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What is black ice and is it safe to drive on? Driving tips for the wintry UK weather conditions

Motorists are advised not to drive unless absolutely necessary as the conditions can prove difficult even for experienced drivers

MOTORISTS are being warned to leave extra time for their journeys and in many cases not to travel at all as the current wintry weather creates a risk of black ice.

As temperatures plummet you need to prepare for the challenges posed by the winter weather. But what is the treacherous phenomenon of black ice and how can you drive safely if you encounter it?

The ice is commonly found on bridges, overpasses and parts of the road which are shaded by trees

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How to drive safely on ice?


The best advice is to not drive unless absolutely necessary.


Make sure you clear all your windows – it’s actually illegal to drive if you can’t see out of all of them – and try to stick to major roads which should have been gritted.

Also be sure you have a full tank of fuel, and check the oil and other engine fluids before you set off.

You should also keep your distance, as it can take ten times as long to come to a stop in icy conditions compared to normal.

Motorists should leave at least 20 seconds’ distance from the car in front to make up for shorter braking distances.

What is black ice?

Black ice, also known as thin ice, is simply a clear coat of ice.

It blends in with road pavements because it is so fine, making it almost impossible to see.

If temperatures rise above freezing after it’s snowed, or there is reduced cloud cover, snow will slowly melt and cause road surfaces to become wet.

If the temperature drops below freezing while the ground is wet, black ice will form on paved surfaces.

The ice can also form if moisture in the air condenses, forms dew or fog before the temperature drops below freezing.

Roadways can become very slippery when the black ice forms, creating hazardous driving conditions.

If you get caught in areas of black ice, you should try and keep your steering wheel straight.

Turning the wheel increase your chances of sliding and losing control.

Do not suddenly brake. Braking causes the vehicle to slide. Instead, take your foot off the accelerator to reduce speed.

Leaving a larger gap between the car in front of you than normal will give you enough room to let the car stop on its own if possible.

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