WVSDB Defensive Driving In Inclement Weather 2013
A quiz which tests individual's knowledge of safe driving during inclement weather conditions.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
If a driver absolutely must continue driving during inclement weather conditions the best defenses are as follows: _____________.
- A.
Speeding up and decreasing following distance
- B.
Paying less attention to the road and weather conditions
- C.
Slowing down and increasing following distance
Correct Answer
C. Slowing down and increasing following distanceExplanation
Slowing down and increasing following distance are the best defenses when driving during inclement weather conditions. This is because reducing speed allows the driver to have more control over the vehicle and react to any sudden changes in road conditions. Increasing the following distance provides a buffer zone in case the vehicle ahead suddenly brakes or loses control. These actions help to minimize the risk of accidents and allow the driver to navigate safely through the adverse weather conditions.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Bad weather and other road hazards don't place special stress upon a defensive driver.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Defensive drivers are trained to anticipate and respond to various road hazards, including bad weather conditions. These hazards can increase the risk of accidents and require defensive drivers to adjust their speed, maintain a safe following distance, and use appropriate signals. Therefore, bad weather and other road hazards do place special stress upon a defensive driver, making the statement false.Rate this question:
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- 3.
The best rule in any kind of bad weather or extreme road condition is to get off the road safely and as soon as possible.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
In bad weather or extreme road conditions, it is safest to get off the road as soon as possible. This is because driving in such conditions can increase the risk of accidents due to reduced visibility, slippery roads, or other hazards. Getting off the road allows drivers to find a safe place to wait until the weather or road conditions improve, reducing the likelihood of accidents and ensuring the safety of both the driver and other road users.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Fog reduces available visibility and impairs distance perception, making it perhaps the most dangerous type of extreme weather condition.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Fog is indeed a dangerous type of extreme weather condition because it reduces visibility and impairs distance perception. This means that it becomes difficult to see objects or other vehicles on the road, increasing the risk of accidents. The lack of visibility also makes it challenging to judge distances accurately, making it harder to react in time to potential hazards. Therefore, it is true that fog can be the most dangerous type of extreme weather condition.Rate this question:
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- 5.
The best defense when forced to drive in fog is to pull off the road and park safely until the fog dissipates or is burned off, if at all possible.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The best defense when forced to drive in fog is to pull off the road and park safely until the fog dissipates or is burned off, if at all possible. This is the correct answer because driving in fog can significantly reduce visibility, making it difficult to see other vehicles, road signs, and hazards. Pulling off the road and waiting for the fog to clear is the safest option to avoid accidents or getting lost. It is important to prioritize safety and avoid driving in hazardous conditions like dense fog.Rate this question:
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- 6.
If you must drive in fog you should do the following: ________________________________.
- A.
Use high beam headlights only
- B.
Use low beam headlights only
- C.
Speed up
- D.
Assume the fog is not that heavy or thick
Correct Answer
B. Use low beam headlights onlyExplanation
When driving in fog, it is recommended to use low beam headlights only. This is because high beam headlights can reflect off the fog and create a glare, making it even more difficult to see. Low beam headlights, on the other hand, provide a shorter and wider beam of light that helps to illuminate the road directly in front of the vehicle, making it easier to navigate through the foggy conditions.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Low beam headlights are used when driving in the fog because ______________________.
- A.
They help the driver see the immediate roadway.
- B.
They are less likely to drain the car's battery power.
- C.
They allow other drivers to see the motorist's vehicle.
- D.
A, b and c
- E.
A and c
Correct Answer
E. A and cExplanation
Low beam headlights are used when driving in the fog because they help the driver see the immediate roadway and they allow other drivers to see the motorist's vehicle.Rate this question:
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- 8.
A defensive driver should always assume the depth or thickness of fog.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
A defensive driver should not assume the depth or thickness of fog because fog conditions can vary greatly and change rapidly. Instead, a defensive driver should adjust their driving behavior and take necessary precautions such as reducing speed, increasing following distance, and using headlights and fog lights to enhance visibility. Assuming the depth or thickness of fog can lead to overconfidence and increase the risk of accidents. Therefore, the statement is false.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Determining a correct and safe speed depends on the thickness of the fog and is left to the driver’s best judgment.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The statement suggests that the determination of a correct and safe speed in foggy conditions is subjective and relies on the driver's own judgment. There are no specific guidelines or regulations for determining the appropriate speed in fog, as it varies depending on the thickness of the fog. Therefore, the statement is true as it highlights the driver's responsibility in making a judgment call based on their perception of the fog conditions.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Avoid the use of high-beam headlights while driving in fog. The water particles that make up fog will reflect more light back at the driver than onto the roadway when high beams are used, and will further reduce visibility.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Using high-beam headlights while driving in fog is not recommended because the water particles in the fog will reflect more light back at the driver, reducing visibility. This can make it difficult to see the roadway and other vehicles, increasing the risk of accidents. Therefore, it is true that avoiding the use of high-beam headlights in foggy conditions is advisable.Rate this question:
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- 11.
