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Winter Driving Practice Quiz: Fact vs Fiction
Enhance exam readiness with interactive practice questions
Study Outcomes
- Understand common misconceptions about winter road conditions.
- Analyze the impact of weather on vehicle performance and safety.
- Identify effective driving techniques for maneuvering in snowy and icy environments.
- Evaluate the risks associated with myths about tire traction and braking.
- Apply practical measures to enhance control and stability during winter driving.
Winter Driving Quiz: Which Fact Is False? Cheat Sheet
- Myth: You should underinflate tires for better traction. - Believe it or not, a softer tire won't give you extra grip in snow; it actually reduces stability and braking performance. Stick to the PSI your car maker recommends to keep your tires rolling smoothly and safely. holman.com
- Myth: Pouring hot water on a frozen windshield is a quick fix. - It might seem like a fast lane to clear ice, but the sudden heat swap can crack your glass. Instead, grab an ice scraper or let your defroster work its magic for a safe, streak-free view. holman.com
- Myth: Warming up your car for several minutes is necessary before driving. - Modern engines are tough cookies that only need 30 - 60 seconds of tick-over before you drive off gently. Over-idling just guzzles fuel and pumps extra emissions into the air. holman.com
- Myth: Cruise control is safe to use in winter conditions. - While cruise control is a road trip buddy, it's a no-go on ice since it can't react to sudden skids. Keep your foot on the pedal to feel the road and adjust your speed instantly. holman.com
- Myth: Salt and sand eliminate the risk of ice. - Sprinkling salt or sand helps traction but doesn't cast a magical shield against slick spots. Always slow down and stay alert, even on roads that look treated. holman.com
- Myth: All-season tires are sufficient for winter driving. - All-seasons are jack-of-all-trades but masters of none when the mercury drops. Invest in winter tires designed with special rubber compounds to stay soft and grippy in freezing temps. nsc.org
- Myth: You should pump the brakes if you start to skid. - If your ride has ABS, pumping the brakes actually defeats the anti-lock system. Instead, apply steady, firm pressure so the electronics can keep your wheels from locking. dhses.ny.gov
- Myth: It's safe to drive the speed limit in winter conditions. - Posted limits assume perfect weather, and winter roads are anything but. Dial back your speed to match snow, sleet, or ice, and give yourself extra stopping room. oregonstate.edu
- Myth: Four-wheel drive makes you invincible on ice. - Four-wheel drive can boost forward traction, but it won't shorten your stopping distance on ice. Always brake gently, steer smoothly, and maintain a safe gap. nsc.org
- Myth: You should let your car run in an enclosed garage to warm up. - Running an engine indoors can let carbon monoxide fill the space, which is invisible and deadly. Always crank the heat in a ventilated area or wait outside until your engine is cozy. statefarm.com