Minnesota Department of Transportation

511 Travel Info

Work Zone Safety

Watch out for black ice

What is black ice?

Black ice is actually invisible ice that is almost totally transparent. It can easily catch drivers off-guard and cause crashes.

How and where does black ice form?

Black ice forms when the air temperature is warmer than pavement, which causes moisture to rapidly freeze and creates a thin, transparent layer of ice on the roadway.

What can I do to be safer?

  • Slow down on bridges, overpasses and tunnels, and in the early morning when the air temperature is rising faster than the pavement temperature
  • Avoid applying brakes on ice as it may cause a vehicle to skid
  • Do not use cruise control during winter driving conditions
  • 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
  • Do not use a cell phone while driving and remember that texting is prohibited while driving in Minnesota
  • Keep both hands on the steering wheel, your eyes on the road and your attention on your driving