Which areas tend to freeze first on a roadway?

The correct answer highlights that bridges, overpasses, and shaded spots are particularly prone to freezing first on roadways due to several factors related to their construction and environmental exposure. Bridges and overpasses are exposed to air on both the top and the bottom, which allows heat to dissipate more quickly than on regular roadways that are in contact with the ground. As a result, these structures can cool down faster, leading to the formation of ice more rapidly, especially when temperatures drop.

Shaded areas can also contribute to early freezing since they do not receive direct sunlight, preventing any warming that might otherwise mitigate freezing conditions. Consequently, drivers must be particularly cautious in these areas during cold weather, as black ice may form, making the road slick and hazardous.

In contrast, residential areas, highway entry points, and busy intersections might retain heat from vehicles and the ground due to traffic and surrounding structures, making them less susceptible to freezing as quickly.