Adverse Weather and Road Conditions Flashcards

Under GDL rules, what is the recommended action for a new driver when it begins to rain heavily?

Answer: Reduce speed and increase following distance

Rain reduces tire traction and visibility, so new drivers should reduce speed and increase following distance to allow more stopping time.

When driving on a wet road, a new GDL driver should increase their following distance to at least how many seconds?

Answer: 4–5 seconds

On wet roads, braking distances increase significantly, so a following distance of at least 4–5 seconds is recommended for new drivers.

What is hydroplaning?

Answer: A vehicle sliding on a thin layer of water on the road surface

Hydroplaning occurs when tires ride on a layer of water rather than the road surface, causing loss of steering control.

If a GDL permit holder begins to hydroplane, what should they do?

Answer: Ease off the gas and steer straight until traction returns

Easing off the accelerator and steering straight allows the tires to regain contact with the road without causing a spin.

When driving in fog, a new driver should use:

Answer: Low-beam headlights or fog lights

Low-beam headlights or dedicated fog lights aim downward and reduce glare, improving visibility in foggy conditions.

A GDL driver encounters black ice on a bridge. What is the safest action?

Answer: Release the gas pedal gently and avoid sudden inputs

On black ice, sudden braking or steering can trigger a spin; the safest action is to reduce speed gradually with no abrupt inputs.

In which situation should a GDL driver consider pulling over and waiting rather than continuing to drive?

Answer: Whiteout snow conditions with near-zero visibility

Whiteout conditions make it impossible to see road markings or other vehicles, making driving extremely dangerous for any driver, especially inexperienced GDL holders.