed vehicles or trailers, unsecured or exposed cargo can shift during transit, potentially leading to spills, falls, or debris on the roadway. This not only poses a safety hazard to other drivers and pedestrians but also risks damage to the cargo. By using a cargo cover, drivers can maintain the integrity of their load, preventing items from blowing out of the vehicle and ensuring that they arrive at their destination safely and intact. Additionally, a cover helps shield the cargo from environmental elements such as rain, snow, or road debris, further safeguarding both the items being transported and the safety of others on the road. Other considerations like aerodynamics, weight reduction, and cleanliness do play a role in vehicle operation, but they are secondary to the primary function of a cargo cover, which is the protection of people and the cargo itself.