Warning sign · W333
Slippery road sign (W333)
The road surface may have reduced grip.
What does the slippery road sign mean?
The road surface may have reduced grip.
What should you do?
Reduce speed and steer and brake smoothly.
| Sign code | W333 |
|---|---|
| Sign group | Warning signs |
| Applies to | All learner codes (1, 2 and 3) |
| Test section | Road signs and markings |
How to recognise the slippery road sign
A triangle showing a car with wavy skid marks.
Where you will see it
On any road where the surface is unusually slippery. The warning applies for the next 2 km.
What to do when you see it, step by step
- Slow down.
- Sudden braking or harsh steering will start a skid sooner than usual.
The common mistake
Slippery means grip may be reduced. Rain, loose material or oil can all create it.
Why this sign matters
Slippery surfaces make a skid likelier than usual. The sign applies for the next 2 km so that you stay gentle for the whole stretch.
About warning signs
Warning signs tell you about a hazard ahead so you can slow down and prepare. They are red-bordered triangles. The K53 learner's test asks you to recognise signs like the slippery road sign (W333) and choose the correct response, so learn both the picture and the action.
How to answer a test question about this sign
- Look at the shape and colour first. They tell you the group: warning signs for this one.
- Recall what the sign asks of you: reduce speed and steer and brake smoothly.
- Remove the options that describe a different group of sign, then choose the response that matches the action.
Want the full explanation? Read the chapter Warning signs and temporary road controls.
Signs it is often confused with
Learners mix up signs that look or sound similar. Compare the slippery road sign with these:
Side road ahead (W107)A triangle showing your road continuing straight with a side road joining from the left.
Side road ahead (W108)A triangle showing a side road joining from the right.
Road narrows (W328)A triangle showing the road narrowing symmetrically from both sides.Test yourself: Slippery road sign questions
1 What does this sign mean?
- The road surface may have reduced grip.
- A height restriction applies ahead.
- A danger requiring extra caution lies ahead.
Show the answer
Answer A: The road surface may have reduced grip.
Reduce speed and steer and brake smoothly.
Memory tip: W333 · Slippery road
All vehicle codes
2 Which response fits this sign?
- Reduce speed and steer and brake smoothly.
- Read any supplementary plate and approach carefully.
- Check your vehicle and load height before proceeding.
Show the answer
Answer A: Reduce speed and steer and brake smoothly.
Slippery road: The road surface may have reduced grip.
Memory tip: Reduce speed and steer and brake smoothly.
All vehicle codes
Slippery road sign: quick questions
What does the slippery road sign (W333) mean?
The road surface may have reduced grip.
What should you do at the slippery road sign?
Slow down. Sudden braking or harsh steering will start a skid sooner than usual.
Where will you see the slippery road sign?
On any road where the surface is unusually slippery. The warning applies for the next 2 km.
What is the common mistake with the slippery road sign?
Slippery means grip may be reduced. Rain, loose material or oil can all create it.
Sign artwork: Southern African Development Community (SADC), public domain. AceK53 is an independent study aid. Always confirm test requirements with your driving licence testing centre.