California Car / Permit practice question · Handling Emergencies
When driving in high winds, you should avoid using cruise control because:
Answer choices
- You need full control of the accelerator to react to gusts— Correct answer
- Cruise control makes the vehicle accelerate on its own in wind
- Cruise control is illegal during storm conditions
- Cruise control disables the emergency flashers
Why this is the answer
In high winds, do not use cruise control, so you keep maximum control of the accelerator if a gust hits. Gusts are unpredictable, so also reduce your speed and keep a firm hold on the steering wheel. The handbook does not say cruise control is illegal during storms or that it affects the vehicle on its own.
Source: California Driver Handbook — High Winds
Content reviewed against official driver handbooks · August 12, 2026
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