What should drivers do when encountering adverse weather conditions?

When drivers encounter adverse weather conditions, reducing speed and increasing following distance is crucial for maintaining control of the vehicle and ensuring safety. Adverse weather, such as rain, snow, fog, or ice, can significantly affect road traction and visibility. By slowing down, drivers allow themselves more time to react to unexpected hazards, such as slippery surfaces or stalled vehicles, which are more likely to occur in poor weather.

Increasing the following distance provides a buffer to account for longer stopping distances that result from wet or icy roads. This extra space not only helps prevent collisions but also gives drivers ample time to respond to sudden changes in traffic or road conditions.

In contrast, maintaining speed in poor weather can lead to skidding and loss of control, while driving fast to escape bad weather can create dangerous situations for both the driver and others on the road. Additionally, using only high beam headlights can impair visibility in fog or heavy rain, as the light can reflect off the precipitation, creating glare. Using low beams is often recommended in such situations for better visibility.