Driving can be tedious when winter arrives. This is especially true after a snowfall, during a whiteout, or when the roads are extremely icy. Fortunately, driving procedures can help us stay safe on the road during typical snowfall. However, driving on black ice can be a distinct challenge, even for experienced drivers. These conditions are dangerous and, in some cases, can lead to life-threatening accidents. Generally, it is recommended to avoid driving on black ice at all costs, though sometimes it can appear when you least expect it. Here’s what you need to know regarding black ice and how to stay safe when driving on it.
What is Black Ice?
Like regular ice, black ice forms on pavement after freezing rain or when water or snow refreezes. Black ice often forms when the air temperature is warmer than the road temperature. Because of this difference, moisture in the air freezes when it contacts the ground. When temperatures drop quickly, black ice can form because water on the road has not yet evaporated before freezing. Black ice gets its name when it forms without bubbles and is therefore completely transparent. This makes it extremely dangerous to see, as it blends into the surface.
How Can I Spot Black Ice?
Because black ice is entirely transparent, spotting it can be challenging. This makes driving on black ice extremely dangerous. To spot black ice, it is best to anticipate when and where it can happen. For example, bridges are common spots for ice to form. Temperatures beneath the bridge may be cooler than on the road, leading to black ice. It is common for patches of black ice to form in the morning or evening, when temperatures typically drop below freezing. When on the road, it is essential to keep a close eye on the vehicle ahead and maintain a safe distance. If you see them braking or swerving suddenly, the road ahead may be icy.
Driving on Black Ice: How Do I Stay Safe?
Knowing the signs of black ice is only the first step to staying cautious. To stay safe, remember how to navigate when driving on black ice. It is essential to brush up on traditional winter driving tips and to be on the lookout for areas you may not know contain black ice. Here are a few tips on how to navigate through black ice!
1. Be Cautious
This may seem like common sense, but staying cautious on the road is crucial when driving on black ice. Speeding, sudden lane changes, and following too closely can all lead to dangerous collisions with you or other drivers. The risk is significantly higher when black ice is present. When roads are icy, stopping distances are twice those on dry roads. It is essential always to leave space, slow down, and be aware of other vehicles on the road. This will help ensure you arrive at your destination safely and reduce the stress of winter driving.
2. Use Winter Tires
Winter tires provide your vehicle with greater control in icy conditions. This will significantly improve your vehicle’s safety. So much so that provincial governments offer discounts on insurance premiums to those who install winter tires on their car during the colder seasons. While winter tires can be expensive, the cost of insurance after an accident is much higher. Additionally, you cannot put a price on your safety. For more information on winter tires, check out our article Winter Tires 101.
3. Stay Calm and Prepare
Unfortunately, if you live in a colder climate, you will likely encounter black ice. One of the most essential tips for staying safe on black ice is knowing how to navigate it when necessary. Becoming familiar with how ice impacts your stopping distance and vehicle handling is essential. Driving in slippery conditions, such as an empty, snow-covered, or ice-covered parking lot, is a great way to prepare. It is crucial to understand how your car reacts when you suddenly brake. Make sure that when you practice, your winter tires are on!
Driving on Black Ice: What Happens if I Start to Slide?
Preventing skidding is a key objective when driving on black ice. Even with the proper winter tires, following the correct steps to keep yourself safe is essential. However, by following the steps below, you can maintain complete control of your vehicle and prevent accidents. If you find yourself on black ice, avoid skidding by:
- Staying calm.
- Do not overreact and keep your vehicle headed straight.
- Keep your car straight and take your foot off the gas.
- Do not hit the brakes; this will cause you to slide.
- Place your hands at nine and three o’clock; this will give you better control over the vehicle, rather than the usually recommended ten and two.
If you start to slide, it is essential to remember to stay calm. Please keep your eyes on where you want to go, not where you’re afraid of going. In an alarming situation like this, you may have the instinct to look for vehicles on the road. This can be dangerous! Remember to give your steering wheel a slight turn in the same direction your back end is headed to get yourself back on track. Gently brake if you’re skidding, using the heel-and-toe method. This involves using your toes to pump the brakes, keeping your steering wheel gently pointed in the direction you want the car to go. Also, you can use your anti-lock brake system if your vehicle has one.
Driving on Black Ice: Conclusion
At the end of the day, the most important thing to remember when encountering black ice is to stay calm! By following the steps above, you can avoid injury when driving in below-freezing temperatures. If the unfortunate happens and you are in an accident, having the proper auto insurance in place is crucial. Contact us or request a quote today, and we can help you find the right insurance policy for your needs.
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