Black Ice
I was reading an article about Driving in the winter from Travelers Insurance.I felt you would enjoy. For more information Call Tveter Insurance at 801 917 4641 or 925 408 5756
Enjoy
Have you ever wondered why black ice forms, how traction control works or what causes hydroplaning? Let’s take a look at the science behind some common winter driving conditions in order to better understand what leads to dangerous driving situations, and help us all prepare to drive more safely this winter.
What Is Black Ice?
Black ice is not actually black in color — it’s clear enough that you can see the road beneath it, making it appear “black.” Black ice can also be difficult to distinguish from a wet roadway and may appear wet and shiny.1 The absence of air bubbles can allow it to blend in with any surface, making it difficult to see for pedestrians on sidewalks as well as for drivers on winter roads. Fog, light freezing rain, and melting and refreezing precipitation all can cause black ice to form.
Even if the air temperature is above freezing, black ice can still develop on cooler surface temperatures and present a hazard on the roads. Moisture from vehicle exhaust can also cause black ice to form on roadways, where drivers may not expect it, such as intersections where stopped vehicles may idle for brief periods of time allowing black ice from condensate to form. If you are driving in conditions in which black ice is possible, slow down and increase your following distance. Also, know the local weather forecast. If slick road conditions are a possibility, consider waiting until conditions improve.
source
https://www.nhtsa.gov/people/injury/buses/updatedweb/topic_8/page6.html
