What is the effect of weather conditions on stopping distance?

Weather conditions significantly influence stopping distance due to factors like wet or icy roads that reduce traction between the vehicle's tires and the road surface. When roads are slippery, vehicles require more time and distance to come to a complete stop, as the brakes cannot efficiently slow the vehicle down. In adverse weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or ice, visibility can also be reduced, leading drivers to react more slowly and necessitating increased stopping distances to ensure safety.

While some may think that stopping distances remain constant regardless of weather, this is not the case, as stopping distances are dependent on friction between the tires and the road. Similarly, the idea that weather only affects loaded vehicles is misleading; all vehicles can experience increased stopping distances under poor weather conditions. Thus, drivers must be aware of these variables and adjust their driving accordingly to maintain safety on the road.