Chapter 5-5: Speed control

The ICBC driving test includes a vital section on Speed Control, which evaluates your ability to adjust and maintain appropriate speeds in various driving situations.

BC Driving Test - Chapter 5-5: Speed control

1 / 20

Why are vehicles like some SUVs, pickup trucks, and camper vans more likely to tip on curves at higher speeds?

Because they are lighter and closer to the ground

Because they are designed to corner faster than cars

Because they always have better traction than cars

Because they have a higher centre of gravity and are less stable on curves and uneven surfaces

2 / 20

What is inertia in the context of driving?

The tendency for moving objects to continue moving in a straight line

The force pulling objects towards the earth

The grip between tires and the road

The ability of the brakes to stop the car

3 / 20

Why isn’t the slowest speed always the safest speed?

Because slower speeds always cause more skidding

Because slower speeds always use more fuel

Because driving much slower than surrounding traffic can frustrate other drivers and may cause risky passing

Because the law requires you to always drive exactly at the posted limit

4 / 20

What is the best way to keep your driving speed smooth and steady when approaching a stop sign?

Shift into neutral and coast to the stop

Accelerate slightly, then brake suddenly

Anticipate the stop, scan ahead, and brake gradually

Drive at normal speed and brake hard at the last moment

5 / 20

What is the best practice for handling curves safely?

Speed up in the curve to improve traction

Shift into neutral and coast through the curve

Enter the curve quickly and brake hard inside the curve

Slow down before the curve and avoid braking in it

6 / 20

Which of the following can reduce traction?

Using winter tires in winter conditions

Dry pavement and new tires

Lower speeds on clean roads

Slippery or sandy surfaces and worn or improperly inflated tires

7 / 20

If you start to lose traction while going through a curve, what should you do?

Slam on the brakes immediately

Steer sharply in the opposite direction

Accelerate hard to regain control

Don’t brake; ease off the accelerator and re‑apply gently when you regain traction

8 / 20

What is “speed control”?

Letting surrounding traffic decide your speed

Driving as fast as the vehicle safely allows

Relying mainly on the brake to control speed

Using the accelerator, brake, and (if applicable) gears to maintain appropriate and steady speeds

9 / 20

What are the usual speed limits unless a sign tells you otherwise within cities and towns?

60 km/h

50 km/h

30 km/h

80 km/h

10 / 20

Why is gravity particularly important to remember when driving downhill?

Because it eliminates the need for braking

Because your vehicle will always stop more quickly

Because it automatically lowers your speed

Because your vehicle will need a longer distance to stop

11 / 20

How does raising the height of a vehicle or its load affect its centre of gravity and stability?

It raises the centre of gravity and makes the vehicle less stable

It only changes stability when driving straight

It has no effect on stability

It lowers the centre of gravity and makes the vehicle more stable

12 / 20

For a vehicle with a standard transmission, why is proper gear use important?

It allows you to drive in neutral most of the time

It makes the vehicle lighter

It helps you choose appropriate gears and shift smoothly to control speed

It reduces the need to use the brakes

13 / 20

How does gravity affect your vehicle on hills?

It speeds your vehicle uphill and slows it downhill

It has no effect on vehicles with good brakes

It slows your vehicle going uphill and speeds it up going downhill

It only affects vehicles going downhill

14 / 20

What is the centre of gravity of a vehicle?

The position of the engine in the vehicle

The height of the driver’s seat

The lowest point on the vehicle’s frame

The point around which all of the vehicle’s weight is balanced

15 / 20

What is the typical speed limit outside cities and towns unless otherwise posted?

20 km/h

50 km/h

90 km/h

80 km/h

16 / 20

What is true about coasting downhill in neutral or with the clutch in?

It is illegal and you must be in gear to safely control your vehicle

It is recommended to save fuel

It is allowed if traffic is light

It is acceptable only on steep hills

17 / 20

What is traction?

The grip your tires have on the road

The force of gravity on your vehicle

The tendency of objects to keep moving

The speed at which your vehicle can accelerate

18 / 20

How should you adjust your speed relative to the posted speed in poor conditions (e.g., slippery roads, limited visibility)?

Drive exactly at the posted speed

Maintain highway speed regardless of conditions

Drive slightly above the posted speed for better control

Drive slower than the posted speed

19 / 20

What can happen if you drive quickly up to a stop sign and then hit the brake hard?

Your fuel economy will always improve

Your passengers may be uncomfortable and the driver behind may crash into your rear

Your vehicle’s braking system will never wear out

Your stopping distance will always be shorter

20 / 20

What is the maximum speed limit in a lane or alleyway within municipalities unless otherwise posted?

30 km/h

40 km/h

20 km/h

50 km/h

Your score is

In this section, you’re assessed on your understanding of speed limits, road conditions, and traffic flow. Demonstrating proper speed control means knowing when to slow down, accelerate, or maintain a steady pace for safety. This includes adapting to weather, school zones, construction areas, and heavy traffic. Mastery of speed control not only helps you pass the test but also ensures the safety of all road users, reflecting the responsible driving habits required in British Columbia.