In which phase of intensive rain is the asphalt roadway more slippery?
Show the correct answer
Correct answer
A. Initial phase.
Explanation
An asphalt roadway is most slippery in the initial phase of heavy rain - answer A. The first drops mix with dust, soot, oil and rubber deposited on the asphalt, forming a slippery emulsion. Only longer rain washes this layer away and grip partly returns, although it is still worse than on a dry road.
That is why, when it starts to rain, you slow down and increase your following distance at once, instead of waiting until "it really starts pouring". The Road Traffic Act requires you to adjust your speed to the weather conditions and the condition of the road surface. In this phase, junctions and bus stops are especially treacherous, because that is where most oil from vehicles collects on the asphalt.
Legal basis: Art. 19 para. 1 of the Road Traffic Act (Prawo o ruchu drogowym)