What is a safe practice to follow in adverse weather conditions?

Reducing speed and increasing following distance in adverse weather conditions is essential for safe driving. When weather conditions are poor, such as during rain, snow, fog, or ice, the road can become slippery and visibility can be significantly reduced. Lowering your speed allows for greater control of the vehicle and more time to react to potential hazards, such as other vehicles or obstacles in the roadway.

Increasing following distance is also crucial because it provides a larger buffer zone between your vehicle and the one in front of you. This extra space is necessary because stopping distances are longer in wet or slippery conditions. By maintaining a greater distance, you can brake more gently and avoid sudden stops, which could lead to skidding or collisions.

In contrast, adhering strictly to the posted speed limit without considering current road conditions can be hazardous, as it does not take into account the reduced traction and visibility that can come with poor weather. Utilizing high beams in conditions like fog or heavy rain can cause glare and further reduce visibility, making it harder to see and be seen. Lastly, while only driving when absolutely necessary may minimize risk, it is not a proactive driving strategy. The safer approach is to adapt driving behavior to the conditions, balancing safety with the need to travel.