Winter weather often brings snow and ice, both of which can be tricky for drivers and pedestrians. However, black ice may be the most formidable foe for winter travelers. Despite its name, black ice is completely clear, allowing you to see the roads and sidewalks under it. Most times, you never see it coming. Here are four safety tips to help you stay safe this winter:
Wear proper footwear and shuffle when you can! Wear shoes that fit well and have good traction. This, along with shuffling your feet (think penguin walk), can keep you steadily grounded.
Like traction for your shoes, make sure you have the right tires for your car! Black ice can be deadly on the roads. If you anticipate a snowy winter, look into getting snow tires. These will provide the best grip on icy days.
Keep an eye out for black ice. Before getting in your car or going out for a walk, look at the pavement. If the pavement is dry but you see spots that look glossy or dark, it is probably black ice. Common places you will find black ice are tree-covered roadways or sidewalks (less direct sunlight), bridges, and overpasses.
Drive extra cautiously. If you suspect there may be black ice on the roads, here are some precautions to take. 1. Keep at least a 5-second following distance from the car in front of you. 2. Do not slam on your brakes – that can result in loss of traction and skidding. 3. Do not over correct if you feel your car sliding.
It is important to contact a personal injury lawyer right away if you or someone you care about has been injured in a slip-and-fall or car accident that possibly resulted from the negligence of another party. There are many nuances with proving fault when it comes to ice, so it is best to retain the expertise of a {winter} seasoned lawyer!
