When temperatures drop, roads can quickly become icy – and black ice can form without warning. Even short journeys can feel risky if you’re not prepared.
Stopping distances on ice can be up to ten times longer than on dry roads, so driving smoothly and leaving extra space is essential.
This guide explains what black ice is, where it forms, how to spot it, and what to do if you hit it.
Quick winter driving checklist (TL;DR)
- Check tyres, battery, lights and screenwash before you set off.
- Slow down and avoid sharp steering, braking or acceleration.
- Leave around 10x your normal stopping distance.
- Watch for black ice on shaded roads, bridges and early mornings.
- If you skid, stay calm, ease off and steer gently into it.