Defensive Driving In Inclement Weather
A quiz which tests individual's knowledge of safe driving during inclement weather conditions.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
If a driver absolutely must continue driving during inclement weather conditions the best defenses are as follows: _____________.
- A.
Speeding up and decreasing following distance
- B.
Paying less attention to the road and weather conditions
- C.
Slowing down and increasing following distance
Correct Answer
C. Slowing down and increasing following distanceExplanation
When driving in inclement weather conditions, it is important to slow down and increase the following distance. This allows the driver to have more time to react to any potential hazards on the road, such as slippery surfaces or reduced visibility. By reducing speed, the driver can also maintain better control of the vehicle and avoid skidding or hydroplaning. Increasing the following distance provides a buffer zone in case the vehicle in front suddenly stops or encounters an obstacle. This allows for safer braking and minimizes the risk of a collision.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Bad weather and other road hazards don't place special stress upon a defensive driver.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Defensive drivers are trained to anticipate and respond to various road hazards, including bad weather conditions. They understand that adverse weather can make the roads slippery, reduce visibility, and increase the likelihood of accidents. Therefore, defensive drivers adjust their driving techniques and take extra precautions to ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road. Consequently, bad weather and other road hazards do place special stress upon a defensive driver, making the statement false.Rate this question:
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- 3.
The best rule in any kind of bad weather or extreme road condition is to get off the road safely and as soon as possible.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
In bad weather or extreme road conditions, it is safest to get off the road as soon as possible. This is because driving in such conditions can be dangerous and increase the risk of accidents. Getting off the road reduces the chances of encountering hazards, such as poor visibility, slippery surfaces, or other vehicles that may lose control. It is always better to prioritize safety and find a safe place to wait until the weather or road conditions improve.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Fog reduces available visibility and impairs distance perception, making it perhaps the most dangerous type of extreme weather condition.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Fog is indeed a dangerous type of extreme weather condition because it reduces visibility and impairs distance perception. This means that it becomes difficult for drivers and pedestrians to see clearly, leading to an increased risk of accidents. The reduced visibility also affects transportation systems, such as air travel, as it can disrupt schedules and cause delays. Therefore, it is true that fog is a hazardous weather condition.Rate this question:
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- 5.
The best defense when forced to drive in fog is to pull off the road and park safely until the fog dissipates or is burned off, if at all possible.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The best defense when forced to drive in fog is to pull off the road and park safely until the fog dissipates or is burned off, if at all possible. This is because driving in fog can greatly reduce visibility and increase the risk of accidents. By pulling off the road and waiting for the fog to clear, it ensures the safety of both the driver and other road users.Rate this question:
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- 6.
If you must drive in fog you should do the following: ________________________________.
- A.
Use high beam headlights only
- B.
Use low beam headlights only
- C.
Speed up
- D.
Assume the fog is not that heavy or thick
Correct Answer
B. Use low beam headlights onlyExplanation
When driving in fog, it is important to use low beam headlights only. This is because high beam headlights can reflect off the fog, creating glare and reducing visibility even further. Low beam headlights, on the other hand, provide a shorter and wider beam of light that helps to illuminate the road ahead without reflecting off the fog. This allows the driver to see better and be seen by other vehicles on the road.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Low beam headlights are used when driving in the fog because ______________________.
- A.
They help the driver see the immediate roadway.
- B.
They are less likely to drain the car's battery power.
- C.
They allow other drivers to see the motorist's vehicle.
- D.
A, b and c
- E.
A and c
Correct Answer
E. A and cExplanation
Low beam headlights are used when driving in the fog because they help the driver see the immediate roadway and allow other drivers to see the motorist's vehicle.Rate this question:
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- 8.
A defensive driver should always assume the depth or thickness of fog.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
A defensive driver should not assume the depth or thickness of fog because it can vary greatly and change rapidly. Instead, they should be cautious and adapt their driving behavior accordingly, such as reducing their speed, increasing following distance, and using appropriate headlights and fog lights if necessary. Assuming the depth or thickness of fog can lead to complacency and increase the risk of accidents.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Determining a correct and safe speed depends on the thickness of the fog and is left to the driver’s best judgment.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The statement is true because determining the appropriate speed in foggy conditions is subjective and depends on the driver's judgement. The thickness of the fog can vary, and it is up to the driver to assess the visibility and adjust their speed accordingly to ensure safety. There are no fixed rules or guidelines for driving in fog, so it is important for drivers to use their best judgement to determine a safe speed.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Avoid the use of high-beam headlights while driving in fog. The water particles that make up fog will reflect more light back at the driver than onto the roadway when high beams are used, and will further reduce visibility.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Using high-beam headlights while driving in fog is not recommended because the water particles in the fog will reflect the light back at the driver instead of onto the roadway. This reflection can further reduce visibility, making it more difficult for the driver to see the road ahead. Therefore, it is true that one should avoid using high-beam headlights in foggy conditions.Rate this question:
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- 11.
