How can you test your brakes while driving in winter conditions?

Testing your brakes while driving in winter conditions should be done cautiously to assess the vehicle's traction on the slippery surface. When you drive slowly and gently apply the brakes, you can gauge how well they respond without losing control of the vehicle. This method allows you to understand how the brakes and the tires interact with the icy or snowy road, which is crucial for making informed decisions about your speed and driving strategy in winter conditions.

By testing your brakes at a low speed, you minimize the risk of skidding or spinning out, which can occur at higher speeds or with sudden brake applications. In winter driving, it's important to adapt your driving techniques to ensure safety and maintain control of your vehicle. The other options, which suggest applying the brakes hard or checking them only when stopped, do not provide a safe or effective means of assessing braking performance under winter conditions.