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Black ice is a dangerous condition that causes transparent ice to form and camouflage on surfaces. It is easy to overlook black ice and can cause you to lose control of your vehicle. Black ice normally occurs during the winter when it is raining, and the temperature is below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. In many cases, black ice forms naturally, but if a road is not well designed or appropriately maintained to drain moisture, black ice can also form. This can potentially lead to a car accident.
Insurance Companies and Black Ice
If black ice is the primary cause of your accident and no other driver was involved, the insurance company will hold you liable for the accident. However, if a road was failed to be fixed or maintained, and this resulted in an accident, you may not be liable for your injuries.
69-Vehicle Pile-up in Virginia Caused by Fog and Ice
An accident initiated by ice and fog in Yorktown, Virginia caused a 69-vehicle pile-up, injuring 51 people involved. Injuries ranged from mild to life-threatening. The wreck happened on Queens Creek Bridge and shut down the traffic on Interstate 64 for hours. Bridges and overpasses are especially dangerous since temperatures drop rapidly on elevated surfaces.
How to Prevent a Black Ice Accident
Even with extra precautions, accidents caused by black ice can occur. It is important to be careful while traveling in the winter months and to be wary of poor road conditions. Here are a few things you can do to avoid being involved in a black ice accident:
- Do not speed: If you must drive in inclement weather conditions, avoid driving too fast. You should drive slower than the posted speed limit in dangerous weather conditions.
- Avoid Driving: if possible, do not drive. If road conditions are icy and you are thinking about driving, it may be necessary to reschedule your plans until conditions outside clear.
- Focus on the Road: Avoid distracted driving. You should not use your phone or any other device, even when roads are not icy. However, when road conditions are slippery, pay extra attention to your surroundings. Avoid texting, engaging with passengers, operating your Global Positioning System (GPS), and eating while on hazardous roads. This can lead to serious, life-threatening accidents.
- Brake Slowly: It takes a lot longer to stop your vehicle on black ice than it does to stop it on a dry road, so stop your vehicle slowly in winter conditions.
- Watch Tire Tread: Pay attention to your tire tread. Worn tires will have less traction if you go over black ice.
Virginia Beach Car Accident Lawyers at East Coast Trial Lawyers Represent Clients Injured in Car Accidents
If you or someone you know was injured in a car accident, you may be eligible for compensation. Our dedicated Virginia Beach car accident lawyers at East Coast Trial Lawyers advocate for car accident victims. Our experienced lawyers will fight for your rights and will help determine compensation for your injuries. Contact us online or call us at 757-352-2237 for a free consultation regarding your potential case. Located in Virginia Beach, Virginia, we also serve clients throughout Chesapeake, Eastern Shores, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Portsmouth, and Suffolk.