When driving in fog, which of the following actions should the defensive driver take? (Check all that apply.)
- A.
Use windshield wipers and defroster to clear windshield of water mist.
- B.
As a matter of routine stop on the traveled roadway when driving in foggy conditions.
- C.
Activate emergency flashers and turn off headlights,if fog forces you to stop on the side of the road or in the emergency or breakdown lane.
Correct Answer(s)
A. Use windshield wipers and defroster to clear windshield of water mist.
C. Activate emergency flashers and turn off headlights,if fog forces you to stop on the side of the road or in the emergency or breakdown lane.Explanation
When driving in fog, a defensive driver should use windshield wipers and defroster to clear the windshield of water mist. This is important to maintain visibility and ensure a clear view of the road ahead. Additionally, if the fog forces the driver to stop on the side of the road or in the emergency or breakdown lane, they should activate emergency flashers and turn off headlights. This helps to alert other drivers of their presence and prevent accidents.Rate this question:
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- 12.
When rain first begins, the road becomes covered with a thin layer of oil and other residues which causes the road to become slippery.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
When rain first begins, the road becomes covered with a thin layer of oil and other residues. This layer makes the road slippery, increasing the risk of accidents and making it harder for vehicles to maintain traction. Therefore, the statement "the road becomes slippery" is true.Rate this question:
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- 13.
How long does it take for rain to break down the slippery oils on a roadway?
- A.
Less than a minute
- B.
From a few minutes to several hours
- C.
No time at all
- D.
30 minutes
Correct Answer
B. From a few minutes to several hoursExplanation
Rain can break down the slippery oils on a roadway in a variable amount of time, ranging from a few minutes to several hours. The time it takes depends on various factors like the intensity of the rain, the amount of oil present, and the condition of the roadway. In some cases, a heavy downpour can quickly wash away the oils, while in others, it may take longer for the rain to fully break them down. Therefore, the time required can vary within this given range.Rate this question:
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- 14.
A condition that happens when a thin layer of water separates the vehicle's tires from the road surface is called _____.
- A.
Waterboarding
- B.
Jet skiing
- C.
Hydroplaning
- D.
Sliding
Correct Answer
C. HydroplaningExplanation
Hydroplaning is the correct answer because it refers to a condition where a thin layer of water accumulates between the tires of a vehicle and the road surface, causing a loss of traction and control. This can happen when it is raining heavily or when there is standing water on the road. As the tires are unable to grip the road, the vehicle may slide or skid, potentially leading to accidents.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Which statement below is false?
- A.
A hydroplaning vehicle is riding on water.
- B.
When tires ride on water, they lose all traction and create a very dangerous situation.
- C.
The slower a vehicle travels on standing water, the greater the chance of hydroplaning.
- D.
Reducing speed is the best and safest way to avoid hydroplaning.
Correct Answer
C. The slower a vehicle travels on standing water, the greater the chance of hydroplaning. -
- 16.
When driving in the rain, a defensive driver should ____________________. (Check all that apply.)
- A.
Reduce speed to avoid becoming a hazard for other drivers and to avoid hydroplaning.
- B.
Determine the correct and safe speed depending upon the weather conditions.
- C.
Decrease following distance.
- D.
Allow for greater stopping distance if need to stop arises.
- E.
Use windshield wipers and defroster.
- F.
Pass other vehicles if opportunity arises.
- G.
Follow other vehicles from a safe distance.
- H.
Drive in "tracks" left by vehicles ahead of you to provide best possible traction.
Correct Answer(s)
A. Reduce speed to avoid becoming a hazard for other drivers and to avoid hydroplaning.
B. Determine the correct and safe speed depending upon the weather conditions.
D. Allow for greater stopping distance if need to stop arises.
E. Use windshield wipers and defroster.
G. Follow other vehicles from a safe distance.
H. Drive in "tracks" left by vehicles ahead of you to provide best possible traction.Explanation
When driving in the rain, a defensive driver should reduce speed to avoid becoming a hazard for other drivers and to avoid hydroplaning. They should also determine the correct and safe speed depending upon the weather conditions. Additionally, they should allow for greater stopping distance if the need to stop arises, use windshield wipers and defroster, follow other vehicles from a safe distance, and drive in "tracks" left by vehicles ahead of them to provide the best possible traction.Rate this question:
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- 17.
