New York DMV Permit Written TestSafe Driving PracticesEasy
A driver is operating their vehicle on a highway with a posted speed limit of 55 mph. Visibility is significantly reduced due to heavy fog. What is the most appropriate action for the driver to take?
- AFollow closely behind another vehicle to use their taillights as a guide.
- BReduce speed significantly and use low-beam headlights.
- CMaintain the posted speed limit, as it is the legal maximum.
- DTurn on high-beam headlights to improve visibility.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Reduce speed significantly and use low-beam headlights.
In adverse weather conditions like heavy fog, drivers must reduce their speed below the posted limit to maintain control and allow for safe stopping distances. Low-beam headlights are used in fog to avoid glare, as high beams reflect off the fog and worsen visibility.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Following closely is dangerous in any condition, especially fog, as it reduces reaction time and stopping distance.
- C. Maintaining the posted speed in heavy fog is unsafe and significantly increases accident risk.
- D. High beams reflect off fog and can reduce visibility further, making driving more dangerous.
Driving in Fog
When driving in fog, reduce your speed, use low-beam headlights, and increase your following distance to ensure safety.
- Reduce speed below posted limit.
- Use low-beam headlights only.
- Increase following distance.
Memory trick: When weather goes bad, slow down and light up low.