During inclement weather, what should you do differently while driving a heavy vehicle?

Increasing your following distance during inclement weather is essential for maintaining safety while driving a heavy vehicle. Adverse conditions such as rain, snow, or ice can significantly reduce traction, increase stopping distances, and lead to diminished visibility. By allowing for a larger gap between your vehicle and the one ahead, you give yourself more time to react to sudden stops, slides, or obstacles that may occur on the road.

This increased distance provides a buffer zone that can be crucial for safely navigating through challenging conditions. Heavy vehicles, being larger and heavier, require longer stopping distances compared to lighter vehicles, making it even more critical to adapt your driving practices in poor weather.

Driving at the maximum speed limit is not advisable during bad weather, as it does not account for the reduced traction and increased stopping distances required. Reducing the use of headlights can impair visibility, which is especially dangerous in unfavorable weather conditions. Lastly, utilizing cruise control in slick conditions could be hazardous because it may not react adequately to changes in traction, potentially leading to loss of control. Hence, increasing your following distance is the most responsible and safe approach when driving a heavy vehicle in inclement weather.