In adverse weather, what is the recommended adjustment to speed and following distance?

• A. Increase speed and reduce following distance.
• B. Slow down and increase following distance.
• C. Maintain speed with normal following distance.
• D. Stop until weather improves.

Answer: (B)

In adverse weather, traction and visibility are reduced, so you need more time and more space to react. Slowing down lets you maintain better control of the vehicle and reduces braking distances on slick surfaces. Increasing the following distance gives you extra time to observe and respond to the vehicle ahead without braking hard, which helps prevent skidding or a rear-end collision if conditions deteriorate suddenly. Keeping your speed and following distance as if conditions were normal makes you more prone to losing control or needing a sudden, harsh stop. So, the best approach is to reduce speed to a safe level for the weather and increase the gap to the vehicle in front, using a longer-than-usual following distance (often several seconds) to account for slower stopping and reaction times.