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Difficulty: MediumDriving in Adverse Weather and Low Visibility

You are driving on a highway during a sudden heavy rainstorm that creates severe road spray and standing water on the pavement. Although the posted speed limit is 65 mph, visibility is reduced and tire traction is impaired. Under the Basic Speed Law, which of the following actions should you take to maintain safety?

  1. Reduce your speed below the posted limit to a speed that is reasonable and safe for the current road and visibility conditions.Answer
  2. B
    Maintain the posted speed limit of 65 mph as long as you stay directly in the lane of travel.
  3. C
    Switch on your high-beam headlights to increase your sight distance through the heavy rain spray.
  4. D
    Maintain your speed and apply hard brake pressure immediately if you feel the vehicle start to slide.

Answer

Reduce your speed below the posted limit to a speed that is reasonable and safe for the current road and visibility conditions.
The Basic Speed Law mandates driving at a safe speed for existing conditions regardless of posted maximum speed limits. Reduced visibility and standing water require slowing down to maintain vehicle control and adequate stopping distance.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Evaluate environmental hazards and road conditions
Identify reduced visibility from rain spray and decreased traction from standing water.
Adverse weather increases stopping distance and risk of hydroplaning.
2
Apply the Basic Speed Law rule
Determine that the maximum safe speed is lower than the posted 65 mph limit.
Traffic laws stipulate that posted speed limits are intended for ideal conditions only.
3
Select the proper vehicle control adjustment
Decelerate smoothly using low-beam headlights and maintain an expanded following distance.
Slowing down preserves control and provides extra reaction time.

Key Concept

Basic Speed Law in Adverse Weather
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Topics

Driving in Adverse Weather and Low Visibility

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