Road warnings

Slippery when wet

What does it mean?

The road may become unexpectedly slippery, especially when wet. An added plaque can identify another cause, such as ice or a steel bridge deck, so read the complete sign assembly.

What to do when you see it

  1. Reduce speed for the available traction.
  2. Steer, accelerate, and brake smoothly.
  3. Increase following space so you have more room to slow down.

How to recognize it

  • Yellow diamond showing a car.
  • Two wavy tire tracks trail beneath the vehicle.

On the road

Rain starts as you approach a bridge displaying this symbol. You reduce speed and leave more space so you can cross without sudden braking or steering.

Don’t confuse it with

Yellow diamond with a single winding black arrow.

Winding road

Winding Road uses one winding arrow; the slippery-surface symbol shows a vehicle and two tracks.

Yellow diamond with an arrow curving left.

Curve left

A curve arrow describes road direction rather than pavement traction.

Put the meaning into practice

The related quiz includes this sign and other study questions. State practice can also cover local rules; it is not an official DMV exam.

Common U.S. sign recognition, reviewed October 3, 2026. Actual sign values, additional plaques and local rules can change how you should respond.