RSA urges motorists to watch out for black ice as temperatures continue to drop

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is urging motorists to take extra care when using the roads over the coming days. 

The call comes amid a recent drop in temperatures to below freezing, with driving conditions becoming potentially treacherous due to the risk of black ice and snow on the roads. 

In response, the RSA has issued a number of safety tips to help motorists driving in poor weather. 

Motorists are advised to check tyres and spare wheel (and replace them if the tread depth falls below 3mm), drive slowly in the highest gear possible, manoeuvre gently and avoid harsh braking. 

They should also clear windows and mirrors before setting out, carry a screen scraper and de-icer, de-mist the inside of windows thoroughly, replace windshield wiper blades, and ensure the windshield washer system is full of anti-icing fluid. 

Motorists are advised against using hot water on their car windscreens as it can cause glass to crack.

Drivers are urged to remember that heavy snowfall can reduce visibility, check and use dipped headlights, and to wear sunglasses when facing glare from the winter sun. 

They should also be vigilant and watch out for patches of black ice, which is nearly transparent ice that often looks like a harmless puddle. 

Be mindful of sheltered/shaded areas on roads, under trees and adjacent to high walls in particular. 

If you get into a skid, you need to know if your vehicle has ABS (Anti- Lock Braking Systems); after you "Step" on the brake the ABS begins cycling — you will feel pulses in the pedal or hear the system working. 

It's easy to properly use antilock brakes: Remember - Step, Stay and Steer. Step on the pedal. Stay on the pedal. Steer around the obstacle (Warning: A little bit of steering goes a very long way in an emergency). 

For vehicles without ABS, you'll have to rely on the old-fashioned ‘Cadence Braking’ system: Push the brake pedal until the wheels stop rolling, then immediately release the brake enough to allow the wheels to begin turning again. Repeat this sequence rapidly. Your goal is to have the tyres producing maximum grip regardless of whether the surface is snow or ice. 

Motorists are also urged to carry the following in the boot of their car: 

• High Visibility Vest
• Tow rope
• Spare bulbs
• Spare fuel
• A shovel
• Appropriate footwear in case you have to leave your vehicle ie boots 
• A hazard warning triangle
• Spare wheel (with tyre at correct pressure and tread)
• Check that your spare wheel is in good condition and is fully inflated. Some cars may have an inflation repair kit instead of a spare wheel. Make sure that you know how to use it.
• De-icing equipment (Both for glass and door locks)
• First aid kit (in good order) 
• A fire extinguisher (fully operative)
• A working torch
• A car blanket, additional clothing & some food and water In preparation for driving you should also ensure:
• The vehicle is properly maintained, serviced and engine oil viscosity is suitable for cold conditions.
• Have the strength of coolant/antifreeze measured.
• Ensure vehicle has adequate supply of fuel for journey.
• Consider carrying some salt or sand
• Give someone an estimated time of arrival at your proposed destination. Carry a mobile phone and spare, fully charged, battery (if you don’t have a car charger)

Drivers should also stay informed and listen to local weather and traffic reports, and stay at home in extremely bad weather.