Motoring experts have issued UK drivers with a warning as the Met Office revealed yellow weather warnings for parts of the country due to snow and ice.
Motorists are being urged to take care due to the risk of black ice forming on the roads from the snow, sleet and ice that has been forecast.
Black ice is a thin coat of highly transparent ice.
The reason black ice is transparent is because it is so thin it blends in with roads and pavements, making it nearly impossible to see.
Black ice usually forms when there is a wet surface including roads and pavements and the temperature drops below freezing.
Managing Director of Select Car Leasing, Graham Conway, said there were a number of ways drivers could adjust to help them cope with black ice.
How to drive on black ice - experts reveal their tips to keep Brits safe on the roads
Mr Conway said there were three simple things motorists could do to help them deal with driving on black ice:
- Reduce your speed
- Keep a good distance from the vehicle in front
- Use headlights (even during the day)
He added: "Black ice can catch you off guard. Just slow down - reducing your speed gives you more time to react to any unexpected icy patches.
Mr Conway continued: "Keep a good distance from the vehicle in front to have a buffer in case of sudden stops or skids. It's a simple precaution that can make a significant difference,” he said.
"Use your headlights, even during the day. It helps you see better and makes it easier for other drivers to spot you on the road.
“It's a simple yet effective safety measure."
The Select Car Leasing managing director had four more in-depth tips for UK motorists to help them with driving on black ice:
Master steering and braking techniques
Making sure you have complete control of your car is crucial when dealing with black ice, Mr Conway said.
How you steer can also have a big impact on slippery roads.
The motoring expert added: "When encountering black ice, steer gently and avoid sudden movements.
"Use a light grip on the steering wheel and make small, controlled movements to navigate the icy patches."
When it comes to braking, it’s important to use the "threshold braking" technique, Mr Conway said.
He said: "Apply the brakes with steady, firm pressure, but avoid slamming them.
“This allows you to maintain control while slowing down gradually. Trust the anti-lock braking system (ABS) if your car is equipped with it.”
Will the UK get snow this winter?
Know your car's safety features
Understanding your vehicle's safety features is also vital during the winter months with the increased likelihood of hazardous conditions on UK roads.
Mr Conway said: "Get to know your car's ABS and traction control. These features can be helpful on icy roads, aiding control during slippery conditions."
Familiarity with these technologies empowers drivers to make better-informed decisions in challenging winter driving situations, he said.
Conway also suggested keeping an emergency kit in your vehicle at all times - including items like a flashlight, blankets, and non-perishable snacks.
Invest in winter tyres
Mr Conway said he strongly advised drivers to invest in winter tyres to "enhance traction on icy roads".
He said winter tyres gave drivers better stability and control on icy and snowy roads and helped reduce the likelihood of skidding on black ice.
Understand black ice hotspots
Mr Conway's final tip is simply to steer clear of areas where black ice may be a hazard, thinking about areas tat could be possible danger zones.
He added: "Bridges, overpasses and shaded areas are more prone to black ice formation.
"Approach these areas with extra caution and be prepared for changing road conditions."
Mr Conway explained that these locations experience faster cooling, reduced exposure to sunlight and lack ground insulation, creating conditions conducive to the swift formation of black ice.
Conway added that recognising common hotspots “allows drivers to anticipate challenges and adjust their driving behaviour accordingly”.
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