Practice question

How do you handle glassy road surfaces when driving?

  1. Maintain normal speed and be alert
  2. Reduce speed and increase following distance
  3. Accelerate to avoid slipping
  4. Drive in the tire tracks of other cars

Answer: B — Reduce speed and increase following distance

When driving on glassy road surfaces, reducing speed and increasing following distance is essential for safety. Glassy road conditions often indicate ice or slick surfaces, which can significantly reduce traction between your vehicle's tires and the road. By slowing down, you minimize the risk of losing control of the vehicle; this also gives you more time to react to sudden changes in the driving environment. Increasing the following distance is equally important as it provides extra space to stop safely and allows for more time to respond if the vehicle ahead makes any abrupt maneuvers. Maintaining a greater distance from other vehicles helps prevent collisions due to reduced stopping power on slippery surfaces. This approach underlines the principle of defensive driving; rather than attempting to maintain normal speeds or take actions that could lead to loss of control, it emphasizes prudence and preparedness for unexpected situations often found in adverse weather conditions.

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