What are the penalty points for starting on a steep slope?
2 Answers
Penalty points for starting on a steep slope include: if the vehicle's bumper is not aligned with the pole line and exceeds 50 cm front or back, 100 points will be deducted; if the vehicle rolls back more than 30 cm when starting, 100 points will be deducted; if the vehicle's bumper is not aligned with the pole line but does not exceed 50 cm front or back, 20 points will be deducted; if the vehicle body is not stopped close to the side within 30 cm of the right line, 20 points will be deducted; if the vehicle rolls back less than 30 cm when starting, 20 points will be deducted. Precautions for starting on a steep slope: The timing of releasing the parking brake should be appropriate. If it is too early, the clutch semi-engagement timing has not been reached, and insufficient engine power may cause the vehicle to roll back. If it is too late, the braking effect is not released in time, which may easily cause the engine to stall. If the vehicle rolls back when starting, quickly press the clutch pedal and brake pedal to stop, and restart according to the action essentials. Do not forcibly start by suddenly releasing the clutch pedal or deeply pressing the accelerator pedal, nor by suddenly pulling the parking brake. If the accelerator pedal is not pressed enough or the clutch pedal is lifted too quickly when starting, and you feel insufficient power or the engine stalls, do not release the parking brake lever. Quickly press the clutch pedal and restart according to the action essentials.
I feel that hill starts are the most nerve-wracking part of the driving test, especially since I have over a decade of driving experience and was penalized during my initial training. The main point deductions include rolling back more than 30 cm, which causes the car to slide backward and results in immediate penalty from the examiner; stalling during startup is more common—releasing the clutch too quickly or failing to coordinate with the accelerator causes the engine to cut out; improper throttle control may lead to sudden jerks or insufficient power to climb, affecting stability; not holding the steering wheel steady, causing body sway or deviation from the track also incurs penalties; incorrect handbrake usage, such as forgetting to release it or delayed release, is considered non-standard operation. It's advisable to practice more on quiet slopes—first find the half-clutch point (hold when the clutch is lifted until the car slightly vibrates), then gently press the accelerator while releasing the handbrake to avoid rolling back or stalling. Ensuring driving safety is more important than anything else.