When driving in fog, which of the following actions should the defensive driver take? (Check all that apply.)
- A.
Use windshield wipers and defroster to clear windshield of water mist.
- B.
As a matter of routine stop on the traveled roadway when driving in foggy conditions.
- C.
Activate emergency flashers and turn off headlights,if fog forces you to stop on the side of the road or in the emergency or breakdown lane.
Correct Answer(s)
A. Use windshield wipers and defroster to clear windshield of water mist.
C. Activate emergency flashers and turn off headlights,if fog forces you to stop on the side of the road or in the emergency or breakdown lane.Explanation
When driving in fog, a defensive driver should use windshield wipers and defroster to clear the windshield of water mist. This is important to maintain visibility and ensure a clear view of the road ahead. Additionally, if fog forces the driver to stop on the side of the road or in the emergency or breakdown lane, they should activate emergency flashers and turn off headlights. This helps to alert other drivers of their presence and prevent accidents.Rate this question:
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- 12.
When rain first begins, the road becomes covered with a thin layer of oil and other residues which causes the road to become slippery.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
When rain first begins, the road surface accumulates a thin layer of oil and other residues, such as dust and dirt, which have built up over time. This mixture creates a slippery surface on the road, making it more dangerous for vehicles to drive on. Therefore, it is true that when rain first begins, the road becomes covered with a thin layer of oil and other residues, causing it to become slippery.Rate this question:
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- 13.
How long does it take for rain to break down the slippery oils on a roadway?
- A.
Less than a minute
- B.
From a few minutes to several hours
- C.
No time at all
- D.
30 minutes
Correct Answer
B. From a few minutes to several hoursExplanation
The time it takes for rain to break down the slippery oils on a roadway can vary from a few minutes to several hours. This is because the rate at which the oils are broken down depends on various factors such as the intensity of the rain, the type and amount of oil present on the roadway, and the temperature. In some cases, a light rain shower may be enough to wash away the oils quickly, while in other cases, it may take longer for the rain to effectively break down and remove the oils from the surface of the road.Rate this question:
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- 14.
A condition that happens when a thin layer of water separates the vehicle's tires from the road surface is called _____.
- A.
Waterboarding
- B.
Jet skiing
- C.
Hydroplaning
- D.
Sliding
Correct Answer
C. HydroplaningExplanation
Hydroplaning is a condition that occurs when a thin layer of water builds up between the tires of a vehicle and the road surface, causing the tires to lose contact with the road. This can result in a loss of control and traction, making it difficult for the driver to steer or brake effectively.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Which statement below is false?
- A.
A hydroplaning vehicle is riding on water.
- B.
When tires ride on water, they lose all traction and create a very dangerous situation.
- C.
The slower a vehicle travels on standing water, the greater the chance of hydroplaning.
- D.
Reducing speed is the best and safest way to avoid hydroplaning.
Correct Answer
C. The slower a vehicle travels on standing water, the greater the chance of hydroplaning.Explanation
Hydroplaning occurs when the tires of a vehicle ride on a layer of water, causing a loss of traction. The statement that the slower a vehicle travels on standing water, the greater the chance of hydroplaning is false. In fact, reducing speed is the best and safest way to avoid hydroplaning as it allows the tires to maintain better contact with the road surface and reduces the risk of losing traction.Rate this question:
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- 16.
When driving in the rain, a defensive driver should ____________________. (Check all that apply.)
- A.
Reduce speed to avoid becoming a hazard for other drivers and to avoid hydroplaning.
- B.
Determine the correct and safe speed depending upon the weather conditions.
- C.
Decrease following distance.
- D.
Allow for greater stopping distance if need to stop arises.
- E.
Use windshield wipers and defroster.
- F.
Pass other vehicles if opportunity arises.
- G.
Follow other vehicles from a safe distance.
- H.
Drive in "tracks" left by vehicles ahead of you to provide best possible traction.
