We have reached the coldest month of the year in Pennsylvania and throughout the mid-Atlantic region. Freezing temperatures combined with wet roadways can create black ice. According to the Federal Highway Administration, upwards of 150,000 car accidents occur every year on icy roads across the country. Many of these serious crashes are caused by black ice.
Despite the name, black ice really is not black at all. It is clear ice that forms as moisture freezes on the road surface. Because it looks like spots of wetness and has few air bubbles, drivers either do not see it or assume it is water and proceed normally, not realizing just how slippery it can be.
Tips for Driving on Black Ice
- Use caution: If the temperature outside is near or below freezing temperatures, you should assume any wet patch you see on the street is black ice. This extra bit of caution will help you approach these dangerous patches carefully.
- Take it slow: Take these patches of black ice extra slowly. Because they are smooth and flat, your tires are unable to gain traction. As soon as you hit the ice, take your foot off the accelerator and gently coast across it. Keep your wheel straight as sudden turns can cause you to skid out.
- Keep your foot off the brake: If you hit an unexpected patch of black ice, take your foot off the brake. If you need to slow down, you should pump the brakes slightly to prevent a full-blown skid. Never slam on the brakes under any circumstances.
- Turn into the skid: If you find yourself skidding out, gently turn the wheel in the direction of the skid and then forward again. Turning against the skid will only send you into a spin, causing you to lose control.
What to Do If You Crash on Black Ice
Spinning out on black ice can be incredibly frightening but knowing what to do if it happens can help reduce the likelihood of a crash. If you are involved in a crash resulting in physical injuries to you or others, you should contact an experienced car accident lawyer immediately to discuss your claim and protect your rights.
Allegheny County Car Accident Lawyers at AlpernSchubert P.C. Help Injured Car Accident Victims
Car accidents take a physical, emotional, and financial toll on everyone involved. If you are dealing with the aftermath of a crash, contact the skilled Allegheny County car accident lawyers at AlpernSchubert P.C. We devote the time and attention your legal matter deserves to put you on the best path to justice. To learn more about all the legal services we offer personal injury clients, call us at 412-765-1888 or contact us online for a free consultation. Based in Pittsburgh, we represent clients throughout western Pennsylvania, including Lawrence County, Washington County, and Allegheny County.