How can adverse weather conditions affect driving?

Adverse weather conditions significantly impact driving safety and performance by primarily reducing visibility and increasing stopping distances. Weather phenomena such as rain, snow, fog, and ice can lead to less clear sightlines, making it harder for drivers to see other vehicles, road signs, and potential hazards. This diminished visibility requires drivers to adjust their speed and maintain increased awareness to navigate safely.

Additionally, many adverse weather conditions can cause roads to become slick or treacherous, leading to longer distances required for stopping. For example, wet or icy surfaces reduce tire grip, meaning that drivers need to start applying brakes sooner to avoid collisions. These factors illustrate the critical need for drivers to modify their driving behaviors in response to changing weather conditions to enhance safety on the road.