Highway pavement will be particularly treacherous and most slippery:
Answers
If it has been raining several hours.
If it has just begun to rain.
If it has been raining for one to two hours.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is:
If it has just begun to rain.
Explanation:
Highway pavement is most treacherous and slippery when it has just started to rain. This initial period of rainfall creates the highest risk for drivers due to the combination of water and the oils, dirt, and debris that accumulate on the road surface over time. When rain first hits the pavement, the water mixes with these oils and contaminants, creating a very slick and hazardous surface. This mixture forms an oily film that can cause a significant reduction in traction, making it difficult for tires to grip the road effectively.
As the rain continues, the water tends to wash away much of the oil and debris from the road, which can somewhat reduce the slipperiness. After one to two hours of rainfall, the surface may still be wet, but it generally becomes less slippery than during the initial onset of rain. The continued rain helps clear the top layer of contaminants, allowing for more traction between the road and the tires, even though conditions can still be slippery.
Another reason that the first rain is particularly dangerous is that drivers are often not prepared for it, especially if the weather has been dry for an extended period. This leads to an increased risk of skidding or losing control of the vehicle as drivers may not adjust their driving behavior immediately to the new, slippery road conditions.
In conclusion, the initial period after rain begins is the most hazardous for drivers due to the combination of wet pavement, lingering oils and debris, and potentially reduced driver awareness. Road safety experts recommend that drivers exercise extra caution, reduce their speed, and maintain a safe following distance when it has just started to rain, as these conditions can make driving much more challenging.