Weather and Hazardous Conditions Flashcards

Rhode Island roads are often most slippery at what point during a rainstorm?

Answer: During the first few minutes of rain

The first minutes of rain mix with oil and dust on the pavement, creating an especially slick film.

Your vehicle's rear wheels begin to skid to the right on an icy road. Which way should you steer?

Answer: To the right, in the direction of the skid

Steering in the direction the rear of the vehicle is sliding helps bring the car back into line.

When must you use your headlights in Rhode Island due to weather conditions?

Answer: Whenever your windshield wipers are in use because of rain, snow, or fog

Rhode Island law requires headlights on whenever wipers are being used in poor weather.

You approach an intersection where the traffic signals are dark because of a storm power outage. How should you treat it?

Answer: As a four-way stop

A dark or malfunctioning signal must be treated as a stop sign for all approaching directions.

Which action helps prevent your vehicle from skidding on ice or packed snow?

Answer: Accelerate, turn, and brake gently and gradually

Smooth, gradual inputs keep the tires within their limited traction on slippery surfaces.

Why should you never use cruise control on wet, snowy, or icy roads?

Answer: It can cause the wheels to spin and the vehicle to lose control when traction is lost

Cruise control may keep applying power when tires lose grip, making a skid worse.

Strong crosswinds are most dangerous to which type of vehicle?

Answer: High-profile vehicles such as trucks, vans, and vehicles towing trailers

Tall vehicles with large side surfaces catch the wind and can be pushed out of their lane or tipped.