The presence of oil on a highway can cause the surface to become very slippery, resulting in accidents if drivers are not careful.
Risk factors for slippery conditions:
(1) asphalt road exposed to hot and dry conditions followed by a light rain (The dry heat allows oil to separate and collect in the asphalt. A light rain allows the oil to come to the surface wthout washing it away)
(2) fresh asphalt
(3) oil that has leaked from multiple vehicles over time and accumulated
(4) an accident with release of oil
(5) intentional release.
The presence of water or ice can further increase the slipperiness of the road surface.
The risk of accidents can be reduced by:
(1) being aware of the risk
(2) slowing down
(3) increasing the distance between vehicles
(4) avoiding sudden turns or braking
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