RI DMV Defensive Driving Techniques 3

Question 1

You are driving on I-95 in heavy rain and your car begins to hydroplane. What should you do?

Accepted Answer

Ease off the accelerator and steer straight until traction returns

Answer

Easing off the gas and keeping the wheel steady lets the tires regain contact, while braking or sharp steering can cause a skid.

Question 2

How should you adjust your following distance when driving in rain, fog, or snow?

Accepted Answer

Increase it well beyond the normal 3-4 seconds

Answer

Slick roads and reduced visibility lengthen stopping distances, so you need more time and space to react.

Question 3

Another driver cuts you off and makes an obscene gesture. What is the best defensive response?

Accepted Answer

Stay calm, increase your distance, and avoid eye contact

Answer

Refusing to engage and creating distance defuses road rage situations before they escalate.

Question 4

What is the primary purpose of checking your mirrors every 5-8 seconds?

Accepted Answer

To stay constantly aware of traffic around and behind you

Answer

Frequent mirror checks keep your mental picture of surrounding traffic current so nothing surprises you.

Question 5

Before changing lanes, a defensive driver should signal, check mirrors, and then do what?

Accepted Answer

Glance over their shoulder to check the blind spot

Answer

Mirrors leave blind spots on both sides, so a shoulder check is the only way to confirm the lane is clear.

(RI DMV) Rhode Island Department of Motor Vehicle Practice Test