Beware of Black Ice on the Roads

Black ice forms on roads and pavements, so-called black because of the colour of the road it forms on. The coat of frozen water is transparent because it is so thin and therefore almost impossible to see.

Black ice typically occurs when the temperature rises above freezing and snow on the ground melts, making road surfaces wet. The temperature then drops below freezing, turning this moisture on the road to ice.

Overpasses and bridges are common places for black ice to form because of cold air flowing under the road, lowering the temperature of the surface. Also parts of the road that are shaded by trees or other objects can typical areas for black ice.

On encountering black ice, keep your steering wheel straight. Turning the wheel increases the chance of sliding and losing control of your vehicle. Also, braking hard will cause your vehicle to slide. Reduce your speed by taking your foot off the accelerator – it’s best to let your vehicle stop by itself, providing you have enough room in front of you.

Safe driving from Britannia!