Correct Answer(s)
A. Reduce speed to avoid becoming a hazard for other drivers and to avoid hydroplaning.
B. Determine the correct and safe speed depending upon the weather conditions.
D. Allow for greater stopping distance if need to stop arises.
E. Use windshield wipers and defroster.
G. Follow other vehicles from a safe distance.
H. Drive in "tracks" left by vehicles ahead of you to provide best possible traction.Explanation
When driving in the rain, a defensive driver should reduce speed to avoid becoming a hazard for other drivers and to avoid hydroplaning. They should also determine the correct and safe speed depending upon the weather conditions. Additionally, they should allow for greater stopping distance if the need to stop arises, use windshield wipers and defroster, follow other vehicles from a safe distance, and drive in "tracks" left by vehicles ahead of them to provide the best possible traction.Rate this question:
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- 17.
The defensive driver use his/her best judgment to determine a safe speed and following distance when driving in light, powdery snow.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The statement is true because when driving in light, powdery snow, it is important for a defensive driver to use their best judgment to determine a safe speed and following distance. Light, powdery snow can reduce traction and make the road slippery, so it is crucial to adjust speed accordingly to maintain control of the vehicle. Additionally, a safe following distance should be maintained to allow for enough time to stop or maneuver in case of any sudden changes on the road.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Who is always responsible for determining the correct speed and safe following distance?
- A.
Highway workers
- B.
Police
- C.
The driver himself
- D.
Other drivers
Correct Answer
C. The driver himselfExplanation
The driver himself is always responsible for determining the correct speed and safe following distance. This is because the driver is in control of the vehicle and has the best understanding of the road conditions, traffic, and their own capabilities as a driver. It is the driver's duty to assess these factors and adjust their speed and following distance accordingly to ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Heavy, slushy snow doesn't affect vehicle control.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Heavy, slushy snow can significantly affect vehicle control. The weight and wetness of the snow can make the roads slippery and reduce traction, making it more difficult to steer, brake, and accelerate. This can increase the risk of accidents and make it harder for drivers to maintain control of their vehicles. Therefore, the statement that heavy, slushy snow doesn't affect vehicle control is false.Rate this question:
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- 20.
If snow becomes hard packed it can cause an ice hazard on the road surface.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
When snow becomes hard packed, it means that it has been compressed and compacted, resulting in a dense and solid surface. This hard packed snow can create an ice hazard on the road surface because it becomes slippery and difficult to grip. Vehicles may lose traction and have difficulty maintaining control, leading to accidents or skidding. Therefore, the statement "If snow becomes hard packed it can cause an ice hazard on the road surface" is true.Rate this question:
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- 21.
When driving in snow, the defensive driver should__________________.
- A.
Slow down and increase following distance.
- B.
Speed up and decrease following distance.
- C.
Use high beam headlights.
Correct Answer
A. Slow down and increase following distance.Explanation
When driving in snow, it is important for the defensive driver to slow down and increase their following distance. This is because driving at a slower speed allows for better control and increases the driver's ability to react to any unexpected situations that may arise on slippery roads. Increasing the following distance provides more time to stop or maneuver in case the vehicle in front suddenly brakes or skids. Both of these actions help to ensure the safety of the driver and others on the road during snowy conditions.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Falling or blowing snow can greatly reduce visibility and make it hard to see the road, road markings, road signs, and off ramps.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Falling or blowing snow can reduce visibility on the road, making it difficult to see important elements such as the road itself, road markings, road signs, and off ramps. This can pose a significant risk to drivers as it impairs their ability to navigate safely. Therefore, the statement that falling or blowing snow can greatly reduce visibility is true.Rate this question:
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- 23.
As with driving in foggy conditions, the use of high-beam “shooting” light will reflect off falling and blowing snow and reflect back at the driver, further reducing visibility.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The use of high-beam lights in foggy conditions reflects off falling and blowing snow, reducing visibility for the driver. This is because the light is scattered by the snow particles and reflects back towards the driver, making it difficult to see the road ahead. Therefore, the statement is true.Rate this question:
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- 24.
When driving in snow, all slow maneuvers such as starting out, steering, backing and turning should be done smoothly and with extreme care to minimize skids and slides.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
When driving in snow, it is important to perform all slow maneuvers smoothly and with extreme care to minimize skids and slides. This is because snow can significantly reduce traction, making it easier for the vehicle to lose control. By performing slow maneuvers smoothly and with care, the driver can minimize the chances of skidding or sliding on the slippery surface. Therefore, the statement "all slow maneuvers such as starting out, steering, backing, and turning should be done smoothly and with extreme care to minimize skids and slides" is true.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Snow hypnosis occurs when a driver is traveling directly into heavy snow and begins to focus on the falling snow instead of the road ahead.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Snow hypnosis occurs when a driver becomes mesmerized by the falling snow while driving, causing them to lose focus on the road ahead. This can lead to dangerous situations as the driver's attention is diverted from potential hazards on the road. It is important for drivers to remain alert and focused while driving in heavy snow to ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road.Rate this question:
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- 26.
