What are two special conditions when you should downshift your vehicle?

Downshifting your vehicle is an important technique for maintaining control and managing speed, particularly under certain driving conditions. One of the primary situations when downshifting is necessary is before starting downhill. This allows the driver to utilize engine braking, which can help maintain a safer speed on the descent and reduce reliance on the brake system, preventing overheating and potential brake failure.

Additionally, downshifting before entering a curve is crucial because it allows for better control and stability while navigating the turn. By downshifting, the driver can match the engine’s RPMs to the vehicle’s speed, which enhances traction and control, particularly in large vehicles such as trucks that may be more challenging to maneuver in turns.

The other options presented do not align with the best practices for downshifting. While stopping and starting uphill may involve shifting gears, it typically does not require downshifting in the way that tackling downgrades or turns does. Consequently, knowing when to downshift is key to safe driving, particularly in a commercial driving context.