Due to the fact that it’s invisible to drivers, black ice is extremely dangerous. After all, since you can’t see the ice, you’re more likely to strike it at a high rate of speed, which increases the risk of an accident.
Fortunately, when you understand where black ice is more likely to form, you can protect yourself accordingly. Here’s what you need to know:
- Black ice is most common when temperatures are right around freezing: Keep an eye on local weather reports and your car’s temperature gauge, so you know if black ice is more likely on the roads you’re traveling.
- No sun increases the likelihood of black ice: For this reason, it’s more common during the evening, nighttime and early morning hours. When you add in the fact that no sun lessens visibility, the chance of an accident is greater.
- Bridges and overpasses are more susceptible: Since cold air is able to travel below and above the roadway, it’s more likely to freeze.
If you hit a patch of black ice, immediately slow down. There’s a good chance there is more ice waiting for you up ahead.
Even if you’re cautious about how you travel in inclement weather, you’ll find that others don’t care nearly as much. For example, they continue to drive fast despite the presence of ice and/or snow on the road.
If one of these drivers causes an accident, move to safety and call 911 for help. Only after you receive treatment should you call your insurance company and collect documentation that can help you hold the negligent driver responsible for causing the accident.
