In which conditions should you reduce speed as a precaution?

• A. Only at night.
• B. In restricted visibility, high traffic, or poor weather, to allow more time to react.
• C. In clear, calm, low-traffic conditions only.
• D. Only when near harbor entrances.

Answer: (B)

Reducing speed as a precaution is about maintaining a safe speed that allows you to take proper and effective action to avoid a collision given the current circumstances. In restricted visibility, high traffic, or poor weather, you gain less time to identify hazards and less opportunity to maneuver, so slowing down increases your reaction time and shortens stopping distance. This makes it easier to assess others’ movements, respond to sudden changes, and avoid close-quarters situations. The idea isn’t limited to night or to near harbor entrances; it applies whenever conditions make it harder to see, judge, or stop in time. In clear, calm, low-traffic conditions you may not need to reduce speed, provided your speed remains safe for those conditions.