Freezing rainUnited States
Learn traffic rules with clear explanations and visual examples in our illustrated book, designed to make studying simple and engaging.
256. Freezing rain
Freezing rain occurs when supercooled raindrops freeze on contact with cold roads, vehicles and other surfaces, creating a thin layer of ice. This can make roads extremely slippery even when they appear wet rather than frozen. Drivers should reduce speed, increase their following distance and avoid sudden acceleration, steering or braking. Bridges, shaded sections and untreated roads can become particularly hazardous, and conditions may change quickly as freezing rain continues.
Wikimedia.org • Famartin • CC BY-SA
What is freezing rain?
Freezing rain is rain that freezes when it reaches a sufficiently cold surface, forming a layer of ice on roads, vehicles and other objects.
Why is freezing rain dangerous for drivers?
Freezing rain can create very slippery and difficult-to-see ice, greatly reducing tyre grip and making steering and braking more difficult.
Is freezing rain the same as snow?
No. Snow falls as frozen crystals, while freezing rain falls as liquid droplets that freeze when they reach a cold surface.
Can freezing rain cause black ice?
Yes. Freezing rain can create a thin, transparent layer of ice that is difficult to distinguish from a wet road and is often described as black ice.
How should you drive in freezing rain?
Reduce speed, increase your following distance and use smooth acceleration, steering and braking. Avoid unnecessary driving if conditions become extremely slippery.
Where is freezing rain most dangerous?
Extra caution is needed on bridges, exposed roads, shaded areas and untreated surfaces, where ice may form quickly or remain longer.

Traffic rules
United States