When are roadways the most slippery?

• A. The first rain after a period of dryness
• B. During the first snow
• C. In sunny weather
• D. At night when it is warm

Answer: (A)

The most slippery time is when rain first hits a dry road. After a dry spell, oil, grease, and rubber deposits rise to the surface, creating a very slippery film between the tire and the pavement. That thin slick dramatically reduces traction, so tires grip less and stopping distances grow. As rain continues, that film is gradually washed away, and traction improves.

That’s why options like the first snow or sunny weather aren’t as risky in this specific sense. Snow and ice change traction in different ways, and sunny, dry conditions aren’t slick at all. Nighttime warmth can keep pavement wet or create dew, but it doesn’t typically pose as severe an initial slick as the very first rain after a dry period. When you do encounter that first rain after dryness, slow down, increase following distance, and avoid abrupt braking or steering.