How to Avoid Skidding on Black Ice
Any time the road appears to be wet and shiny and the temperature is below freezing, there is a good chance that there is black ice. During the daylight hours, the sun may have melted existing snow and ice, leaving a wet surface that freezes once the temperature drops. There may also have been freezing rain or sleet, which can produce the same results.
Black ice is one of those winter hazards that you don’t want to encounter unexpectedly. Unfortunately, due to its very nature, it is almost impossible to detect until it is too late. This particular form of ice forms quickly on otherwise clean pavement and roadways. Unlike the normal ice and snow that can be easily detected due to its white color, black ice is so thin that the pavement shows through, giving it its name. Even though it is thin, it is just as dangerous as any other road ice, and more so, since it is often indistinguishable from an ordinary wet road.Once you have encountered black ice, gently lift your foot off of the accelerator, and slow down, keeping the tires straight and the vehicle on a direct course. Never panic, and slam on the brakes, or try to swerve over to the side of the road, where there may be more traction. Any sudden moves can and will send the vehicle into a slide that may be all but impossible to correct.Stay away from other vehicles. If you are near another car, slowing down should put some distance between your car and theirs. Not only might this prevent a rear end collision, in the event they lose control of their vehicle, it may keep you out of the way. If there are cars approaching, keep your vehicle moving in a straight line, well away from the center line. If it is necessary to move over, turn the wheel gently and gradually until you have changed position, and then straighten the wheel once more.Starting and stopping are the two most dangerous endeavors on black ice. Even the most weather worthy tires will have a tendency to slip and slide. Leave yourself plenty of room for stopping, and do so by coasting and applying the brake only gently if you must. When starting, take your foot off of the brake, and gradually move forward. If you do find yourself sliding, turn the wheel in the direction of the slide, until you can regain control and straighten out the wheels.The best way to keep from sliding on black ice is to learn how to identify it, and if you can, avoid it entirely.
