ICBC British Columbia Written Exam Practice Test 2025

When driving under adverse weather conditions, what should you do?

1. Increase your speed

2. Reduce speed and increase following distance

3. Stay the same speed as normal

4. Swerve to avoid obstacles

The correct answer is: Reduce speed and increase following distance

When driving under adverse weather conditions, reducing speed and increasing your following distance is crucial for safety. Adverse conditions such as rain, snow, fog, or ice can significantly impair visibility and traction, making it more difficult to control the vehicle and respond to sudden changes in the road or traffic conditions. By reducing speed, you allow yourself more time to react to potential hazards, which can help prevent accidents. A slower speed also decreases the distance required for stopping your vehicle, which is especially important when road conditions are slick or visibility is compromised. Increasing your following distance gives you additional space to react if the vehicle in front of you suddenly stops or slows down. In normal conditions, a following distance of at least three seconds is recommended, but under adverse conditions, increasing this distance to four or more seconds is wise. This buffer provides extra time to brake safely and avoid collisions. Overall, adapting your speed and maintaining a greater distance from other vehicles promotes safer driving practices during challenging weather conditions. This approach aligns with defensive driving principles, prioritizing the safety of yourself, your passengers, and others on the road.