Drivers should be well aware of the necessity of checking the conditions on the road while driving. The majority of the time, drivers can see possible hazards and can easily avoid them. However, there are times in which the driver may not spot an approaching danger. Tragically, this can occur during winter weather with black ice.
Definition and Formation
Black ice isn’t really black; it’s clear and translucent when it forms. Unlike regular ice, which has an opaque coloring, black ice that is known to be more dangerous than regular ice. It is exceedingly challenging to notice and is often virtually unrecognizable. Black Ice forms on surfaces like roads, sidewalks and driveways after changes in temperature causes rain to freeze rain or due to some melting and refreezing of snow or ice.
In spite of the fact that black ice can develop on any road, it is most frequently seen on bridges and overpasses because the air traveling beneath the structures can make the surfaces colder. Patches of black ice can also form on surfaces that are shaded by trees or other structures where the temperatures may be a bit lower than surrounding areas.
How to avoid hazardous results while encountering Black Ice
Black ice can be very difficult, sometimes impossible to see. Therefore, you may not be aware that you are driving onto an icy patch until its too late. As a precaution, adjust your speed, pay attention to other drivers, and leave enough distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you as you drive to account for the overall road and weather conditions.
Tires on black ice will have almost no traction, in contrast to driving on snow, where there is still some traction. The best advice is to maintain your composure and let the car slow down on its own if you find yourself slipping on black ice.
Avoid slamming on the brakes if you drive onto an ice patch and your car starts to slide. You can find yourself losing control of your car and skidding further. Instead, let off the gas to regain control and keep the car from veering off the road and into the slide.
Precautions to keep in mind.
- Make absolutely sure your car is maintained properly. The best action you can take is to be organized.
- Recognize where and how black ice develops. You can drive safely if you keep a close eye on your surroundings when you think there might be black ice on the road.
- Maintain a safe distance from other motorists because, in actuality, they might not be as knowledgeable or well-prepared as you are. Keeping a safe distance from other drivers will improve your chances of avoiding being involved in their errors.
- Drive carefully. No matter where we need to go, the safety of you and those around us are always more important. When the roads are slippery with ice, take your time getting there, or try to stay at home until the situation is a little less dangerous.
Steps to take in case of an unfortunate event
You should get in touch with an accomplished personal injury attorney if you are hurt in an accident where you suspect black ice. At Siler & Ingber, we assist those who have suffered injuries in incidents on icy roads and other winter driving mishaps. We would be happy to talk to you about any accidents you may have had, the types of injuries you may have had, and any potential benefits you may be eligible for.