Black ice is a hard-to-see road hazard Published Feb. 6, 2015 By Master Sgt. Joseph Kroll 88th Air Base Wing Safety WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio. -- One of the deadliest hazards that drivers have to contend with during the winter months -- black ice -- is one they should be aware of. Drivers should know what to do if they encounter black ice while on the road. What you should do if you hit black ice: › As soon as your car begins to slide on black ice, take your foot off the gas pedal. In fact, the last thing you want to do is give your car more gas. It is important to slow down when you are driving on black ice or in any other winter road conditions. › Don't slam on the brakes. While it may be a natural instinct to slam on your brakes, this will only cause your car to lose control and slide even more. Tap the brake pedal lightly instead of pushing down hard on it. › If your car does begin to skid on the ice, turn the wheel in the direction of the skid. This should help to steer your car back on the right track. Helpful tips › Leave plenty of space between your car and the other cars on the road. When driving on black ice road conditions, stay well behind the car in front of you (at least a couple of hundred feet) -- this is definitely not the time to tailgate. Even if you feel confident that you know how to drive safely on black ice, that doesn't mean the driver in front of you does. Be prepared in case other cars start to slide. › Look for trouble spots ahead. If you have an idea that there may be black ice ahead (if you see cars ahead of you sliding, for example), downshift to a lower gear before you come onto the black ice. The lower gear will force you to drive more slowly and it will give you better control of your car. Don't be over confident Don't think you're invincible just because you drive a truck or a big sports utility vehicle. While four-wheel drive vehicles are great for driving in heavy snow, you are on your own when it comes to driving on black ice. In fact, four-wheel drive vehicles have no advantage over regular cars when it comes to driving on black ice, so be sure to take the necessary safety precautions no matter what type of vehicle you are driving. If you have any other questions regarding winter driving, contact the 88 ABW Safety Office at 904-0888.