Practice question

How should you handle driving in icy conditions?

  1. Increase speed and decrease following distance
  2. Reduce speed and increase following distance
  3. Turn on hazard lights and maintain speed
  4. Use cruise control for better traction

Answer: B — Reduce speed and increase following distance

When driving in icy conditions, reducing speed and increasing following distance is crucial for safety. Icy roads can significantly reduce traction, making it difficult for vehicles to stop or maneuver as they would under normal conditions. By reducing your speed, you allow yourself more time to react to potential hazards and decrease the force of any potential collisions should an incident occur. Increasing the following distance is equally important because it provides a larger buffer zone between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you. This added space is essential in icy conditions, as stopping distances are much longer on slippery surfaces compared to dry roads. With a greater distance, you can respond more safely if the vehicle ahead brakes suddenly or loses control. Overall, adapting your driving behavior to the conditions, such as by slowing down and leaving more space, helps maintain control and enhances safety for yourself and others on the road.

Practice more: Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) Driver's Ed Practice Exam →