Why is it important to increase following distance during adverse conditions?

Increasing following distance during adverse conditions is vital for reducing the risk of collisions. In situations such as rain, snow, fog, or icy road surfaces, stopping distances can significantly increase due to reduced traction and impaired visibility. By maintaining a greater distance from the vehicle ahead, drivers have more time to react to sudden stops or obstacles, which can help prevent accidents. This extra space allows for more reaction time, making it easier to adjust to the decreased effectiveness of braking in slippery conditions.

The other options, while relevant to driving safety, do not capture the primary purpose of increasing following distance in adverse conditions. Better visibility may be a factor, but it primarily ties to allowing more reaction time and minimizing the likelihood of a crash. Adjusting for increased speed limits is less relevant in adverse conditions where lower speeds are often necessary for safety. Preventing unnecessary stops is also important but secondary, as the primary concern is to ensure that drivers have the necessary safety buffer to avoid incidents.