MO DMV Weather and Hazardous Conditions 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Roads are often most slippery during the first few minutes of rainfall because:
- Rain mixes with oil and dust on the pavement before washing it away (Correct answer)
- The rain is colder at the start of a storm
- Tires are still warm from dry driving
- Rain falls faster at the beginning of a storm
Correct answer: Rain mixes with oil and dust on the pavement before washing it away
Oil and dirt that built up on the road mix with fresh rain to create a slick film until heavier rain washes it away.
Question 2: If your rear wheels begin to skid on a slippery road, you should steer:
- In the direction you want the front of the vehicle to go (Correct answer)
- Opposite the direction of the skid at all times
- Straight ahead and brake hard
- Toward the center line
Correct answer: In the direction you want the front of the vehicle to go
Steering in the direction you want to go helps the rear wheels realign with the front and stops the skid.
Question 3: When driving in strong crosswinds, such as on open highways or bridges, you should:
- Slow down and keep a firm grip on the steering wheel (Correct answer)
- Increase speed to improve stability
- Drive close to large trucks for a windbreak
- Steer with one hand to make corrections easier
Correct answer: Slow down and keep a firm grip on the steering wheel
Reducing speed and holding the wheel firmly gives you better control when wind gusts push the vehicle.
Question 4: What should you do if you encounter a flooded section of roadway?
- Turn around and find another route (Correct answer)
- Cross slowly if the water looks shallow
- Cross quickly to avoid stalling
- Follow the vehicle ahead through the water
Correct answer: Turn around and find another route
Even shallow moving water can sweep a vehicle away or hide washed-out pavement, so you should never drive through it.
Question 5: In winter driving, gentle braking is recommended on ice because hard braking can:
- Lock the wheels and cause you to lose steering control (Correct answer)
- Wear out the brake pads quickly
- Overheat the tires
- Damage the anti-lock brake fuse
Correct answer: Lock the wheels and cause you to lose steering control
Locked wheels slide instead of rolling, which eliminates your ability to steer on slick surfaces.
Question 6: If you have anti-lock brakes (ABS) and must stop quickly on a slippery road, you should:
- Press the brake pedal firmly and hold it down (Correct answer)
- Pump the brake pedal rapidly
- Tap the brakes lightly and release
- Shift to neutral before braking
Correct answer: Press the brake pedal firmly and hold it down
ABS automatically prevents wheel lockup, so firm, continuous pressure is the correct technique.
Question 7: During hot summer weather, what hazard can develop on asphalt roads?
- The pavement can become soft and bleed oil, making it slippery (Correct answer)
- The road becomes rougher and grips better
- Tire pressure drops sharply
- Asphalt turns lighter and reflects less heat
Correct answer: The pavement can become soft and bleed oil, making it slippery
Extreme heat can soften asphalt and draw oil to the surface, reducing tire traction.
MO DMV Weather and Hazardous Conditions 3
Roads are often most slippery during the first few minutes of rainfall because: