Slippery roadPhilippines

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Philippines. 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.


1. 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.

What can make roads slippery in the Philippines?

Rain, standing water, mud and loose material can reduce grip. Ice or other contamination can make it worse where present, and grip can vary across the road. Adapt speed and following distance to the actual surface and weather.

🔗 issuances-library.senate.gov.ph • Philippines RA 4136 — Sections 35–54: prudent speed, traffic controls, safe circulation and local/facility restrictions

🔗 lto.gov.ph • LTO — Filipino Driver’s Manual, volume 1, 2nd edition; relevant official indexed excerpts, full download blocked

How should you drive on a slippery road in the Philippines?

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.

🔗 issuances-library.senate.gov.ph • Philippines RA 4136 — Sections 35–54: prudent speed, traffic controls, safe circulation and local/facility restrictions

🔗 lto.gov.ph • LTO — Filipino Driver’s Manual, volume 1, 2nd edition; relevant official indexed excerpts, full download blocked

Does a slippery-road warning sign in the Philippines 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.

🔗 issuances-library.senate.gov.ph • Philippines RA 4136 — Sections 35–54: prudent speed, traffic controls, safe circulation and local/facility restrictions

🔗 lto.gov.ph • LTO — Filipino Driver’s Manual, volume 1, 2nd edition; relevant official indexed excerpts, full download blocked

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

English • Traffic sign W5-9 • Slippery road. Avoid sudden braking or turning and adjust your speed to the conditions.

Filipino • W5-9 • Madulas na kalsada. Maaaring madulas ang kalsada sa unahan. Iwasan ang biglang pagpreno at pagliko; magbagal ayon sa kondisyon.

Sources

🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Fliphtml5.com • LTO • Road Traffic Signs & Pavement Markings • p. 18 (pampublikong kopya)
🔗 Lto.gov.ph • LTO • opisyal na materyal
🔗 Scribd.com • DPWH • W5-9 (pampublikong kopya)

SVG source: Department of Public Works and Highways (Philippines) Sign redrawn by TagaSanPedroAko. • Public domain • Original revision 2015-08-07. Wikimedia original unmodified.