Icy roads pose risks for Eastern Bay of Plenty drivers over winter, and black ice is particularly dangerous, especially in areas such as the Waimana and Waioeka Gorges and the Rotomas, where the road is shaded for most of the day.

Understanding and knowing how to deal with this winter issue will help you stay safe on the road.

Black ice forms on roads, sidewalks and driveways after light rain freezes or melting ice re-freezes. No bubbles are created as the ice forms, so it blends with the road surface and is very hard to see. It is most common in shady areas and on less-traveled roads. It is also often found on bridges, because the air cools the top and underside of the bridge, bringing about faster freezing.

Black ice usually forms at night or in the early morning, when the temperatures are at their lowest or when the sun isn't around to warm the road. If you can, postpone early-morning driving until the sun has had a chance to melt the ice.

If the majority of the road you're driving on is dull black, but a patch ahead of you is shiny, it could be icy. Stay calm. The general rule is to do as little as possible and allow the car to pass over the ice without turning or braking. Try to keep the steering wheel straight. If you feel the back end of your car sliding left or right, gently turn the steering wheel in the same direction. If you steer in the opposite direction, you could skid or spin. Don’t brake on ice. Slow down by decelerating and, if you can, shift into a low gear so you have more control. If you skid or lose traction, stay calm, steer your way through and don’t brake – if you do, there’s a good chance you’ll lose steering control.

To avoid the risk of a crash on icy roads:

• If you can, avoid driving early in the day, especially in areas where black ice is most commonly seen.
• Slow down during icy weather. The speed limit and a safe speed can be very different.
• Avoid tailgating.
• Keep your windshield clear so you can see the road fully.
• Check your tyre tread. If tyres are worn and you hit ice, you’ll lack traction.

Slow down and drive to the road and weather conditions; check the weather before you drive. For more driving tips, visit nzta.govt.nz or check out the Eastern Bay Road Safety page on Facebook.