The defensive driver use his/her best judgment to determine a safe speed and following distance when driving in light, powdery snow.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
A defensive driver understands that driving in light, powdery snow can be hazardous and requires adjusting their speed and following distance accordingly. They use their best judgment to determine a safe speed that allows them to maintain control of their vehicle and react to any potential hazards on the road. By doing so, they reduce the risk of accidents and ensure their own safety as well as the safety of others on the road.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Who is always responsible for determining the correct speed and safe following distance?
- A.
Highway workers
- B.
Police
- C.
The driver himself
- D.
Other drivers
Correct Answer
C. The driver himselfExplanation
The driver himself is always responsible for determining the correct speed and safe following distance. This is because the driver is in control of the vehicle and must make decisions based on the road conditions, traffic flow, and other factors. It is the driver's responsibility to adjust their speed and maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead to ensure their own safety and the safety of others on the road. Highway workers, police, and other drivers may provide guidance or enforcement, but ultimately it is up to the driver to make these determinations.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Heavy, slushy snow doesn't affect vehicle control.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Heavy, slushy snow can significantly affect vehicle control. Slushy snow is wet and slippery, making it difficult for tires to maintain traction on the road. This can lead to reduced steering control, longer braking distances, and an increased risk of skidding or losing control of the vehicle. Therefore, the statement that heavy, slushy snow doesn't affect vehicle control is false.Rate this question:
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- 20.
If snow becomes hard packed it can cause an ice hazard on the road surface.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
When snow becomes hard packed, it means that it has been compressed and solidified due to the weight of vehicles or other factors. This hard packed snow creates a smooth and slippery surface, similar to ice, which can be extremely hazardous for drivers. The lack of traction on the road can lead to accidents and loss of control of vehicles. Therefore, it is true that hard packed snow can cause an ice hazard on the road surface.Rate this question:
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- 21.
When driving in snow, the defensive driver should__________________.
- A.
Slow down and increase following distance.
- B.
Speed up and decrease following distance.
- C.
Use high beam headlights.
Correct Answer
A. Slow down and increase following distance.Explanation
When driving in snow, it is important for the defensive driver to slow down and increase their following distance. This is because driving at a slower speed allows for better control and maneuverability on slippery surfaces, while increasing the following distance provides more time to react and stop in case of unexpected situations. Speeding up and decreasing following distance can be dangerous and increase the risk of accidents in snowy conditions. Using high beam headlights is not necessary for driving in snow and may actually reduce visibility due to the reflection of light off the snow particles.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Falling or blowing snow can greatly reduce visibility and make it hard to see the road, road markings, road signs, and off ramps.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Falling or blowing snow can create a hazardous situation on the road by significantly reducing visibility. This can make it difficult for drivers to see the road ahead, road markings, road signs, and off ramps. As a result, it is true that falling or blowing snow can greatly reduce visibility and make it challenging for drivers to navigate safely.Rate this question:
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- 23.
As with driving in foggy conditions, the use of high-beam “shooting” light will reflect off falling and blowing snow and reflect back at the driver, further reducing visibility.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Using high-beam "shooting" light in foggy or snowy conditions can cause the light to reflect off the falling or blowing snow, creating a glare that reduces visibility for the driver. This can make it even more difficult to see the road and other objects, increasing the risk of accidents. Therefore, the statement is true.Rate this question:
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- 24.
When driving in snow, all slow maneuvers such as starting out, steering, backing and turning should be done smoothly and with extreme care to minimize skids and slides.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
When driving in snow, it is important to perform slow maneuvers smoothly and with extreme care in order to minimize skids and slides. This is because snow can create slippery conditions on the road, making it easier for the vehicle to lose traction and slide. By performing slow maneuvers smoothly and with care, the driver can maintain better control of the vehicle and reduce the risk of skidding or sliding. Therefore, the statement "True" is the correct answer as it accurately reflects the need for cautious driving in snowy conditions.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Snow hypnosis occurs when a driver is traveling directly into heavy snow and begins to focus on the falling snow instead of the road ahead.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Snow hypnosis is a phenomenon that can occur when a driver becomes mesmerized by the heavy snowfall while driving, causing them to lose focus on the road ahead. This distraction can be dangerous and potentially lead to accidents. Therefore, the statement "Snow hypnosis occurs when a driver is traveling directly into heavy snow and begins to focus on the falling snow instead of the road ahead" is true.Rate this question:
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- 26.
