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Question 8143

For safety, what is the most advisable way to drive down a mountain pass when there are patches of ice on the roadway?

  1. At low speed in the highest gear possible, avoiding sudden braking.
  2. Using the parking brake to take the curves.
  3. In the lowest gear possible to avoid skidding.
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: In the lowest gear possible to avoid skidding.

To drive down a mountain pass with patches of ice, slow down before starting the descent and drive slowly in a low gear, first or second. This lets the engine hold the car back so you barely need to brake. If you do brake, do it very gently to avoid locking the wheels. A high gear on a downhill grade forces you to brake more, and using the parking brake in a curve can make you skid.

Manual II. Cuestiones de Seguridad Vial · Manual II. Cuestiones de Seguridad Vial (DGT, 2026)