How do adverse weather conditions affect stopping distance, and what driving adjustments should you make?

• A. Stopping distance increases; slow down, increase following distance, and avoid abrupt maneuvers.
• B. Stopping distance decreases; speed up.
• C. Weather has no effect; maintain the same following distance.
• D. Stop abruptly to test brakes.

Answer: (A)

Adverse weather reduces the grip between tires and the road, so braking is less effective. Your reaction time doesn’t change, but the braking distance grows on wet, snowy, or icy surfaces, making the total stopping distance longer. To stay safe, slow down, give yourself more space behind the vehicle ahead, and avoid abrupt brakes, sharp turns, or rapid acceleration. Smooth, gradual inputs help you maintain control and stop more safely. The other options encourage unsafe actions or ignore the impact of slick conditions.