RI DMV Weather and Hazardous Conditions 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Rhode Island roads are often most slippery at what point during a rainstorm?
- During the first few minutes of rain (Correct answer)
- After it has rained for over an hour
- Only after the rain has stopped
- During the heaviest downpour
Correct 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.
Question 2: Your vehicle's rear wheels begin to skid to the right on an icy road. Which way should you steer?
- To the right, in the direction of the skid (Correct answer)
- To the left, away from the skid
- Straight ahead while braking hard
- It does not matter as long as you brake
Correct 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.
Question 3: When must you use your headlights in Rhode Island due to weather conditions?
- Whenever your windshield wipers are in use because of rain, snow, or fog (Correct answer)
- Only after sunset regardless of weather
- Only when visibility drops below one mile
- Only when other drivers flash their lights at you
Correct 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.
Question 4: You approach an intersection where the traffic signals are dark because of a storm power outage. How should you treat it?
- As a four-way stop (Correct answer)
- As if you have the right-of-way
- As a yield sign for cross traffic only
- Drive through without slowing if the road looks clear
Correct answer: As a four-way stop
A dark or malfunctioning signal must be treated as a stop sign for all approaching directions.
Question 5: Which action helps prevent your vehicle from skidding on ice or packed snow?
- Accelerate, turn, and brake gently and gradually (Correct answer)
- Pump the gas pedal to keep the wheels spinning
- Brake firmly before every curve
- Use cruise control to keep a steady speed
Correct answer: Accelerate, turn, and brake gently and gradually
Smooth, gradual inputs keep the tires within their limited traction on slippery surfaces.
Question 6: Why should you never use cruise control on wet, snowy, or icy roads?
- It can cause the wheels to spin and the vehicle to lose control when traction is lost (Correct answer)
- It wears out the brakes faster in the rain
- It automatically increases speed downhill
- It disables the antilock braking system
Correct 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.
Question 7: Strong crosswinds are most dangerous to which type of vehicle?
- High-profile vehicles such as trucks, vans, and vehicles towing trailers (Correct answer)
- Low sports cars
- Compact sedans
- Motorcycles parked at the curb
Correct 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.
RI DMV Weather and Hazardous Conditions 3
Rhode Island roads are often most slippery at what point during a rainstorm?