What is a key factor in maintaining traction while driving on slippery surfaces?

Maintaining a safe following distance is crucial for ensuring traction on slippery surfaces. On surfaces such as ice, rain, or snow, the adhesion between tires and the road is significantly reduced, which can lead to loss of control. By keeping a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, a driver has more time to react to changes in speed or direction, reducing the likelihood of sudden stops or sharp maneuvers that can lead to skidding. This distance allows for smoother acceleration and deceleration, which helps maintain traction, as abrupt changes in speed can unbalance the vehicle and lead to loss of control.

When considering the other choices, maximizing speed increases the chance of losing traction, as higher speeds make it more difficult to maintain control. Excessive use of the brake can cause wheels to lock up, resulting in loss of traction, especially on slippery surfaces. Making sudden lane changes can upset the balance of the vehicle, further increasing the risk of losing traction. Thus, maintaining a safe following distance is the best practice for traction management in slippery conditions.