Final answer:
In low temperatures, a road that looks black and shiny should be approached with caution due to the potential presence of black ice, which is difficult to see and can cause vehicles to lose traction.
Step-by-step explanation:
When driving in low temperatures, especially during winter conditions, you should be particularly cautious if the road ahead looks black and shiny. This appearance could indicate that the road is icy, commonly referred to as black ice. Black ice is almost invisible and can cause your vehicle to lose traction, leading to loss of control and potential accidents.
The color of the surface is a crucial factor in road safety during cold weather. Darker surfaces like asphalt can get significantly colder at night than lighter surfaces because dark colors radiate heat more effectively. Hence, a dark gray road might be colder and potentially icier than a light gray or white road in the same conditions.
Therefore, a black and shiny surface might not only be wet but could also be a sign of black ice formation due to its excellent radiative cooling properties, making it essential to drive cautiously or avoid if possible.