Tips for driving on black ice.
Mother Nature has thrown some treacherous weather at us recently. Now that winter is approaching, we face new driving hazards we should all look out for. Temperatures that hover around the freezing mark create perfect conditions for fog, freezing fog, and black ice. Black ice is a thin sheet of ice that glazes on a surface and makes it very slick. One of the many dangers of black ice is that it is very difficult to see until you lose control of the vehicle. The lack of traction can lead to collisions, injuries, and more.
Be cautious in areas where black ice is likely.
Although black ice can form anywhere, it is likely to form on bridges, overpasses, shaded spots, and roads that are infrequently used. Use caution and slow down in these areas to prevent an issue.
Turn, brake, and drive slowly.
It’s not what you want to hear, but reducing your speed can help to prevent getting caught out on slippery roads this winter. Turn slowly and if you need to brake, do so slowly and carefully.
Maintain a safe distance.
Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and other cars when you’re driving in poor weather conditions. In winter, increase your following distance to 8-10 seconds so you have a longer distance between you and the next vehicle if you need to stop.
Avoid stopping.
If you can avoid it, try to avoid stopping. Black ice can make it difficult to start moving again, especially if you’re on a hill. If you see a red light up ahead, lift your foot off the brake and slow your speed rather than stopping completely.
What to Do If You Lose Control on Black Ice
If you do hit a patch of black ice and start to slide, take your foot off the accelerator and do not hit the brakes. Braking will lock your wheels and you’ll start to drift. Hold on to your steering wheel and make small corrections if you can, but avoid over-steering, as you could spin out.
We hope these tips help you to stay safe on black ice this winter. Do you need help finding the right car policy for your needs? Don’t hesitate to contact us at Kurt Rolf Insurance Agency. Serving Minnesota, Wisconsin, Florida, South Dakota, and Arizona; our dedicated team is ready to assist you with all your coverage needs.
