In inclement weather, you should:
Answers
Steer off the road.
Drive in a low gear.
Steer and brake smoothly.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is: Steer and brake smoothly.
Explanation:
In inclement weather, such as rain, snow, fog, or ice, driving conditions can become hazardous, making it essential to adjust your driving technique for safety. The most important approach is to maintain control of your vehicle and reduce the likelihood of skidding or losing traction. Here’s why steering and braking smoothly is crucial:
- Steering Smoothly: When driving in slippery conditions, sudden movements or jerky steering can cause your vehicle to lose grip on the road, especially if there is ice, snow, or rain on the surface. Abrupt steering can lead to overcorrection, which may result in a loss of control. By steering smoothly and gradually, you maintain better control and reduce the risk of skidding.
- Braking Smoothly: Sudden braking in inclement weather can cause the wheels to lock up or lose traction, leading to a skid or collision. In wet or icy conditions, it’s important to brake gently and allow extra space to stop. If your vehicle is equipped with anti-lock brakes (ABS), you should still press the brake pedal firmly and steadily, allowing the system to prevent wheel lock-up. For vehicles without ABS, it’s best to pump the brakes to avoid skidding.
- General Tips for Inclement Weather:
- Reduce speed: Wet or icy roads can increase stopping distances, so it’s important to drive slower than usual to compensate for the reduced traction.
- Increase following distance: Keep a greater distance between you and the vehicle in front of you to allow more time for braking.
- Use headlights: In low visibility conditions, such as rain or fog, always use your headlights to improve visibility for both yourself and other drivers.
By steering and braking smoothly, you help ensure a safer driving experience in hazardous weather, minimizing the risk of accidents caused by loss of vehicle control.