When temperatures in Missouri drop in winter and late spring. It is likely that both snow and ice can be found on the state’s roads. The Missouri Department of Transportation reports that there were 879 traffic fatalities in Missouri in 2019. Many of these car accidents involved motorists who decided to operate their vehicles in adverse weather conditions. Among the various weather hazards, one of the most serious conditions that exist is black ice auto accidents. If you or a loved one is injured in a black accident. One of the best things that you can do is to promptly obtain the assistance of an experienced attorney.
The Causes of Black Ice Accidents
Black ice is created by both rain and snow. When the temperature dips below freezing, water can freeze and ice can form. The ice that is created is not black, but is instead transparent and takes on the color of the surface below it. While black ice can also be caused by dew or fog, this is much less common. What makes black ice so treacherous for drivers is that it assumes the color of any surface it covers. Besides being transparent, this ice is often especially slippery in nature. Motorists are often only made aware that they are traveling on black ice when their vehicle either begins to slide or lose traction.
How to Spot and Avoid Black Ice
Even though black ice is difficult to notice, there are several warning signs of which motorists should be aware. For example, some locations where water runs off are known to have black ice in colder months. Motorists should do their best to avoid bridges and other elevated roads during colder times because black ice is known to form easily after rain or snow. Drivers should also know that there is no universal way to avoid black ice. But that slowing down is one of the wisest actions that can be taken during bad weather conditions. As a result, drivers should always keep their eyes on the road (rather than their cell phone, for example).
Drivers who notice that they are skidding on black ice should do their best to avoid panic and hitting the brakes. Instead, it is a much safer idea to slowly lift your foot off the gas pedal and attempt to steer in the correct position. If it is not possible to regain control of your vehicle at this time. Realize that the vehicle should regain control shortly because black ice patches are often less than 20 feet long. If your vehicle continues to skid out of control, you should do your best to move your vehicle off of the road. It avoids colliding with another driver.
Speak with an Experienced Car Crash Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been impacted by an accident caused by black ice or any other weather condition. You can suddenly find yourself facing countless complications. One of the best things that you can do in such a situation is to retain the assistance of an experienced attorney. Contact House Law today to schedule a free case evaluation.
Tags: auto accident, car accident, car accidents
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