At what time of day is snow hypnosis most likely to occur?
- A.
8 AM
- B.
Noon
- C.
3 PM
- D.
Midnight
Correct Answer
D. MidnightExplanation
Snow hypnosis is most likely to occur at midnight because at this time, the temperature is usually lower, and the atmosphere is calmer and quieter. The absence of daylight and the stillness of the night contribute to a serene and peaceful environment, which can enhance the hypnotic effect of snowfall. Additionally, the darkness of the night allows for better visibility of the snowflakes, making them more mesmerizing and captivating.Rate this question:
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- 27.
It is more important to reduce speed than to increase following distance when driving in ice.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Increasing following distance is more important than reducing speed when driving in ice. This is because ice reduces traction, making it harder to stop or maneuver the vehicle. By increasing the following distance, there is more time and space to react to any sudden changes or hazards on the road. Slowing down alone may not be enough to prevent accidents in icy conditions, as it may still be difficult to stop in time. Therefore, the statement that reducing speed is more important than increasing following distance in ice is false.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Changes in road surface conditions may affect the vehicle's traction when driving in ice.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Changes in road surface conditions, such as ice, can have a significant impact on a vehicle's traction. When driving on ice, the road surface becomes slippery, reducing the friction between the tires and the road. This lack of traction can cause the vehicle to lose control, making it difficult to steer, brake, or accelerate properly. Therefore, it is important for drivers to be aware of these changes and adjust their driving accordingly to ensure their safety on icy roads.Rate this question:
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- 29.
•Depending on the temperature and road conditions, stopping distance (the distance needed to come to a complete stop) on icy roads can increase __________________versus stopping from the same speed on a dry road.
- A.
Two to three times
- B.
Three to five times
- C.
Four to six times
- D.
Four to ten times
Correct Answer
D. Four to ten times -
- 30.
Black ice forms when temperatures drop rapidly and any moisture on the road surface freezes into a smooth, almost transparent layer of ice.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Black ice is a real phenomenon that occurs when moisture on the road freezes quickly, creating a thin layer of ice that is difficult to see. It is called "black ice" because it blends in with the color of the road and appears almost transparent. This can be extremely dangerous for drivers as it reduces traction and increases the risk of accidents. Therefore, the statement "Black ice forms when temperatures drop rapidly and any moisture on the road surface freezes into a smooth, almost transparent layer of ice" is true.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Black ice is particularly dangerous as the driver may not realize he/she is on it until it is too late.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Black ice is a thin and transparent layer of ice that forms on the road surface, making it extremely slippery and difficult to detect. It often appears black because it takes on the color of the underlying pavement. Due to its transparency, drivers may not be able to see black ice, especially at night or in low light conditions. This lack of visibility combined with the sudden loss of traction can catch drivers off guard, causing them to lose control of their vehicle. Therefore, it is true that black ice is particularly dangerous as drivers may not realize they are on it until it is too late.Rate this question:
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- 32.
When driving on black ice, the defensive driver should _____________.
- A.
Increase speed and decrease following distance
- B.
Decrease speed and increase following distance
- C.
Tune to the local radio station to learn what to do
- D.
Hit the brakes as often as possible
Correct Answer
B. Decrease speed and increase following distanceExplanation
When driving on black ice, it is important for the defensive driver to decrease their speed and increase their following distance. Black ice is a thin, transparent layer of ice on the road surface that is difficult to see, making it extremely slippery. By reducing speed, the driver can maintain better control of their vehicle and reduce the risk of skidding or losing control. Increasing the following distance allows for more time to react to any sudden changes or obstacles on the road. This combination of actions helps to ensure the safety of both the driver and other vehicles on the road.Rate this question:
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- 33.
Ice tends to form first on bridges and overpasses because cold air circulates above and below the structures causing the temperature to drop more rapidly than on normal roads.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Ice tends to form first on bridges and overpasses because cold air circulates above and below the structures causing the temperature to drop more rapidly than on normal roads. This is true because bridges and overpasses are elevated structures that are exposed to cold air from all sides, including above and below. This allows for more rapid cooling and the formation of ice. In contrast, normal roads are typically surrounded by warmer ground, which can help to insulate them and prevent ice formation. Therefore, it is more likely to find ice on bridges and overpasses compared to regular roads.Rate this question:
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- 34.
