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What is black ice and how does it lead to auto accidents?

Almost impossible to distinguish, black ice can be one of the most dangerous road hazards in the Philadelphia area. Many drivers are completely unaware when black ice is present, which is why the winter weather phenomenon so often contributes to auto accidents in Bucks County and Philadelphia. As temperatures drop and we prepare to welcome the winter season, Bucks County personal injury lawyer Michael L. Saile Jr., explains the phenomenon referred to as black ice and discusses the reasons it is so dangerous for drivers in the Philadelphia area.

What is Black Ice?

The name black ice is slightly misleading because this type of winter weather hazard does not actually have a color. It is a very thin sheet of ice that takes on the color beneath it, so it can form on any smooth surface, including sidewalks, driveways and roadways. Black ice is the most popular connotation, as it is particularly difficult for drivers to spot when it forms on asphalt roadways, leaving the black road visible. Black ice needs only a very small amount of precipitation to form, so it results during and because of winter weather such as freezing rain, snowstorms, and the resulting melting snow. Black ice is almost guaranteed to form on wet roadways during the winter months as the sun sets and the temperature drops.

Black Ice leads to Accidents

Black ice is a major cause of auto accidents in Bucks County during the winter months. Because it is almost imperceptible, drivers often do not realize until it is too late that they should take caution. Black ice also usually forms as the temperature drops, which usually happens overnight. This can lead to very dangerous road conditions during the rush hours in the Philadelphia area. Most tires are not equipped to handle winter weather in general, and black ice is no exception. The traction of everyday performance tires is just not enough to provide safety on icy roads in Bucks County.

Precautions for Icy Roads

Drivers in the Bucks County area should pay attention to the weather, as it will indicate which precautions should be taken before setting out in winter weather. If the temperature is particularly cold or below freezing and there are rainy or snowy conditions, there is a chance that black ice will be found on roadways.

Drivers should take caution when roads seem wet, as this is a sign that black ice is present. Even if a road is just wet, there may be patches of black ice which are indistinguishable from other wet areas. If you live in an area where winter weather is often an issue, it may be a good idea to invest in tires that are made specifically for winter weather; they often have large treads to maintain traction on icy roads.

If you are suffering a personal injury from an PA auto accident due to winter weather, contact the personal injury lawyers at Saile & Saile LLP to move forward with your personal injury case. Contact our Bucks County law office to schedule a FREE consultation. Don't forget to download your FREE copy of our PA Car Accident Book.