What is the recommended action when you encounter a slick road surface?

The recommended action when encountering a slick road surface is to reduce speed and avoid sudden movements. This approach is essential for maintaining control of your vehicle in slippery conditions. When the road surface is slick, such as in rain, ice, or snow, the risk of losing traction increases significantly. By reducing your speed, you allow for more time to react to any changes in the driving environment, which helps to prevent skidding or losing control.

Additionally, avoiding sudden movements—such as rapid steering or harsh braking—helps to maintain stability and decreases the likelihood of hydroplaning or sliding. Gradual adjustments to your speed and direction provide a safer method for navigating treacherous roads, ultimately allowing for more effective handling of your vehicle under adverse conditions.

The other options generally lead to unsafe practices, such as increasing speed or abrupt braking, which can exacerbate the risk of losing control on slick surfaces. Using cruise control is also inadvisable as it may not allow for the necessary quick responses that changing road conditions require. Therefore, reducing speed and making smooth, deliberate maneuvers is the most effective strategy when dealing with slick roads.