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Question

Difficulty: EasyIce and Snow Conditions

You are driving on a road covered with packed ice and snow. What driving technique should you use to help prevent wheelspin and maintain control of your vehicle?

  1. A
    Drive at a moderate speed in the lowest possible gear
  2. Drive at a slow speed in the highest gear possibleAnswer
  3. C
    Brake firmly and frequently to test road surface grip
  4. D
    Keep the clutch pedal depressed while negotiating sharp bends

Answer

Drive at a slow speed in the highest gear possible
According to the Highway Code, when driving in icy and snowy conditions, drivers should travel at a slow speed in the highest gear possible. This reduces engine torque transmitted to the driven wheels, preventing wheelspin and allowing for smooth, gradual control.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Assess the icy surface conditions and understand the risk of wheelspin.
Recognise that sudden torque or harsh inputs break tyre grip on ice.
Traction is severely reduced on snow and packed ice.
2
Select a vehicle control method that minimises engine torque and maintains smooth power delivery.
Choose a higher gear combined with low speed and gentle pedal movements.
Higher gears reduce wheel torque, which helps tyres grip the surface rather than spin.

Key Concept

Selecting the highest practical gear at slow speeds to minimise wheelspin and maintain tyre grip on ice and snow.
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

Ice and Snow Conditions

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