At what time of day is snow hypnosis most likely to occur?
- A.
8 AM
- B.
Noon
- C.
3 PM
- D.
Midnight
Correct Answer
D. MidnightExplanation
Snow hypnosis is most likely to occur at midnight because during this time, the temperature is typically colder, and there is less activity and noise, creating a serene and peaceful environment. The darkness and stillness of the night, coupled with the beauty and calmness of falling snow, can induce a hypnotic state in some individuals. Additionally, the absence of distractions and the quietness of the surroundings may enhance the hypnotic effect, making midnight the optimal time for snow hypnosis.Rate this question:
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- 27.
It is more important to reduce speed than to increase following distance when driving in ice.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Increasing following distance is more important than reducing speed when driving in ice. This is because ice reduces traction and increases the likelihood of skidding or sliding. By increasing the following distance, drivers allow themselves more time to react and stop safely if the vehicle in front of them suddenly slows down or stops. Reducing speed alone may not be sufficient to prevent accidents on icy roads. Therefore, the statement is false.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Changes in road surface conditions may affect the vehicle's traction when driving in ice.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Changes in road surface conditions, such as the presence of ice, can significantly impact a vehicle's traction. When driving on ice, the road surface becomes slippery, reducing the tire's grip on the road. This lack of traction can cause the vehicle to lose control, leading to accidents or skidding. Therefore, it is crucial for drivers to be aware of and adapt to changing road surface conditions, including ice, to maintain control over their vehicle and ensure their safety on the road.Rate this question:
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- 29.
•Depending on the temperature and road conditions, stopping distance (the distance needed to come to a complete stop) on icy roads can increase __________________versus stopping from the same speed on a dry road.
- A.
Two to three times
- B.
Three to five times
- C.
Four to six times
- D.
Four to ten times
Correct Answer
D. Four to ten times -
- 30.
Black ice forms when temperatures drop rapidly and any moisture on the road surface freezes into a smooth, almost transparent layer of ice.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Black ice forms when temperatures drop rapidly and any moisture on the road surface freezes into a smooth, almost transparent layer of ice. This statement is true because black ice is a real phenomenon that occurs when the road surface is extremely cold and there is moisture present. It is called black ice because it is transparent and blends in with the color of the road, making it difficult to see, especially at night. Black ice is extremely dangerous for drivers as it provides very little traction, leading to accidents and skidding.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Black ice is particularly dangerous as the driver may not realize he/she is on it until it is too late.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Black ice is a thin, transparent layer of ice that forms on the road surface, making it extremely slippery. It is called black ice because it blends with the color of the road, making it difficult to see. The danger with black ice is that it is often not visible to drivers, and they may not realize they are driving on it until they start to lose control of their vehicle. This lack of awareness can lead to accidents and make black ice particularly dangerous.Rate this question:
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- 32.
When driving on black ice, the defensive driver should _____________.
- A.
Increase speed and decrease following distance
- B.
Decrease speed and increase following distance
- C.
Tune to the local radio station to learn what to do
- D.
Hit the brakes as often as possible
Correct Answer
B. Decrease speed and increase following distanceExplanation
When driving on black ice, the road becomes extremely slippery and dangerous. Therefore, the defensive driver should decrease their speed to maintain better control over their vehicle and reduce the risk of skidding or losing control. Additionally, increasing the following distance allows for more time to react to any sudden changes or obstacles on the road, reducing the chances of a collision. This combination of actions helps to ensure the safety of both the driver and other road users.Rate this question:
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- 33.
Ice tends to form first on bridges and overpasses because cold air circulates above and below the structures causing the temperature to drop more rapidly than on normal roads.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Ice tends to form first on bridges and overpasses because cold air circulates above and below the structures causing the temperature to drop more rapidly than on normal roads. This is because bridges and overpasses are elevated structures, allowing cold air to circulate around them, whereas normal roads are closer to the ground and have more insulation from the surrounding air. As a result, bridges and overpasses cool down faster, causing any moisture in the air to freeze and form ice more quickly than on normal roads.Rate this question:
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- 34.
