Lesson 5: Driving in Adverse Conditions

Title: Driving in Adverse Conditions
Type: Lesson

Weather and Road Conditions Can Change Everything

Even the best drivers need to adjust when the environment changes. Defensive drivers know how to recognize risk — and slow down or stop when conditions are unsafe.

Common Adverse Conditions

 Rain

• Reduces traction, especially in the first 10 minutes

• Increases stopping distance

• Risk of hydroplaning if tires lose contact with the road
   Slow down and avoid sharp turns or sudden stops

Fog

• Reduces visibility dramatically

• Headlights should be low beam, not high

• Use fog lights if available
  Increase following distance and avoid passing

Snow & Ice

• Extremely low traction

• Black ice is hard to see and very slippery

• Braking distances can double or triple
  Slow turns, gentle braking, and early lane changes

High Winds

• Can affect steering control, especially for large vehicles

• May blow debris or other vehicles into your lane
   Keep both hands on the wheel and reduce speed

Other Hazards

• Glare from sun or wet pavement

• Flooded roads — never drive through standing water

• Night driving — reduced depth perception and more fatigue

• Dust storms, smoke, or heavy pollen — reduce visibility and may trigger respiratory issues

General Safety Tips

• Slow down — speed is your #1 enemy in poor conditions
• Double your following distance
• Use your lights appropriately to be seen
• If visibility is too poor, pull over safely and wait it out

Key Point

In poor conditions, your defensive driving decisions matter more than ever. The most important tool is not your brakes — it’s your judgment.

Next Step

Click “Mark Complete” to continue to Lesson 6: Incident Response & Reporting, your final lesson before the Final Assessment.