Jeff Sheppard, Attorney in New Jersey Offers Tips on How to Survive Black Ice

Posted on: February 19, 2018
NEW JERSEY. New England and New Jersey have recently been walloped with several nor’easter storm systems. These systems bring with them snow, the potential for freezing rain, and cold weather. To make matters worse, these systems often result in drastically fluctuating temperatures. The cycle of thaw and freeze can create unique hazards on the road. Along with the stormy weather come unique driving risks. One of the bigger dangers of winter driving is black ice. What is it? And what can you do to protect yourself from accidents on it?

According to AccuWeather, black ice is the most dangerous weather-related threat to drivers. Black ice occurs when ice forms over pavement as the temperature hovers around 32 degrees, or the freezing point. While it might not be cold enough to snow, it is still cold enough for the rain to freeze on contact when it hits the pavement. This results in a thin sheen of ice that can lead to skids and crashes. Spring is a dangerous time for the development of black ice as the days thaw, snow melts, and the runoff can drain onto the road. If the temperature hovers around freezing, the water can freeze and melt, creating black ice.

Black ice can be very thin and can blend in with asphalt. It is a major cause of slip and fall accidents.

So, what can you do to protect yourself from black ice? First off, know when black ice is known to develop. Check the temperature before you get behind the wheel. If the temperature is hovering around freezing, the roads may be prone to develop black ice. Shaded roadways may also be more dangerous, because temperatures on the road may be cooler. Tree-covered roadways and driveways are locations where black ice is most likely to form.

According to the New York Times, black ice will look a little darker than the road surface. Bridges and overpasses can ice more easily, so drivers should take special precaution there.

Black ice can cause you to lose control of your vehicle. If you do encounter black ice and lose control of your car, don’t hit the brakes. Take your foot off the gas and steer your car in the direction you’d like to go.

Finally, if you are driving in the winter, slow down. The slower you are going if you do encounter black ice, the less likely you’ll be to lose control.

Winter driving safety is everyone’s responsibility. When drivers speed, drink and drive, or drive while distracted, they put everyone at risk. Jeff Sheppard is a personal injury attorney in New Jersey who has seen firsthand how devastating crashes can be. If you’ve been hurt in a car accident in New Jersey, consider reaching out to a qualified lawyer today. You may be entitled to receive damages for your medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Visit us at https://jeffsheppardesq.com/ to learn more.