Singapore being in the tropics, we have many sunny days the whole year, but that’s not the case everywhere else! If you’re driving in another country during the winter spell, it’s essential to be prepared for unfamiliar hazards like black ice, which often forms when temperatures dip below freezing.

Black ice is a thin, hard-to-spot layer of ice that forms on roads, and is so named because of its almost invisible nature – it is transparent and blends into the tarmac. One of the biggest dangers associated with black ice is that you won’t notice it until you’re actually on it, which means you may have already suddenly started skidding and losing control of your car!

Where can black ice usually be found?

Black ice is common in areas with colder temperatures, such as shaded spots and beneath high bridges and overpasses due to faster freezing below and above. They can also be found in tunnels, on tree-lined roads, and less frequented roads.

Here are some tips to help you conquer safe driving where black ice commonly appears.

Stay Calm and Don’t Panic

As with all other emergencies, the worst thing to do when you find yourself driving on black ice is to lose your cool and panic. Rather than act impulsively, the best next course of action is to quickly evaluate what to do next, as soon as possible.

Go Slow

The rule of thumb in driving in winter is to go slow, regardless if black ice is present. This is because driving at reduced speeds buys you extra time to react, and for your tyres to retain grip. In the case of black ice encounters, don’t panic – release your foot from the accelerator slowly, firmly steer in s straight line towards a safe place such as the road shoulder, and let your car come to a natural stop. Do not oversteer as it will cause the car to spin, and do not brake as it will cause the car to skid!

Bright Idea

Although black ice is nearly invisible, using your headlights, even during the day, can help you spot it as the light that reflects off the ice is brighter, giving you a warning as you approach. However, to prevent your lights from dazzling other drivers, keep them on low beam.

Safe Distancing

Do you know that braking distances can be ten times as much on icy roads when compared to a dry road, and that tyres grip differently in cold weather? This is why it is recommended that you leave ten times the recommended gap between you and the vehicle in front, to give yourself extra time to react. And no overtaking as the sudden increase in speed will be dangerous to you and other road users.

Stop Right Now, Thank You Very Much

Sometimes, conditions may become too dangerous to continue driving. Keep an eye on the outside temperature gauge for freezing or near-freezing conditions. Some European vehicles have a special indicator signalling temperatures reaching black ice forming conditions. If you encounter black ice and feel that you cannot safely proceed, find a safe place to pull over and wait for conditions to improve. It’s better to arrive late and safe than to risk an accident!

Be Equipped

In the United Kingdom, the Highway Code advises against driving in icy or snowy weather unless absolutely essential. Regardless, being prepared is key when driving in winter conditions. Ensure your vehicle is equipped with winter tyres, and keep essentials like an ice scraper in the boot for clearing ice from your windshield and windows.

Driving on black ice is one of the most challenging winter driving scenarios. You deal with not just your safety, but the safety of others too. Plan your driving route by checking on weather forecast and avoiding possible roads that may form black ice. Cater extra time allowance for slower speed, delays, and reroutes.

The key to staying safe is being prepared, staying calm, and always assuming that black ice may be present. By driving slowly, maintaining control of your vehicle, and knowing when and how to stop, you can reduce the risk of accidents and ensure that you reach your destination safely. Remember, when it comes to black ice, it’s better to be safe than to be sorry!