Slippery When Wet Sign
The slippery when wet sign warns that the road surface loses traction significantly in wet conditions. Drivers must reduce speed below the normal limit when the road is wet, icy, or covered in leaves.
Last updated: April 4, 2026
This sign indicates that the road surface is particularly prone to becoming slippery during rain, frost, or other adverse conditions. The road may have a specific surface type, such as a bridge deck, a section treated with a paving material, or an approach to an underpass that stays shaded and icy long after surrounding roads have dried.
Quick Facts
Type
Warning Sign
Shape
Diamond
Colours
Yellow background with black skidding car symbol
In this guide
What does the Slippery When Wet Sign mean?
This sign indicates that the road surface is particularly prone to becoming slippery during rain, frost, or other adverse conditions. The road may have a specific surface type, such as a bridge deck, a section treated with a paving material, or an approach to an underpass that stays shaded and icy long after surrounding roads have dried.
What to do when you see it
Reduce speed significantly below the posted limit when conditions are wet or icy. Increase following distance to at least four seconds. Brake gently to avoid skidding. If your vehicle has antilock brakes, apply steady firm pressure: do not pump the brakes. Steer smoothly without sudden inputs.
Where you'll see it in Ontario
Slippery when wet signs are common at bridge approaches, underpasses that shade the road from sunlight, roads through wooded areas where leaves accumulate, and sections of road with concrete or other low-friction surfaces. They are also placed on approaches to railway crossings where the tracks and road surface meet.
G1 test relevance
G1 questions frequently use this sign to test knowledge of wet weather driving. Candidates should know that the sign applies not just to rain but to any condition that reduces traction, including light frost and wet leaves.
Common mistakes drivers make
Driving at the posted speed limit because rain appears light is a common mistake in these zones. Another error is using cruise control on a slippery road, which can cause a loss of control when the system applies throttle to maintain speed.
Related Signs
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The curve ahead sign warns drivers of a gradual curve in the road ahead. Drivers should reduce speed before entering the curve, not during it, to maintain control and stay in their lane.
Learn moreSteep Hill Downward Sign
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Learn moreRailway Crossing Sign
The railway crossing sign warns of an upcoming level crossing where road vehicles cross over railway tracks. Drivers must slow down and be prepared to stop if a train is approaching.
Learn moreSoft Shoulder Sign
The soft shoulder sign warns that the unpaved shoulder alongside the road is soft or unstable. If a vehicle's wheels drop off the pavement edge onto the shoulder, regaining control requires careful technique.
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