How to Avoid Black Ice Accidents This Winter

New Orleans winters are fairly mild, but that doesn’t mean that wintry conditions don’t occur. While New Orleans rarely gets snow, the temperatures can dip below freezing regardless. This is when black ice accidents can happen.

Black ice accidents can be some of the most severe and unexpected car accidents on Louisiana roads. This is partially due to unfamiliarity; many Southern drivers don’t realize black ice is a grave threat until it’s too late. Furthermore, property and business owners may have played a part in creating icy sidewalks because of ignorance of winter conditions.

If you and your family have been hurt in a black ice accident caused by recklessness or negligence of another, Mike Brandner Law can help. To help you and your loved ones avoid black ice accidents, our team has put together this convenient primer.

What Is Black Ice?

Black ice is a thin sheet of ice that forms on roads and streets. It gets its name for its transparency; when water is frozen onto a roadway, the resulting ice can appear invisible, giving the illusion of “black ice.”

If you drive up north, you may see signs by bridges or overpasses that warn of ice and wind. Because there is not as much ground heat surrounding these surfaces, black ice is much more likely to form.

If you believe there is a threat of black ice, slow down. Keep a safe space between you and other vehicles on the road. Watch for reckless drivers and keep away from them. Also, watch the other cars around you for signs of slippery conditions.

Black ice is hazardous to pedestrians as well as drivers. It can form on sidewalks and parking lots, which can lead to slip-and-fall accidents. During New Orleans’ winter months, step carefully and always pay extra attention to sidewalk conditions. Take small steps to help you maintain balance. Finally, you may want to purchase some shoes or boots with excellent ice grips.

Are You a Victim of a Black Ice Injury?

Whether you’ve gotten into a car wreck or suffered a nasty slip due to black ice, your injuries may not be your fault. The black ice you drove over or slipped on may be the result of someone else’s negligence or recklessness. If you suspect that to be the case then you need a lawyer with the experience, knowledge, and skill to prove your case, like those at Mike Brandner Law.

Call us today at (504) 345-1111. We will take your call 24 hours a day, any day of the week. Or, click the LiveChat feature on our homepage to interact with a member of our legal team. There is no obligation after your initial free consultation. Our 24/7 personal injury attorneys are happy to help you seek any compensation that you may deserve!

The information on this blog is for general information purposes only. Nothing herein should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute an attorney-client relationship.