Special Driving Conditions (Chapter 9)¶
TL;DR
Slow down, increase spacing, use appropriate lighting, and make gentle inputs; know skid basics and that bridges freeze first.
Scope¶
Adaptation strategies for night, rain, fog, snow/ice, and reduced traction events; skid recovery basics. Verify any recommended speed adjustments or chain/tire requirements in official guide.
Learning Objectives¶
- Adjust speed, spacing, and lighting for adverse conditions.
- Apply traction management in rain, snow, ice.
- Execute basic skid recovery (steering into direction of travel).
- Recognize early hazard indicators in reduced visibility.
1. Night Driving¶
- Increase following distance.
- Use high beams when appropriate; dim for oncoming traffic.
- Heighten peripheral scanning for pedestrians or animals.
2. Rain & Hydroplaning Risk¶
- Slow before standing water.
- Increase gap; gentle steering & braking.
- If hydroplaning: ease off accelerator, steer straight until traction returns.
3. Fog¶
- Use low beams (avoid high beam glare).
- Reduce speed; maintain larger cushion.
- Focus on road edge lines for guidance.
4. Snow & Ice¶
- Gentle inputs: accelerate/brake/steer smoothly.
- Increase following distance substantially.
- Bridges freeze first—approach cautiously.
5. Skid Basics¶
- Rear-wheel skid: Steer in direction you want front to go; avoid brakes until stability returns.
- Front-wheel skid: Ease off accelerator; steer where you want to go; allow tires to regain grip.
Quick Self-Check¶
- Why low beams in fog?
- Hydroplaning response?
- Bridge surface hazard in winter?
Proceed to quiz.
3 things to remember¶
- Use low beams in fog; high beams cause glare.
- If hydroplaning: ease off accelerator and steer straight until traction returns.
- Snow/ice: gentle inputs and much larger following distances; bridges freeze first.