Dealing with Adverse Situations - France Driving Test

If you must drive in poor weather

Drive slowly and keep a safe following distance: Rain, fog, and sandstorms reduce visibility and road grip and slow down and maintain distance to react safely.

Best lights to use in fog or heavy rain

Use low-beam headlights: High-beams reflect off fog or rain, reducing visibility low-beams help you see and be seen.

If driving through a sandstorm

Pull over, stop, and turn on hazard lights: Wait until visibility improves keep headlights on but not high beams.

To avoid hydroplaning in heavy rain

Reduce speed and avoid puddles: Slower speed and smooth steering help tires maintain contact with the road.

If your vehicle begins to skid

Steer gently in the direction of the skid: Do not brake hard ease off the accelerator and regain control calmly.

When driving in wind or crosswinds

Hold the steering wheel firmly: Anticipate gusts, especially near open areas or when passing large vehicles.

If brakes get wet after driving through water

Test brakes gently while driving slowly: Light braking dries the brakes and restores stopping ability.

If your vehicle stalls on a railway track

Get out and move at a 45° angle toward the train direction: Avoid injury from debris if the train hits the vehicle.

If your vehicle gets stuck in sand

Use low gear and try to gently rock the vehicle: Avoid spinning tires and dig around wheels or use mats for traction.

When driving downhill for a long distance

Use a lower gear to control speed: Reduces reliance on brakes and prevents overheating or failure.

If engine temperature rises suddenly

Stop in a safe place and let the engine cool: Turn off the engine and wait before checking coolant never open the radiator cap while hot.

If headlights fail while driving at night

Turn on hazard lights and stop safely: Use parking lights if available and seek assistance immediately.

To reduce sun glare while driving

Use sun visors and wear sunglasses: Glare can reduce visibility and slow down and adjust position if needed.

If visibility becomes very poor

Pull over safely and stop until it improves: Turn on hazard lights wait in a safe location off the road.

To reduce the risk of brake failure

Avoid continuous braking, especially downhill: Use engine braking and pump brakes if pressure drops.

If your tire blows out

Hold the wheel firmly and ease off the gas: Do not brake hard steer straight until you can stop safely.

If your steering suddenly becomes difficult

Slow down and move off the road safely: Power steering failure may require more effort and do not continue at high speed.

In the event of sudden acceleration

Shift to neutral and apply brakes gradually: Avoid panic and regain control and stop in a safe area.

Driving through deep water should be avoided because

It can damage the engine and reduce braking: Water entering the air intake or brakes can cause breakdown or accidents.

If your windshield wipers fail in rain

Reduce speed and stop if necessary: Visibility is critical and do not continue driving blind.

When descending a slippery hill

Use engine braking and avoid sudden moves: Sudden braking or steering can cause skids and control descent with lower gears.

When driving on gravel roads

Reduce speed and steer smoothly: Loose surfaces reduce traction and avoid sharp turns or sudden stops.

If an animal crosses unexpectedly

Brake firmly but do not swerve: Sudden swerving may cause more serious crashes and stay in control.

If your vehicle catches fire

Stop, evacuate immediately, and call emergency services: Do not attempt to extinguish large fires and move passengers to a safe distance.

If your vehicle stalls in traffic

Turn on hazard lights and try to move to the side: Unable to move, remain in the vehicle with seatbelt on and call for help.

To stay safe in tunnel emergencies

Follow signs and emergency exits: Avoid stopping unless necessary keep alert for alarms or signals.

If your accelerator gets stuck

Shift to neutral and brake safely: Dont turn off the ignition while moving and use neutral and brakes to slow down gradually.