Black Ice Driving Safety Tips

Watch out for black ice on the roadways this winter.

If you live in an area where the temperatures routinely drop below freezing, you face the risk of black ice. Black ice is a thin, transparent sheet of ice that forms on the roadway. It's called back ice because the color of the asphalt shines through, making it difficult to see when driving. To protect yourself from black ice this winter, here are some tips you should try.

Monitor Weather Conditions

Before you set out on the road, check your local weather forecast. If temperatures are expected to drop below freezing, and there is a chance of precipitation, there's an increased chance that the roadways will be icy. This isn't a surefire way to predict black ice, but it will help you be ready for the possibility.

Stay Vigilant

Because black ice is transparent, it is difficult to spot it when you are driving. However, there are certain things that give it away. For instance, if there are spots on the road that appear darker than others, or if there are sections of road that the sun seems to glint off of, these are good indicators of black ice. Also, black ice tends to form on bridges and under overpasses, so make sure to exercise extra caution when driving through these areas.

Reduce Your Speed

If you hit a patch of black ice, there's a possibility of your car skidding off the road or into another vehicle. You can reduce your chance of skidding by simply reducing your speed. By driving slower and avoiding slamming on your brakes, your tires can maintain better traction on the road, and you can avoid getting into an accident.

These are some of the steps you should take to stay safe while driving in icy conditions. Want another way to stay safe as you drive this winter? Make sure you have the right auto insurance protections in place. For assistance with your car coverage, contact the experts at Scavone Insurance in White Plains, New York today.