Don't let black ice compromise your safety on the roadways.
When temperatures drop below freezing, motorists need to be on the lookout for black ice. Black ice refers to thin, translucent sheets of ice that form on the roadway. These patches of ice are notoriously difficult to spot and, if you drive over them recklessly, you can skid and lose control of your vehicle. If you want to stay safe while sharing the road with black ice, here are some things you should remember.
Be Extra Cautious on Bridges and Under Overpasses
Black ice most commonly forms on bridges and underneath overpasses. This is because bridges tend to freeze first, and because ice that forms underneath shadowy overpasses melts at a slower rate. So, if you are driving on a bridge or beneath an overpass, be extra cautious and vigilant while looking for patches of black ice.
Slow Down
Your chances of skidding increase when you hit a patch of ice at high speeds or when you attempt to hit your brakes while traveling over icy surfaces. Naturally, simply reducing your speed while driving through potentially icy conditions will lower your chances of skidding off the road or into another vehicle.
Switch Over to Winter Tires
If you live in an area that experiences extreme weather conditions, you should consider switching over to winter tires this season. Winter tires are specially designed with rubber that stays pliable even in extremely cold temperatures. Additionally, these tires feature deeper tread depths and more intricate tread patterns. These features allow winter tires to get better traction on the road, which will reduce your chances of slipping or skidding even if you drive over ice or snow.
These are some of the tips you should remember to help you safely deal with black ice. Want another way to stay safe on the road? Make sure you have the proper auto insurance protections in place. For assistance with all your car coverage needs,
contact the experts at
Club Agency Insurance Brokerage in Garden City, New York today.
