What is a good indicator that ice may be forming on the roadway?

Answer: A — Your outside mirrors have ice on them

The presence of ice on your outside mirrors serves as a good indicator that ice may be forming on the roadway. Ice typically forms on surfaces that are exposed to cold temperatures, and if it is accumulating on mirrors, it’s likely that similar conditions exist on the road surface. When outside mirrors show signs of ice, it suggests that the temperature in that area has dropped low enough for moisture in the air to freeze upon contact with these cold surfaces. Mirror areas can be particularly prone to ice because they are often more exposed to wind and cold. While seeing no exhaust from other vehicles might indicate colder temperatures, it is not a direct indicator of ice on the road. Likewise, seeing spray from other vehicles typically suggests that the roads are wet rather than icy, indicating above-freezing conditions. Similarly, the simple fact that the temperature is below freezing is not a definitive indicator of ice unless combined with other visual evidence, such as the condition of exposed surfaces like mirrors. Hence, the presence of ice on mirrors stands out as a more immediate warning of potential icy conditions on the roadway.