Driving in Adverse Conditions Flashcards

What is the recommended following distance on a motorway in normal conditions?

Answer: At least 2 seconds — more in wet, icy, or foggy conditions

A minimum 2-second gap is recommended at motorway speeds in normal conditions. This should be extended to 4 seconds in wet conditions and much more in snow or fog.

What effect does driving through deep puddles at speed have on other road users?

Answer: It sprays water onto pedestrians and cyclists — an offence under careless driving laws

Driving through puddles and splashing pedestrians or cyclists is careless driving. It can also soak pedestrians, compromise a cyclist's control, and startle vulnerable road users.

How does wind affect a vehicle being overtaken by a large lorry on a motorway?

Answer: Creates a pressure change — the car is first pushed, then sucked towards the lorry — grip the wheel firmly

When a large lorry passes, the bow wave pushes the car sideways, followed by a suction that pulls it back. Grip the steering wheel firmly and maintain your course — do not over-correct.

What is the correct response if your vehicle loses traction on a snowy uphill slope?

Answer: Reverse back down carefully and take another run, or wait for conditions to improve

Spinning wheels on a snowy slope dig in and lose further traction. Reverse back down gently, then attempt the hill with more momentum or wait for conditions to improve or roads to be treated.

What is the danger of driving through autumn leaves on the road?

Answer: Wet leaves are as slippery as ice — reduce speed and brake gently

Wet leaves on the road create extremely low friction — comparable to ice. They are particularly dangerous on bends, approaching junctions, and when braking. Adjust your speed accordingly.

At night, what is the rule about using full beam headlights when following another vehicle?

Answer: Switch to dipped headlights — full beam dazzles the driver ahead via their rear-view mirror

When following another vehicle at night, always use dipped headlights. Full beam shines into the mirror of the vehicle ahead, dazzling the driver and potentially causing a serious accident.