Contacts
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Diane Beck
320-214-6421
Location
Minnesota Department of
Transportation
District 8
2505 Transportation Road
Willmar, MN 56201
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Black ice creates dangerous driving conditions
WILLMAR, Minn. —The Minnesota Department of Transportation warns motorists that temperatures below freezing create conditions for black ice, an invisible hazard that catches drivers off-guard and causes crashes.
Black ice can form just about anywhere on a paved highway when the air temperature is warmer than the pavement, which causes moisture to rapidly freeze and creates a thin, transparent layer of ice on the roadway.
Freshly fallen snow can further disguise black ice and create even greater danger.
Motorists should remember to:
- Slow down and turn off your cruise control.
- Slow down on bridges, ramps and overpasses and in the early morning when the air temperature is rising faster than the pavement temperature.
- Use a safe speed for winter driving conditions, regardless of the posted speed limit.
- Keep a safe stopping distance from the vehicle in front of you.
- Keep both hands on the steering wheel, your eyes on the road and your attention on your driving.
- Allow more travel time to your destination. Avoid being in a rush.
- Always buckle up – it’s the law and could save your life!
