As a teen, I learned to drive in the spring and summer before getting my license in the fall. That meant that by the time winter rolled around in Northeast Ohio, I had no experience driving in the snow or on icy roads. It was only a few months after earning my license that I experienced driving on black ice by myself for the first time. I was driving home from running an errand when I felt myself lose control of my car. Even though I had been a very diligent driver’s education student, in that moment, everything I learned about black ice vanished from my head. I froze, which was better than slamming on the brakes, at least! Luckily, it was a small patch of ice and I felt my tires regain traction almost immediately. When I got home, I immediately researched what to do when you hit black ice so that I was prepared for when it happened again.
Black ice, a nearly invisible layer of frozen water on roads, is a dangerous winter driving hazard. It can be incredibly slippery, catching drivers off guard and leading to serious collisions. Understanding the science behind black ice can help you spot it and avoid it, keeping you and your passengers safe.
What is Black Ice?
Black ice forms when temperatures are near or below freezing, and moisture on the road surface freezes rapidly. Unlike snow or slush, which is easily visible, black ice is almost transparent, making it difficult to detect. It often appears as a dark, wet patch on the road, giving it the name "black ice."
How to Spot Black Ice
Black ice can be hard to see. Here are some clues to look out for:
- Dark, shiny patches on the road: Black ice can be hard to spot, but look out for patches of road that look shiny compared to the rest of the road.
- Fog or mist: Moisture in the air can condense and freeze on cold roads, especially in the early morning or late evening.
- Recent temperature drops: If the temperature has dropped below freezing after precipitation, black ice is more likely to form.
- Bridges and overpasses: These areas lose heat faster than regular roads, making them hotspots for black ice.
Tips for Driving on Black Ice
If you do encounter black ice, here’s what to do to stay safe:
- Stay calm: Panicking can make the situation worse. Remain as composed as possible.
- Avoid sudden movements: Sudden braking, accelerating, or steering can cause your vehicle to lose traction completely.
- Take your foot off the gas: Allow your car to decelerate naturally rather than braking.
- Steer gently: If your car begins to slide, steer gently in the direction of the skid to regain control.
- Keep your distance: Increase the space between you and other vehicles to allow for more reaction time.
By understanding the science of black ice and following these tips, you can significantly reduce your risk of collisions and stay safe on the roads this winter.
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As a teen, I learned to drive in the spring and summer before getting my license in the fall. That meant that by the time winter rolled around in Northeast Ohio, I had no experience driving in the snow or on icy roads. It was only a few months after earning my license that I experienced driving on black ice by myself for the first time. I was driving home from running an errand when I felt myself lose control of my car. Even though I had been a very diligent driver’s education student, in that moment, everything I learned about black ice vanished from my head. I froze, which was better than slamming on the brakes, at least! Luckily, it was a small patch of ice and I felt my tires regain traction almost immediately. When I got home, I immediately researched what to do when you hit black ice so that I was prepared for when it happened again.