Practice question

Which of the following is the recommended action to take in adverse weather conditions?

  1. Maintain the current speed
  2. Increase following distance
  3. Use high beams
  4. Drive in the center of the lane

Answer: B — Increase following distance

Increasing following distance is the recommended action to take in adverse weather conditions because it provides a greater buffer of space between your vehicle and the one in front of you. This extra distance is crucial when driving in conditions such as rain, snow, fog, or ice, where stopping distances are significantly longer due to reduced traction. By allowing for a larger following distance, you enhance your ability to react to sudden stops or slowdowns by the vehicle ahead, thereby reducing the risk of collisions. In adverse weather, maintaining current speed might lead to losing control of the vehicle, while using high beams can cause glare that reduces visibility further in conditions like fog or heavy rain. Driving in the center of the lane may not be safe either, especially if lanes are not clearly defined due to rain or snow accumulation, or if there are obstacles such as patches of ice or debris. Maintaining a larger distance not only promotes safety but also allows for better reaction time in uncertain conditions.

Practice more: Michigan Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Practice Exam →