Final answer:
Stopping a tractor/trailer combination can lead to a jackknife due to factors like driver reaction time, deceleration rates, and the trailer's load affecting stability and handling during braking.
Step-by-step explanation:
One of the hazards of stopping a tractor/trailer combination is the potential for a jackknife. A jackknife occurs when the trailer swings out to one side, potentially leading to loss of control. Factors that influence stopping include the distance covered before hitting the brakes, the time it takes for the truck to stop after applying the brakes, and the total distance the truck covers to stop. For example, if a truck is traveling at a constant velocity and the driver's reaction time is delayed, the stopping distance may not be sufficient to prevent a collision. The properties of a heavily loaded versus a nearly empty trailer will also affect the dynamics of stopping, as a bouncing trailer indicates less stability and can be an indicator of being nearly empty, leading to different handling characteristics. It is essential to consider the rate of deceleration when calculating the stopping distance to determine if the truck will stop in time, such as avoiding a collision with an obstacle on the road.