When the road surface is covered in packed snow or ice, how much should following distances be increased?

The correct answer indicates that following distances should be increased to three times the normal distance when driving on packed snow or ice. This adjustment is crucial for safety due to the decreased traction and longer stopping distances required under these conditions.

When roads are icy or snowy, vehicles can have significantly less grip on the surface, making it difficult to stop quickly in emergencies. Increasing the following distance allows for more reaction time and reduces the risk of rear-end collisions. By maintaining a greater distance, drivers have the opportunity to adjust for any unexpected changes in speed or direction from the vehicle ahead, which is particularly important on slippery surfaces where skidding can occur.

Overall, this practice enhances safety by giving the driver a better chance to respond appropriately to hazards that may arise while driving in adverse weather conditions.