black ice

1/10/2017 (Permalink)

black ice

Watch out for black ice

What is black ice?

Black ice is actually invisible ice that is almost totally transparent. It can easily catch drivers off-guard and cause crashes.

How and where does black ice form?

Black ice forms when the air temperature is warmer than pavement, which causes moisture to rapidly freeze and creates a thin, transparent layer of ice on the roadway.

What can I do to be safer?

• Slow down on bridges, overpasses and tunnels, and in the early morning when the air temperature is rising faster than the pavement temperature
• Avoid applying brakes on ice as it may cause a vehicle to skid
• Do not use cruise control during winter driving conditions
• Use a safe speed for winter driving conditions, regardless of the posted speed limit
• Keep a safe stopping distance from the vehicle in front of you
• Do not use a cell phone while driving and remember that texting is prohibited while driving in Minnesota
• Keep both hands on the steering wheel, your eyes on the road and your attention on your driving