Slippery Roads

Rain, snow, or mud can make the roads slippery. Drive more slowly than you would on a dry road and allow for more space between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead of you.

Adjust your speed for different conditions:

• Wet road: Reduce your speed by 5 to 10 mph.
• Packed snow: Reduce your speed by half.
• Ice: Reduce your speed to no more than 5 mph.

Some road surfaces are more slippery than others when wet. These usually have warning signs posted. Here are situations where the road may be more slippery:

• Shade from trees or buildings can hide icy spots on cold, wet days. These areas freeze first and dry out last.
• Bridges and overpasses tend to freeze before the rest of the road. They can have icy spots.
• When it starts to rain, the pavement can be very slippery.

Slow down at the first sign of rain, drizzle, or snow on the road. This is especially true if it has been dry and hot for some time, because oil and dust on the road’s surface have not been washed away.

Turn on your windshield wipers, low-beam headlights, and defroster. In a heavy rainstorm or snowstorm, you may not be able to see more than 100 feet in front of your vehicle. If you cannot see farther than 100 feet, it is not safe to drive faster than 30 mph. You may have to stop from time to time to wipe mud or snow off your windshield, headlights, and taillights. If you drive in snowy areas, carry snow chains for your tires. Snow chains give your tires more traction. Carry the correct number and type of chains for your vehicle.