Washington’s winter roads are notorious for black ice; do you know how to drive safely on them?
Driving Safely on Black Ice in Washington State: Tips for Navigating Icy Roads
Black ice, my least favorite road hazard, is common in Washington during the winter. It is critical to understand the dangers of driving in icy conditions, particularly after overnight freezing or when parts of the road are in shadow from the sun.
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Seattle recently issued a warning for “black ice” conditions due to melting snow refreezing overnight, resulting in slick roads that are difficult to see.
What is Black Ice?
Despite its name, black ice is actually a thin, transparent layer of ice that forms on the road and is difficult to see. Because it is invisible to drivers, it frequently appears to be regular pavement without ice. Black ice forms when melting snow or water refreezes overnight, or when there is light freezing rain.
It can form on any surface, but it is particularly dangerous on roads, sidewalks, and driveways because it blends in with the surroundings.
In Washington, black ice can be found in places with little sunlight, such as shaded roads, tree-lined paths, and tunnels. Bridges and overpasses are particularly susceptible to black ice because the exposed road is cooled from both the top and bottom, resulting in faster freezing. Knowing where to look for black ice can help you avoid an accident.
When and Where to Expect Black Ice
Black ice usually forms in the early morning or late evening, when temperatures are lowest. Black ice is more likely to form on roads that are not exposed to sunlight or are less heavily traveled.
Temperatures in Washington State can fluctuate quickly, so be prepared and cautious during morning commutes. If you see cars swerving or sliding for no apparent reason, check for black ice. Look for shinier, slicker spots on the road, which can be signs of dangerous ice patches.
Tips for Driving on Black Ice
Slow Down: One of the best ways to stay safe is just to slow down. Driving slowly gives you more control and lowers the chances of skidding or losing traction. Never use cruise control during icy conditions because it could cause loss of control.
Keep Your Distance: Avoid tailgating other vehicles and maintain a safe distance. If the driver in front suddenly swerves, it could be due to black ice, and you must be prepared to react safely.
Look for Shiny Surfaces: Black ice is mostly transparent but look closely for a glossy, slick appearance. In the right light conditions, these glossy patches are easier to see but at night, they are much harder to spot.
Stay Calm: If you hit a patch of black ice, do not panic. Keep your steering wheel straight and avoid slamming the brakes. Let the car naturally pass over the ice. If your car starts to skid, gently steer in the direction of the skid (like Lightning McQueen in Cars). Sudden, sharp movements can cause a loss of control when you hit traction again, so always remain as calm as possible.
Prepare Your Car: Make sure your car is ready for winter driving. Check your tire tread and consider installing proper snow tires if you drive in icy conditions often. If you have ABS, get to know how it feels when it engages so that in an emergency you avoid panicking and react correctly.
Know When to Stop: If conditions become too dangerous, it may be best to pull over and wait until the road conditions improve. It’s safer to wait at a rest stop or safe area than to risk driving on icy roads.
Remember to stay informed, drive slowly, and look for signs of black ice. When in doubt, it’s always safer to take extra precautions than to risk an accident.
