Are stopping distances only increased during snow or ice?

Stopping distances are influenced by a variety of factors beyond just snow or ice. While adverse weather conditions like rain, snow, or ice can drastically increase the distance needed to stop a vehicle due to reduced traction, other elements also play a significant role. These include the condition of the tires, the weight of the vehicle, the speed at which you are traveling, and the road surface. For example, wet asphalt can also increase stopping distances, as can driving downhill.

Moreover, factors such as the driver’s reaction time, fatigue, and visibility conditions, such as fog or heavy rain, can further affect how quickly a vehicle can come to a halt. Therefore, it's critical to recognize that stopping distances can change due to various variables, not solely winter weather conditions.