New York DMV Permit Written TestSafe Driving PracticesMedium
When driving in strong crosswinds, which of the following actions is most important for maintaining control of your vehicle?
- ASteer into the wind and be prepared for sudden gusts.
- BDrive closer to the center line to give more room on your side.
- CSpeed up to gain more stability.
- DTurn off cruise control and grip the steering wheel loosely.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Steer into the wind and be prepared for sudden gusts.
Steering slightly into the wind (counter-steering) helps maintain your vehicle's lane position against the force of the crosswind. Being prepared for sudden gusts allows you to make quick, small steering corrections.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Driving closer to the center line can put you too close to oncoming traffic or vehicles in the adjacent lane.
- C. Speeding up reduces your reaction time and can make it harder to control the vehicle in strong winds.
- D. Turning off cruise control is good, but gripping the steering wheel loosely is incorrect; a firm, controlled grip is necessary.
Driving in Crosswinds
Techniques for maintaining vehicle control when encountering strong side winds.
- Steer into the wind.
- Be prepared for gusts.
- Reduce speed.
- Grip wheel firmly.
Memory trick: Steer to the wind, keep control within!