What should you do if road conditions are poor due to rain or snow?

When road conditions are poor due to rain or snow, it is essential to adjust your driving behavior to ensure safety. Slowing down allows for better control of the vehicle on slippery surfaces, reducing the risk of skidding or losing traction. Increasing your following distance is equally important, as it provides more time to react to any sudden stops or changes in traffic conditions, which is critical when stopping distances are longer in adverse weather.

Driving at the speed limit is not always safe in poor conditions; speed limits are typically set for ideal driving scenarios. Switching to high beam headlights can actually reduce visibility in fog or heavy rain, as the light can reflect off of precipitation, creating a glare. Taking shortcuts to save time may lead you to unfamiliar or more challenging roads that could be even more hazardous in bad weather. Therefore, prioritizing slower speeds and greater distance from other vehicles is the best practice for maintaining safety on the road in such conditions.