Which surfaces tend to freeze before highways and roads?

Bridges and ramps tend to freeze before highways and roads due to their construction and exposure. Unlike regular road surfaces, which are insulated by the ground beneath them, bridges and ramps are elevated structures that are exposed to air on both sides. This allows cold air to circulate around them, causing them to lose heat more rapidly. As a result, moisture can freeze on these surfaces sooner than it would on regular pavement that retains heat from the ground beneath. This phenomenon makes bridges and ramps particularly hazardous in cold weather conditions, necessitating increased caution when driving over them. Understanding this factor can greatly enhance driver safety during winter months.