Which description best fits spring brakes on an air-brake vehicle?
Correct answer: C – Mechanical emergency and parking brakes held off by air pressure
Louisiana’s CDL manual explains that compressed air holds powerful springs back while the vehicle is moving. When air is released, the springs mechanically apply the brakes. This design is commonly used for emergency and parking functions because the brakes do not depend on stored air pressure to remain applied.
Source: Louisiana Commercial Driver License Manual — § 5.1.14, “Spring Brakes”

