I just totaled my car on black ice sunday night and its raining right now so that means tonight its going to be black ice and my city doesnt sand the streets because they dont care about us. help me. i am so scared to go to work tonight.
2007-12-07 07:01:00 · 7 answers · asked by Luna 1 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Safety
Most important is that you slow down. according to one of our associates who has driven on black ice. We suggest doubling the amount of time that you take to get to work. If it’s a 20 minute drive, leave 45 minutes. If you slow down, you will have traction on ice. You can steer, even on ice. As you are driving, and you press the accelerator and feel it spin, take your foot off the accelerator and gently push the pedal.
Anticipate stop signs and leave about three times as much room as you normally would between your car and the next vehicle. If the traffic is moving a 30 mph, leave about 8 car lengths—the reason is it gives you more time to react and you can probably steer gently over to the side you don’t hit the next car. If you have to steer sharply,. It causes the car to spin. Even vehicles with anti-skid braking systems (ABS) take longer to work in slippery conditions. For more winter driving tips, please visit JDPower.com
2007-12-07 08:24:44 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 1⤋
The biggest problem with "black ice" is that you don't see it coming, hence the name. The first best advice is awareness. Be aware when the temperatures are cold that the formation of black ice is probable. Drive a bit slower and leave plenty of stopping distance, particularly on curves and inclines.
If you feel the car sliding and realize that you have hit a patch of black ice try to remember not to overreact with any sudden change to steering or braking. Let off the accelerator, pump the brakes if you do not have anti-lock brakes and try to keep the wheels turning so you have some element of control. (Don't pump anti-lock brakes simply press down on the pedal and let the system do it's job. You will feel vibrations as the system activates, this is normal.) Don't overturn the steering wheel and remember to always turn the wheel in the direction you want the front of the car to go. (Never turn into a skid.)
Again, take it slow and easy. Try to stay on main roads that are usually salted better than some of the side roads. Remember that cities with limited resources are going to hit the main roads first in a snowy or icy situation.
Good luck, be safe, God bless!
2007-12-07 07:14:32 · answer #2 · answered by todvango 6 · 4⤊ 1⤋
Sadly there is not much you can do, since it is pretty much impossible to see. If you know you are driving on black ice, do not make any sudden movements, just keep on with your course. The trick with snow/ice is to make all your movements/braking/accelerating gradual. Just take it easy, you'll be fine. And if you really are nervous, call a friend or someone you work with, car pooling is always a good idea. :)
2007-12-07 07:13:51 · answer #3 · answered by jermicine 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Do you live in a state far enough north where a dedicated snow tire is a feasable option?
In below freezing temps a normal rubber compound hardens and can't create friction to keep you on the road, a snow tire uses rubber compounds that are better able to keep you safe. They aren't perfect on black ice but are incredibly safer.
If snow tires aren't an option then slow down and look for spots that look wet, black ice gives the appearence of wetness on the road. Try to avoid sudden cornering and braking on these spots, get to a slow speed before you hit them to maximise your control. If you get into a skid don't panic, try to stay calm as you regain control.
Caution is your best friend here. Stay safe ;)
2007-12-07 07:29:18 · answer #4 · answered by TL 5 · 1⤊ 1⤋
black ice is nature's ultimate booby trap. unless u've encountered it before and know exactly what u are looking for, this stuff is practically impossible to see coming usually cause its so subtle.
things to watch for: extremely subtle changes in pavement appearance from usual, be careful at intersections, bridges, and shady areas. in the sunlight, it'll appear as grey. not quite wet looking, but it wont appear shiny like typical ice will. this stuff is extremely slick as u found, and it isnt easy to predict when it will show up either. anytime the temp is at or below freezing, plan for possible ice. bridges are notorious for being the first to freeze. plan on it and expect it to be there.
2007-12-07 07:31:49 · answer #5 · answered by forktail_devil 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
just drive slowly. i plan to be out in it at 2am so God bless
2007-12-07 10:36:30 · answer #6 · answered by Ida 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Don't drive.
2007-12-07 11:40:31 · answer #7 · answered by shygirl93 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