Your all-wheel-drive car accelerates easily on snow. What does that tell you about its stopping distance?
Correct answer: It still needs extra time and distance to stop on the slippery road.
Traction for moving off does not remove the effects of snow and ice on braking. WisDOT specifically reminds drivers that all vehicles, including AWD, need more stopping time and space.
Source: Wisconsin DOT official guidance; Winter driving — all-wheel drive and stopping distance; reviewed September 15, 2026. ↗
You can see the main body of a snowplow, but blowing snow hides its side. Why should you leave generous lateral clearance?
Correct answer: A wing blade may extend beyond the visible body of the truck.
Plow wings can project several feet beyond the truck and be obscured by snow. Do not judge the machine’s clearance solely from the part of the body you can see.
Source: Wisconsin DOT official guidance; Winter maintenance FAQ — hidden wing blades; reviewed September 15, 2026. ↗
Your car is safely stopped off the road during a snowstorm, with no fire or other immediate danger. While waiting for help, what is usually safest?
Correct answer: Stay in the car with your seat belt on.
In these conditions, the car usually offers protection from weather and sliding vehicles. This advice does not apply to a car on railroad tracks or a vehicle with an immediate fire or similar danger.
Source: Wisconsin DOT official guidance; If you get stranded — safest place in severe weather; reviewed September 15, 2026. ↗
Snow has piled around the rear of your stranded car. Before running the engine briefly for warmth, what must you check?
Correct answer: That the exhaust is working and its outlet is not blocked by snow.
A blocked exhaust can allow dangerous carbon monoxide to build up. Check the exhaust before using the engine for heat, and do not assume an idling vehicle is safe with a snow-blocked outlet.
Source: Wisconsin DOT official guidance; If you get stranded — exhaust and carbon monoxide; reviewed September 15, 2026. ↗
With the exhaust clear and working, you need heat while waiting in a stranded car. Which approach matches WisDOT guidance?
Correct answer: Run the engine only for brief periods when needed; avoid a portable heater inside.
WisDOT recommends brief engine use when heat is necessary and warns that portable heaters in enclosed spaces are dangerous. It does not prescribe one fixed timing schedule for every situation.
Source: Wisconsin DOT official guidance; If you get stranded — brief engine use and portable heaters; reviewed September 15, 2026. ↗
You are choosing where to store blankets, water and a flashlight for winter emergencies. Why might the back seat be better than the trunk?
Correct answer: The supplies remain reachable if the trunk jams or freezes shut.
WisDOT suggests considering accessible storage because a trunk may be jammed or frozen. This is preparedness guidance, not a legal requirement to carry a particular kit. Secure supplies so they do not become hazards.
Source: Wisconsin DOT official guidance; Build a winter survival kit — accessible storage; reviewed September 15, 2026. ↗
