Officials ask drivers to stay off roads. How to drive on black ice if you must go out

As Winter Storm Landon’s Thursday morning rain turns to ice in the afternoon, driving conditions are expected to become hazardous.

Those who can stay home should do so, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet advises. For those that need to make a critical trip out, we’ve compiled some safe driving tips, including pointers on how to avoid a sneaky danger — black ice.

What is black ice and where is it prevalent during winter storm events?

Black ice, a thin layer of highly transparent ice, can glaze roadways, making them extremely slippery and dangerous.

“If the temperature rises above freezing or the sun comes out during the day, any snow on the ground will slowly melt and cause road surfaces to become wet. If it rains, that could also lead to wet roadways with some puddles,” according to The Weather Channel. “If the temperature then drops below freezing while the ground is still wet, black ice will likely form on paved surfaces due to the refreezing.”

Bridges, overpasses, the bottoms of hills and stretches of road that are shaded are particular hot spots for black ice. Shaded driveways and sidewalks could also be culprits.

Black ice can be very hard to identify, but AAA says glossy surfaces could be an indicator: “Whether you are in the car or on foot, slow down.”

How to prepare before you hit the road

If you must go out in potential black ice conditions, AAA recommends the following preparation:

• Let your car warm up for a minute or two. When you put the car in drive, move at a reduced speed until you feel heat from the vents.
• Clear all snow and ice from your car. Removing any accumulation will improve visibility.
• Check your tires. Tires with low tread will have less traction.
• Leave early and give others more room on the roadway. Drive slower when conditions are hazardous. Giving others a wider berth gives you more time to stop if needed.

What to do if you hit black ice

If you find yourself sliding on black ice, The Weather Channel suggests you:

• Don’t hit the brakes. This might cause your car to slide further.
• Try and keep the steering wheel straight so you can better keep control of your vehicle.
• Take your foot off the gas to reduce speed. If possible, let the car stop on its own.

Other winter driving tips

Lexington and other parts of Kentucky have already seen several winter storm events this year. Here’s some other safe driving tips if you must go out during snow or ice.

• Prepare your vehicle accordingly. This includes the basics, like having enough gas and making sure your tires have air, but also double check things that could matter most in inclement weather, like ensuring your defroster works and topping off anti-freeze fluid.
• Check conditions first. For up-to-date conditions, call 511 from Kentucky or 1-866-737-3767 from another state. You can also visit 511.ky.gov.
• Have a cold weather supply kit in your vehicle in the event you get stranded. See a list of recommended items below.
• Once you hit the road, slow down and give other vehicles a wide berth. Brake early and slowly when you need to stop, KYTC recommends.
• Avoid using cruise control.
• Allow yourself more time to get to your destination.
• Do not pass snowplows on the shoulder and give all safety equipment plenty of room to do their job clearing roadways.
• Avoid travel unless absolutely necessary.

Consider keeping the follow items in your winter weather vehicle kit:

• A first-aid kit
• Shovel
• Ice scraper
• Flashlight and working batteries
• Car cell phone charger
• Sand or cat litter
• Blankets
• Water
• Snacks

If are involved in an accident with no injuries, clear your vehicle from the roadway if possible and call the police. If more than one party is involved in the collision, exchange information once you are out of traffic.

If you become stranded in the snow or your vehicle is disabled, turn on your emergency flashers. Move the vehicle off the roadway if possible and stay in your car. If you can’t clear your vehicle from the roadway, stand at a safe distance in the vicinity.

Tie something bright to your antenna or elsewhere on your vehicle to indicate you need help.

In or out of your vehicle, keep warm. If inside the vehicle, make sure your exhaust pipe is clear to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

This story was originally published February 3, 2022 at 1:52 PM.