Illinois CDL Practice Exam

Which of the following conditions may require a driver to increase their following distance?

1. Clear and sunny weather

2. Heavy rain or poor weather conditions

3. Heavy traffic with good visibility

4. Driving at night

The correct answer is: Heavy rain or poor weather conditions

Increasing following distance is crucial when driving in heavy rain or poor weather conditions. Adverse weather impacts the road's traction and can significantly reduce visibility. Rain creates a slick surface that makes it easier for vehicles to skid, and the stopping distance increases. Therefore, maintaining a greater following distance provides the driver with more time to react to sudden stops or movements of the vehicle in front, reducing the risk of collisions. In clear and sunny weather, typically the road conditions and visibility are at their best, allowing for a shorter following distance to be deemed safe. Heavy traffic, although potentially chaotic, doesn't necessarily require an increased following distance as long as visibility is good—the presence of heavy vehicles often results in slower speeds, which lessens the need for a significantly extended distance. Driving at night also warrants caution and potentially increased following distance for visibility reasons, but not to the extent that adverse weather conditions do. Hence, maintaining a longer following distance in wet conditions is a fundamental safety practice to ensure adequate reaction time under the risks presented by such weather.