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Driving in Icy Conditions & Black Ice on the Road

Driving in Icy Conditions & Black Ice on the Road

As the temperatures drop throughout the winter months, driving can become tricky.

The risk posed by ice, including the hidden dangers of black ice on the road, can transform even the shortest journeys into a challenge.

The fact that stopping distances can increase to over ten times the distance on icy roads, attests to this.

However, if you have the right knowledge and understand the techniques you need to adapt, then driving on ice and black ice need not be too difficult.

Understand the Hazards

What Is Black Ice?

Black ice is a thin and transparent layer of ice. It forms when water freezes on either paths or roads.

Despite the name, black ice isn’t actually black. It’s nearly invisible. It has not air bubbles and so it blends seamlessly in with the colour of the tarmac. Making it extremely hard to spot.

Where Does Black Ice Form?

Black ice on the road is most likely to develop in shaded areas. Or, on bridges and in tunnels. Areas of the roads that are likely to suffer from the surface temperatures dropping very quickly and take longer to warm up.

One of the ways to spot black ice is if the road appears to have a glossy sheen.

Black Ice On Road

Before You Drive: Essential Preparations

To make sure you can tackle the hazards of driving on ice, it’s important to make sure you prepare for your journey appropriately.

Some key aspects of this include:

Driving on ice

Once you’re on the road, the key to remaining safe is driving in a smooth and cautious manner.

1. Take It Slow

Speed is not a good idea when driving in icy roads. Try to drive at a slower pace than usual. This will give you enough time to react hazards.

2. Gentle Movements

Accelerate, brake, and steer as smoothly as possible. This is the best way to try and avoid skidding. If your car is manual, and it is possible, pull away in second gear. This increases torque and reduces wheel spin.

3. Maintain a 10x Stopping Distance

Leave plenty of room between you and the car in front. It is recommended that you should leave around 10 times the usual distance. Giving you enough time to stop. Even on icy roads.

Car driving on ice

Black Ice on the Road

Once you realise you are driving on black ice the main thing is to remain calm.

To give yourself the best chance of avoiding an accident, try to follow these steps:

  1. Don’t Panic. It is important that you keep movement of the steering wheel steady. Resist the urge to brake suddenly.
  2. Ease Off the Accelerator. Let your car’s speed reduce gradually. It is best to avoid the brakes where possible. Sudden braking can cause the tyres to lose traction on the ice.
  3. Steer Gently. If you feel your car starting to skid. The best advice is to steer into the skid. Practically, this means that if the rear is sliding right, steer right). Try to refrain from jerking the wheel. This can make things worse quickly.
  4. Don’t Overreact. Generally, patches of black ice patches are short. And you should be over them quickly. Focus on maintaining control.

Driving on Black Ice in an Electric Vehicle

Driving an EV in winter can feel different from a vehicle that is powered by an internal combustion engine. The following are some key considerations for EV owners.

Extra Tips for Black Ice Conditions

Ice on road

Driving on Ice In Winter

Winter driving doesn’t have to be intimidating.

Prepare your car, drive cautiously, and know the best way to deal with hazards like black ice. Then you have a much better chance of staying safe on the roads.

For peace of mind, make sure your car is equipped with the right tyres – all season tyres and winter tyres make a lot of difference at this time of the year.

If you are in need to new car tyres, you can browse our full range to ensure you’re ready for whatever winter throws your way.

Stay Safe This Winter!

Buy new tyres at Blackcircles.com
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