Driving in Adverse Conditions Flashcards

When approaching a flooded roadway of unknown depth, you should:

Answer: Turn around and find an alternate route

Floodwater depth is impossible to judge accurately and even shallow moving water can sweep a vehicle off the road.

Which of the following is TRUE about driving in very hot weather?

Answer: Tire blowouts are more likely due to increased air pressure and heat expansion

High temperatures cause tire air to expand and can weaken the rubber, increasing the risk of a blowout.

When driving in heavy rain at night, which additional hazard is most significant?

Answer: Headlights reflect off wet pavement, creating glare that reduces visibility

Wet pavement at night reflects headlights from oncoming vehicles, creating strong glare that impairs a driver's vision.

If you experience a sudden tire blowout while driving, you should:

Answer: Hold the steering wheel firmly, ease off the gas, and steer to a safe stop

Maintaining steering control and decelerating gradually prevents a dangerous spin or rollover after a blowout.

Why should you avoid sudden lane changes on wet roads?

Answer: Sudden steering inputs on wet roads can cause a skid or loss of control

Abrupt steering inputs on low-traction wet surfaces can overwhelm tire grip and cause the vehicle to slide.

Driving through smoke from a wildfire, you should:

Answer: Reduce speed, close windows, set ventilation to recirculate, and pull off if visibility is too low

Closing windows and using recirculated air reduces smoke inhalation, and slowing down compensates for reduced visibility.

What precaution should you take before driving in winter storm conditions?

Answer: Ensure your vehicle has sufficient fuel, working wipers, proper antifreeze, and an emergency kit

A pre-trip check covering fuel, wipers, antifreeze, and an emergency kit ensures you are prepared if you become stranded.