Any moisture on the road surface of a bridge or overpass will freeze later and will be slushier than elsewhere on the road.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Moisture on the road surface of a bridge or overpass will freeze earlier and be icier than elsewhere on the road, not slushier. Slush is formed when ice melts and mixes with water, creating a wet and slushy texture. However, in the given statement, it is stated that the moisture will freeze later, indicating that it will turn into ice rather than slush. Therefore, the correct answer is False.Rate this question:
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- 35.
During snowy and icy weather, extreme caution and a reduction in speed should be used while traveling over bridges and overpasses.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
During snowy and icy weather, bridges and overpasses tend to freeze faster and stay icy longer than regular roads due to the lack of insulation from the ground. This increases the risk of accidents and loss of control. Therefore, it is important to exercise extreme caution and reduce speed while traveling over bridges and overpasses during such weather conditions.Rate this question:
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- 36.
Which of the following statements are true? (Check all that apply.) •Remember it is far better to arrive late at an event or not at all, than to unnecessarily risk life, limb and property in very poor and dangerous travel conditions.
- A.
Whenever feasible, the employee should refrain from driving on school business when there are weather extremes.
- B.
Never reschedule travel for a different date when travel conditions are more favorable.
- C.
If the employee must travel in adverse weather, he/she needs to stay alert at all times, reduce speed, increase stopping distance, or pull off the road if necessary.
- D.
At all times, the driver must exercise his/her best judgment to make the correct decisions concerning staying or going and in operating a vehicle.
- E.
At all costs during dangerous driving conditions, risk life, limb and property in order to get to an event.
Correct Answer(s)
A. Whenever feasible, the employee should refrain from driving on school business when there are weather extremes.
C. If the employee must travel in adverse weather, he/she needs to stay alert at all times, reduce speed, increase stopping distance, or pull off the road if necessary.
D. At all times, the driver must exercise his/her best judgment to make the correct decisions concerning staying or going and in operating a vehicle.Explanation
The correct statements are: Whenever feasible, the employee should refrain from driving on school business when there are weather extremes. If the employee must travel in adverse weather, he/she needs to stay alert at all times, reduce speed, increase stopping distance, or pull off the road if necessary. At all times, the driver must exercise his/her best judgment to make the correct decisions concerning staying or going and in operating a vehicle. This means that employees should avoid driving in extreme weather conditions whenever possible, but if they have to, they should take necessary precautions and make informed decisions while driving.Rate this question:
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- 37.
Before traveling in inclement weather conditions it is wise to check websites or other media to determine weather and road conditions.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
It is important to check weather and road conditions before traveling in inclement weather to ensure safety and make informed decisions. By checking websites or other media sources, individuals can gather information about any potential hazards or disruptions that may affect their journey. This allows them to plan accordingly, take necessary precautions, and avoid unnecessary risks. Therefore, the statement is true.Rate this question:
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- 38.
The best defense of a defensive driver in any type of inclement weather condition is reducing speed and increasing following distance.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
In inclement weather conditions, reducing speed and increasing following distance are effective defensive driving techniques. By reducing speed, the driver has more control over the vehicle and can react quickly to any potential hazards. Increasing following distance allows for more time to brake and avoid collisions in case of sudden stops. These actions help to minimize the risk of accidents and ensure the safety of both the driver and other road users. Therefore, the statement "The best defense of a defensive driver in any type of inclement weather condition is reducing speed and increasing following distance" is true.Rate this question:
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- 39.
Always be prepared for the unexpected when driving in inclement weather.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
It is important to always be prepared for the unexpected when driving in inclement weather because adverse weather conditions can create hazardous driving conditions. This includes having the necessary equipment in the vehicle such as snow chains or an emergency kit, as well as adjusting driving habits to account for reduced visibility or slippery roads. Being prepared can help minimize the risk of accidents and ensure the safety of both the driver and others on the road.Rate this question:
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- 40.
The driver always has the ultimate responsibility of determining the correct speed and following distance when driving in extreme weather conditions.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The explanation for the given correct answer is that the driver is the one in control of the vehicle and is responsible for making decisions regarding speed and following distance. In extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain, snow, or fog, it is crucial for the driver to adjust their speed and maintain a safe following distance to ensure they can react to any potential hazards on the road. Therefore, it is true that the driver always has the ultimate responsibility in determining the correct speed and following distance in extreme weather conditions.Rate this question:
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Mar 21, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Mar 04, 2013Quiz Created by
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