How should you maintain adequate stopping distance in adverse weather conditions?

Maintaining adequate stopping distance in adverse weather conditions is crucial for ensuring safety on the road. By increasing following distance, the driver allows for more time to react to changes in traffic and road conditions. Adverse weather, such as rain, snow, or ice, can significantly impact vehicle handling and stopping capability.

When road surfaces are slippery, it takes longer to stop, meaning that a longer following distance is necessary to provide enough time to brake without risking a collision. This increased distance gives the driver a buffer against sudden stops from vehicles ahead and helps in managing the vehicle’s stability on slick surfaces.

Furthermore, in adverse weather conditions, visibility is often reduced, making it harder to see ahead and assess distances accurately. A greater following distance compensates for these challenges, offering the driver additional time to make decisions and respond to unexpected events, such as a vehicle losing control or an obstacle appearing on the road.