Black ice – the hidden threat of winter driving

Several of the staff at the pizza restaurant were discussing the treacherous driving conditions the other day. Outside, the wind was howling and snow was swirling like a dervish unleashed.

“I hit some black ice today,” the waitress said. “It was really scary.”

“What is black ice?” someone asked.

A delivery driver suggested that black ice is ice on the pavement that you can’t see. Another suggested that black ice is ice that is under the snow.

“So, if you can’t see it, how do you know it’s there?” another asked.

“You know it’s there when your car starts sliding,” said the waitress. “I sure knew it was there this afternoon.”

So, what is black ice? Here is the definition provided by Wikipedia:

“Black ice, sometimes called clear ice, refers to a thin coating of glazed ice on a surface. While not truly black, it is virtually transparent, allowing black asphalt/macadam roadways or the surface below to be seen through it—hence the term ‘black ice.’”

Usually, when we spot ice on the pavement, we adjust our speed accordingly and are more diligent about preparing for any eventuality that will cause us to react quickly. After all, quick reactions and ice don’t really mix well. But, if you can’t see the ice, it’s very difficult to adjust your driving.

About the only real solution is to be prepared for the possibility of black ice.

Ice forms on roads when the road, and air around it, are at temperatures low enough that moisture will freeze. Therefore, anytime it is cold enough for moisture to freeze on the road, whether it is freezing rain, previously melted snow or simply dew, fog or heavy humidity in the air, we should know that black ice is a distinct possibility.

The solution is to drive defensively, and all the more so when winter conditions present additional risks, such as black ice.

If you do find yourself sliding on black ice, try to slow your vehicle without jamming on the brakes. Likewise, be careful to avoid hitting the accelerator suddenly and hard. If possible, allow the vehicle to steer along its current path. If you do have to change directions, this is a point where you may have difficulty maintaining control of the vehicle, especially if you were going to fast when you came upon the black ice or if an unexpected situation has forced you to alter your speed or direction at that time.

The most important thing is to stay calm. Try to avoid hitting the brakes and gradually lift your foot off the accelerator. If your back end starts sliding out from behind you, gradually try to turn into the slide.

Remember, the more caution you apply in general, the more likely you’ll pass across black ice without serious incident.

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