Driving in Adverse Conditions Flashcards

What is the safest speed to drive in heavy snow on an open road?

Answer: As slow as necessary to maintain full control — there is no specific safe speed in snow

In heavy snow, there is no specific safe speed — you must drive as slowly as conditions demand to maintain full control. Heavy snow can make roads impassable regardless of speed.

What are the signs of approaching freezing fog?

Answer: Ice crystals forming on windscreen, bonnet, and surrounding vegetation while fog is present

Freezing fog occurs when fog droplets freeze on contact with surfaces. Signs include ice crystals on the windscreen and vegetation, and the presence of fog when temperatures are at or below 0°C.

How should you drive in dense fog on a single carriageway road?

Answer: Drive slowly enough to stop within the visible distance, use dipped headlights and rear fog lights, and listen for oncoming traffic

In dense fog, drive no faster than your stopping distance within visible range. Use dipped headlights and rear fog lights. In extremely dense fog, open the window and listen for approaching traffic before passing blind junctions.

What precaution is essential when parking on a hill in icy conditions?

Answer: Apply the handbrake firmly, leave the car in gear (or Park for automatics), and turn the wheels toward the kerb

On an icy slope, a failing handbrake could allow the car to roll. Leaving it in gear (first or reverse) adds resistance, and turning wheels toward the kerb means the kerb stops the car if it does roll.

What is the effect of driving through a large puddle at speed on the brakes?

Answer: Water can wet the brakes, reducing braking efficiency — test brakes gently after passing through water

Driving through deep water can wet brake discs and pads, temporarily reducing stopping power. After exiting, apply the brakes gently and repeatedly to generate heat and dry them out.

How does towing a trailer or caravan affect your driving in adverse conditions?

Answer: It worsens handling and braking — greater care, lower speeds, and much larger following distances are needed

Towing in adverse conditions significantly increases stopping distances, reduces manoeuvrability, and introduces snaking risk. Speed must be reduced much more than for a solo vehicle.