When driving under snowy or icy conditions:
Answers
It is safe to use your cruise control.
Make speed and directional changes more gradually than you would otherwise.
Drive as you would under normal conditions.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is: Make speed and directional changes more gradually than you would otherwise.
Explanation:
Driving under snowy or icy conditions presents significant risks due to reduced traction between the tires and the road. In such conditions, it’s crucial to adjust your driving behavior to maintain control of your vehicle and prevent accidents. The key to safe driving on snow and ice is making gradual adjustments and taking extra precautions.
- Gradual Speed and Directional Changes:
Snow and ice cause your tires to have less grip on the road, making it more challenging to maintain control. When you make sudden speed or directional changes, such as abrupt braking, acceleration, or turning, you risk losing traction, which can lead to skidding or spinning out of control. Therefore, it’s essential to reduce your speed and make turns or lane changes gradually, giving yourself enough time to react to any changes in road conditions. - Avoid Using Cruise Control:
Using cruise control in snowy or icy conditions is not safe. Cruise control maintains a constant speed, which may not be ideal for adjusting to the slippery road surface. If your vehicle begins to lose traction while using cruise control, the system may not react quickly enough to help regain control. It’s better to maintain manual control over the vehicle’s speed to adjust as needed based on road conditions. - Driving Under Normal Conditions Is Risky:
It’s crucial to understand that snowy and icy roads are not like normal road conditions. Even though the car may seem to be driving normally, it’s important to recognize the higher risk involved. Without reducing speed and adjusting your driving technique, you increase the chances of skidding or losing control.
By making gradual changes, you give yourself the best chance of maintaining control and responding to unexpected road hazards. Always drive cautiously in such conditions, and remember that slower is safer.