Which of the following is a requirement for vehicles with a gross weight over 10,000 pounds regarding brakes?

The requirement for vehicles with a gross weight over 10,000 pounds is that they must have air brakes. This specification is particularly relevant for larger commercial vehicles, such as trucks and buses, where the increased weight and the need for reliable stopping power necessitate a more robust braking system. Air brakes utilize compressed air as a medium to engage the braking mechanism, providing significant stopping force that is essential for the safe operation of heavy vehicles.

In contrast, surge brakes, hydraulic brakes, and inertia brakes may not provide adequate stopping power or reliability for vehicles of this size and weight, especially under various load conditions. Typically, surge brakes are found on lighter trailers, hydraulic brakes might not handle the demands placed on heavier vehicles, and inertia brakes are primarily used in smaller applications where weight and stopping distance are less critical. Therefore, air brakes are the standard requirement for ensuring the safety and control of heavy vehicles in accordance with regulations.