What is a primary rule for driving in adverse weather conditions?

When driving in adverse weather conditions, the primary rule is to increase following distance and reduce speed. This is essential because adverse conditions, such as rain, snow, or fog, can significantly impact a vehicle's traction, visibility, and braking ability. Reducing speed allows drivers to react more effectively to unexpected situations, such as sudden stops or obstacles in the roadway.

Increasing the following distance gives drivers more time to respond to changes in traffic and road conditions, which is crucial in maintaining safety. In these conditions, vehicles may take longer to stop, and having a greater distance from the vehicle ahead can prevent collisions.

Maintaining high speed to pass through quickly can lead to loss of control and increase the risk of an accident. Driving without distractions is always important, but it does not specifically address the unique challenges posed by adverse weather. Using high beams can actually reduce visibility in certain conditions, such as fog or heavy rain, as the light gets reflected back. Therefore, adjusting speed and spacing is the best practice to ensure safety when the weather deteriorates.