Alberta Class 7 License Practice Test

What should you do when the asphalt looks shiny and black?

1. Increase speed carefully

2. Maintain your current speed

3. Reduce speed without braking

4. Stop and assess the road

The correct answer is: Reduce speed without braking

When the asphalt appears shiny and black, it usually indicates the presence of moisture on the pavement, often due to rain or melting ice. This condition makes the road slippery, increasing the likelihood of losing traction and control of the vehicle. Reducing speed without braking is the appropriate response because it allows the driver to navigate the potentially hazardous conditions safely. By easing off the accelerator, you can decrease your speed smoothly, helping to maintain control of the vehicle without the risk of skidding that can occur when you brake suddenly on slippery surfaces. This approach enhances safety for both the driver and others on the road. Maintaining your current speed or increasing it can lead directly to losing control, while stopping and assessing may not be practical or safe in a driving situation where there is traffic present. Therefore, reducing speed without braking best prepares the driver to handle the reduced traction effectively.