Any moisture on the road surface of a bridge or overpass will freeze later and will be slushier than elsewhere on the road.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Moisture on the road surface of a bridge or overpass will not necessarily freeze later or be slushier than elsewhere on the road. This statement is false because the freezing and slushiness of the road surface depend on various factors such as temperature, humidity, and the condition of the road. While bridges and overpasses may freeze more quickly due to their elevated position, it is not always the case that they will be slushier than other areas of the road.Rate this question:
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- 35.
During snowy and icy weather, extreme caution and a reduction in speed should be used while traveling over bridges and overpasses.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
During snowy and icy weather, bridges and overpasses can become more slippery and dangerous than regular roads. The freezing temperatures can cause these structures to freeze faster and stay frozen for longer periods of time. As a result, it is important to exercise extreme caution and reduce speed while traveling over bridges and overpasses during such weather conditions. This is because the risk of losing control of the vehicle and getting into an accident is higher in these areas due to the increased likelihood of ice formation.Rate this question:
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- 36.
Which of the following statements are true? (Check all that apply.) •Remember it is far better to arrive late at an event or not at all, than to unnecessarily risk life, limb and property in very poor and dangerous travel conditions.
- A.
Whenever feasible, the employee should refrain from driving on school business when there are weather extremes.
- B.
Never reschedule travel for a different date when travel conditions are more favorable.
- C.
If the employee must travel in adverse weather, he/she needs to stay alert at all times, reduce speed, increase stopping distance, or pull off the road if necessary.
- D.
At all times, the driver must exercise his/her best judgment to make the correct decisions concerning staying or going and in operating a vehicle.
- E.
At all costs during dangerous driving conditions, risk life, limb and property in order to get to an event.
Correct Answer(s)
A. Whenever feasible, the employee should refrain from driving on school business when there are weather extremes.
C. If the employee must travel in adverse weather, he/she needs to stay alert at all times, reduce speed, increase stopping distance, or pull off the road if necessary.
D. At all times, the driver must exercise his/her best judgment to make the correct decisions concerning staying or going and in operating a vehicle.Explanation
The correct statements are that whenever feasible, the employee should refrain from driving on school business when there are weather extremes. If the employee must travel in adverse weather, he/she needs to stay alert at all times, reduce speed, increase stopping distance, or pull off the road if necessary. At all times, the driver must exercise his/her best judgment to make the correct decisions concerning staying or going and in operating a vehicle. These statements emphasize the importance of prioritizing safety and making responsible decisions when driving in poor weather conditions.Rate this question:
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- 37.
Before traveling in inclement weather conditions it is wise to check websites or other media to determine weather and road conditions.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
It is important to check weather and road conditions before traveling in inclement weather to ensure safety. By checking websites or other media sources, individuals can stay informed about any potential hazards or obstacles they may encounter on their journey. This proactive approach allows travelers to make informed decisions and take necessary precautions to avoid any potential risks associated with bad weather conditions.Rate this question:
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- 38.
The best defense of a defensive driver in any type of inclement weather condition is reducing speed and increasing following distance.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
In inclement weather conditions, reducing speed and increasing following distance is the best defense for a defensive driver. By reducing speed, the driver has better control over the vehicle and can react to sudden changes in road conditions. Increasing the following distance allows for more time to brake and avoid collisions if the vehicle in front suddenly stops. These measures help to mitigate the risks associated with inclement weather and increase the overall safety of the driver and other road users.Rate this question:
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- 39.
Always be prepared for the unexpected when driving in inclement weather.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
This statement is advising drivers to always be prepared for unexpected situations while driving in bad weather conditions. Inclement weather can create hazardous driving conditions, such as rain, snow, or fog, which can reduce visibility and make the roads slippery. Being prepared by checking weather forecasts, having appropriate tires, maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles, and being cautious can help minimize the risks associated with driving in inclement weather. Therefore, the statement is true.Rate this question:
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- 40.
The driver always has the ultimate responsibility of determining the correct speed and following distance when driving in extreme weather conditions.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The explanation for the given correct answer is that the driver is the one in control of the vehicle and is responsible for making decisions regarding speed and following distance. In extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain, snow, or fog, visibility and road conditions may be compromised, making it crucial for the driver to adjust their speed and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles. This ensures that they have enough time to react to any potential hazards and reduces the risk of accidents.Rate this question:
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Mar 19, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Oct 16, 2011Quiz Created by
Mark Gandolfi