Slippery roadAustralia

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Australia. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.


23. Slippery road

A slippery road has reduced tyre grip and can make steering, braking and acceleration less effective. Roads may become slippery because of rain, ice, snow, mud, oil, loose material or other substances on the surface. Drivers should reduce speed, increase their following distance and avoid sudden steering, braking or acceleration. Extra caution is needed in bends, on bridges and wherever the road surface changes unexpectedly.

Slippery road
Slippery-surface warning sign beside the flooded Colleges Crossing. (Queensland, Australia)
Wikimedia.org • lordphantom74 • CC BY
What can make roads slippery in Australia?

Be prepared for wet roads and loose gravel, with winter ice in some southern or mountain areas. A surface can become slippery even if it looks clear, and different parts of the road may have very different grip.

🔗 nsw.gov.au • Australia, NSW official road-user guidance — slippery-road

How should you drive on a slippery road in Australia?

Reduce speed early, increase the gap to the vehicle ahead and use smooth steering, braking and acceleration. Do not rely on the posted maximum as a safe target when grip is poor.

🔗 nsw.gov.au • Australia, NSW official road-user guidance — slippery-road

Does a slippery-road warning sign in Australia automatically impose a lower number?

The warning sign highlights a reduced-grip risk; it normally does not itself prescribe a new numerical speed limit. A separate speed-limit sign, temporary restriction or local condition may still apply. Travel below the legal maximum when necessary for safety.

🔗 nsw.gov.au • Australia, NSW official road-user guidance — slippery-road

Warning for a slippery road surface. Warning for a slippery road surface.

English • W5-20 • Slippery road. The road may be slippery, particularly when wet. Reduce speed and avoid sudden braking or steering.

Sources

🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Transport.nsw.gov.au • Transport for NSW • W5-20

SVG source: Standards Australia • Public domain • Original revision 2015-10-30. Wikimedia original unmodified.

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