What should drivers do when they experience bad weather conditions?

Maintaining a safe distance and slowing down during bad weather conditions is essential for ensuring safety on the road. Adverse weather such as rain, snow, fog, or ice can significantly reduce visibility and road traction. By slowing down, drivers give themselves more time to react to any unforeseen circumstances and reduce the risk of losing control of the vehicle.

Maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle ahead is equally important. This allows for adequate reaction time, especially if the vehicle in front has to brake suddenly. In poor weather, stopping distances can be much longer due to reduced traction, so increasing the following distance helps to prevent collisions.

Other approaches such as ignoring speed limits, increasing speed to keep pace with traffic, or switching off headlights are counterproductive and dangerous. Speed limits are set for optimal conditions; when weather conditions worsen, they should be adapted to ensure safety. Driving faster than the conditions allow increases stopping distances and the likelihood of accidents. Similarly, turning off headlights can lead to decreased visibility, making it harder to see other vehicles and obstacles, which is particularly hazardous in low-visibility conditions.