Driving during the winter means dealing with frosted windshields, colder temperatures, and snowy roadways — it also means dealing with black ice. “Black” ice isn’t black. It’s transparent. This is why it has the potential to be so dangerous. Oftentimes, drivers on the road aren’t able to detect it until it’s too late. Black ice accidents can be terrifying, often involving multiple vehicles and serious injuries. Understanding how to handle driving on ice can reduce your risk of being involved in a serious car accident.
What is Black Ice?
Black ice can form on roads, sidewalks, and driveways after a light freezing rain or the melting and refreezing of snow. Because it forms without bubbles, it appears transparent. This quality effectively makes it transparent and difficult to detect on the road in advance.
Where and When to Expect Black Ice
Typically, it forms at night or early morning when temperatures are lowest. Black ice will most commonly be located in areas without much sunshine, such as along a tree-lined route or tunnel. Roads are more likely to be present if they are less frequently traveled.
How to Tell if You’re Driving On Black Ice
In the right lighting conditions, detecting icy roads is sometimes possible. Dangerous conditions are most likely present if you see a smooth, glossy surface on the pavement. Sometimes, cars ahead of you may seem to swerve or slow down for no apparent reason. However, this may be due to black ice on the road.
Driving Tips
If you encounter black ice on the road, remember that it is very important to stay calm. Do not immediately hit your brakes, which could cause your vehicle to spin out. Instead, take your foot completely off the gas, and keep your steering wheel straight. Do as little as possible until your car passes over the ice.
Contact a New York Car Accident Lawyer
Drivers must be extra cautious on roadways during the winter. Unfortunately, accidents happen all the time. You have the right to seek compensation if you or a loved one has been injured in a car wreck because of a reckless or negligent driver who failed to exercise caution when driving in inclement weather. At Hach & Rose, LLP, our team of experienced New York car accident lawyers can help you get the justice you deserve when you call us at (212) 779-0057 to discuss your case.