What Does the “Slippery When Wet” Sign Mean?

Road Signs and Their Meanings: Slippery When Wet

The Slippery When Wet road sign (W8-5) warns of unexpected slippery conditions ahead. You will typically see the sign near bridges and overpasses because bridges tend to be more slippery than the rest of the pavement during cold and wet weather conditions.

In winter, bridges tend to freeze first and dry out last.

Test takers often mix up the sign with the Winding Road sign. Ensure you can distinguish between them before attempting your written knowledge exam.

Supplemental Plaques

Beneath the sign, you may see a supplemental plaque with legends such as ICE, WHEN WET, STEEL DECK, or EXCESS OIL. These plaques indicate the reason for the slippery conditions.

How to Act When You See The Sign “Slippery When Wet”

Situational judgment questions are common on knowledge tests.

Here is what you must consider if you see the “Slippery When Wet” sign:

• In cold or wet weather, start slowing down when you see the sign.
• Avoid hard braking or sudden turns. Fast or sudden maneuvers may cause your vehicle to skid.
• Increase your following distance to any vehicle ahead, as it takes longer to stop on a slippery surface.

U.S. Warning Signs

The Slippery When Wet sign is an example of a general warning sign. These signs are usually diamond-shaped with a yellow background. When installed in work zones, the same warning signs have an orange background.

The basic shapes and background colors of American road signs are part of the free online practice tests at FreeDMVTest. You may see the same questions on your state’s written knowledge test when you apply for a driver’s license or learner’s permit. Recognizing road signs from a distance can be very useful in many situations.

Available Practice Tests

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Check What You Have Learned

1 / 6

1. A sign that alerts you to unexpected slippery conditions has which color?

A) White

B) Yellow

C) Green

Slippery when wet is a warning sign with a yellow background and a black symbol.

2 / 6

2. What does this road sign mean?

A) The road can be slippery when wet

B) There is a winding road ahead

C) There is a steep hill ahead

Winding road. There is a series of curves and turns ahead. Watch your speed.

3 / 6

3. Which is the most crucial driving technique on slippery roads?

A) Turn on cruise control

B) Slow down and increase following distance

C) Use a higher gear and stear steadily

The basic speed law in your state requires you to adjust your speed to current conditions, including weather and roadway conditions. If the roadway is slippery, slow down.

4 / 6

4. The Slippery When Wet sign is often posted:

A) Near railroad crossings

B) Near bridges and overpasses

C) On top of steep hills

Slippery condition often occurs in cold or wet weather conditions and on bridges or overpasses. That is why you will see the sign near bridges.

5 / 6

5. The Slippery When Wet sign has which shape?

A) Round

B) Triangular

C) The diamond shape

Slippery when wet is a warning sign. It is diamond-shaped with a yellow background color.

6 / 6

6. During rainfall, when are pavements usually most slippery?

A) After it stops raining

B) When it has been raining for more than 15 minutes

C) When it just starts raining after a period of dry weather

Slow down at the first sign of rain, especially after a dry spell. Many roads are slippery because oil and dust have yet to wash away.

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Quick Facts

    Name: Slippery When Wet
    Category: Roadway Related
    Group: Roadway Surface Condition
    Designation: W8-5
    Shape: Diamond
    Color: Yellow with black symbol of a skidding car
    Posted: Where unexpected slippery conditions may exist