After several inches of snow fell around Western Washington this weekend, the National Weather Service in Seattle said black ice could be an issue on roads Tuesday.
>> See photos of Christmas snow around Washington.
ABOUT BLACK ICE:
For those unfamiliar with black ice, it’s a very thin coating of ice on a road. It technically isn’t black, but is so thin and transparent that drivers can’t always differentiate between wet or icy roadways.
Esurance reminds that black ice usually forms at night or early morning and is barely noticeable until it is too late and after drivers have potentially lost control of their vehicles.
So how can you protect yourself, your passengers and your car when there’s a potential for black ice?
Cars.com says know where it can form like bridges, overpasses, shady areas and roads that don't' get a lot of traffic.
Cars.com compiled a list of AAA recommendations:
- Look for roads that are slightly darker and duller than the rest of the street.
- Don't use cruise control.
- Avoid changing lanes unnecessarily.
- Try hitting breaks before ice.
- Control your skids by easing off the gas pedal and steer in the direction you want to go.
- Don't pump brakes if you have anti-lock brakes.
- Four-wheel drive won't help you stop faster on ice.
Trending headlines
- RealTime traffic updates: Holiday travel around Seattle
- Railroad investigator says it's wrong to point a finger at train engineer
- Eminem's daughter, Hailie, all grown up and celebrating her 22nd birthday
- Christmas: The busiest day at Seattle's oldest Chinese restaurant
Cox Media Group
