What is the recommended action when driving in bad weather conditions?

Increasing the following distance from the vehicle ahead is the recommended action when driving in bad weather conditions. This is important because adverse weather, such as rain, snow, or fog, can significantly reduce visibility and traction. By maintaining a greater distance, a driver has more time to react to sudden stops or changes in speed from the vehicle ahead, which reduces the risk of collisions. This extra space becomes crucial in conditions where stopping distances are longer due to slippery surfaces or reduced visibility.

The other options do not prioritize safety under challenging weather conditions. Speeding up to avoid delays is dangerous and can lead to losing control of the vehicle. Using high beams can actually worsen visibility in fog or heavy rain, as the light reflects back, further obscuring the driver's view. Keeping windows down can also be unwise, as it allows outside elements like rain or snow to enter the vehicle and distract the driver. Therefore, increasing the following distance is the most sensible and safety-focused choice.