What may be the consequences of a reduced grip of the tyres of a tractor, caused by a change in the condition of the surface?
Show the correct answer
Correct answer
A. The lengthening of the braking distance.
Explanation
In the photo, there is the rear wheel of a tractor and a hitch above asphalt covered with autumn leaves. Reduced grip of the tyres on the road surface, caused by a change in its condition, results in a longer braking distance - answer A.
The brakes stop the wheels, but it is only the friction of the tyres on the surface that stops the tractor. When the surface becomes wet, muddy, covered with leaves or icy, the tyres transfer less braking force, so at the same speed the tractor needs a longer distance to stop. A shorter braking distance (answer B) would be possible only with better grip. A complete inability to brake (answer C) is an exaggeration - you can still brake, only less effectively, and pressing the pedal too hard will lock the wheels and the tractor will start to skid. That is why, when you see leaves, mud or frost, you slow down earlier and increase the following distance from the vehicle in front.
Legal basis: Art. 19 para. 1 and para. 2 point 3 of the Road Traffic Act (Prawo o ruchu drogowym)