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Difficulty: MediumIce and Snow Conditions

When driving on a road covered with compacted snow or ice, suddenly shifting down into a low gear while travelling at speed is recommended to slow the vehicle down quickly without skidding.

Answer: Answer

Answer

False - Abrupt downshifting creates sudden engine braking forces that can break tyre grip and cause the driven wheels to skid on icy or snow-covered surfaces.
The correct response is False because sudden changes in speed or abrupt engine braking on ice and snow can easily break tyre traction, leading to a loss of control. The Highway Code recommends keeping all controls smooth, gentle, and progressive, using the highest practical gear rather than violently dropping down gears.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Evaluate the vehicle handling dynamics of sudden downshifting on slippery surfaces.
Shifting rapidly into a lower gear produces sudden engine drag on the driven wheels.
On compacted snow or ice, tyre adhesion is drastically reduced, meaning abrupt deceleration torque from the engine will easily exceed available friction.
2
Determine the correct Highway Code vehicle control technique for ice and snow.
Drivers must apply gentle, progressive braking in good time and maintain smooth, gradual gear changes.
Smooth inputs prevent abrupt transfers of weight or rotational resistance that trigger loss of directional control.

Key Concept

Smooth vehicle control and managing engine braking on icy and snowy roads
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

Ice and Snow Conditions

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