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It takes just a moment to lose control over a vehicle, slipping on ice. Most drivers slow down and are cautious when there are visible risks. What is even more complex is black ice, which is hard to see and even more difficult to avoid. Black ice car accidents in Newark can cause serious injury and even long-term complications. At Goldstein & Goldstein, LLP, our Newark car accident attorneys handle all types of car accidents related to poor weather conditions, including black ice.
What Is Black Ice, and Why Do Drivers Not See It?
Black ice is a very thin layer of ice over the top of surfaces that is nearly invisible. It is very slippery, and because it is virtually transparent, it can be challenging for anyone to see that it is there. More so, that transparency makes it seem like the pavement is just wet, not slick. This invisible layer of ice blends into the roadway so well that it can cause a driver to slip and slide without even knowing they hit ice.
Drivers do not know what happened. They believe the road is only wet. Then, they lose traction, and the vehicle is moving in various directions. That is a huge risk of losing control.
One of the key complications of black ice is that it can happen when temperatures drop just below freezing. This causes moisture from rain or melting snow to slightly solidify, creating a very slippery surface. Still, the temperature makes the driver think conditions are wet and more manageable.
Where Black Ice Commonly Forms in Newark
Black ice car accidents in Newark can happen on virtually any outdoor surface. There are some areas where it is more prone to occur, specifically:
- Bridges and Overpasses: Anyone on a bridge during the winter months or heading onto an overpass along the highway should be on the lookout for black ice. The water on the road freezes faster than regular roads due to the airflow under the surface, not just on top.
- Shaded City Streets: With more shade, especially from tall trees or buildings, sunlight does not meet the road as much, or as easily. That means ice in these areas does not always melt fully.
- Ramps and Intersections: The frequent stops and acceleration here make it harder for the surface to dry. These areas typically have a higher risk of developing slick conditions.
- Early Morning Commute Routes: Road crews who may not have been out to treat surfaces enough before the sun comes up can also be a factor in where black ice forms.
Why Black Ice Causes Such Severe Car Accidents
Many factors contribute to winter car accidents in Newark, NJ, but black ice can be a significant and problematic concern for multiple reasons:
- Sudden loss of control with no warning.
- Increased stopping distance even at low speeds.
- Vehicles sliding into intersections, oncoming traffic, or pedestrians.
- Higher risk of multi-vehicle chain reaction crashes.
- For all of these reasons, black ice accidents in New Jersey can cause serious risk of injury and loss of life.
Why Drivers Underestimate the Danger of Black Ice
Another key factor in why these accidents happen is the simple fact that people do not realize there is a risk. The roads appear clear and safe to drive on after snow removal. As a result, drivers reduce their level of caution, especially after snowfall ends.
This often leads to overconfidence behind the wheel. The lack of visibility means the driver cannot adjust their speed in time to avoid complications and risk of serious injury.
In other cases, an overconfidence in AWD and 4WD vehicles can also cause a driver to lose control. Even in difficult conditions like this, these vehicles can slip, and drivers can quickly lose control.
Common Types of Black Ice Car Accidents in Newark
When drivers lose this type of control, numerous types of accidents can happen. Some of the most common black ice car accidents in Newark include:
- Rear-end collisions, especially at intersections where drivers cannot stop.
- Vehicles slide through red lights or stop signs because they cannot stop.
- Single-vehicle crashes into guardrails or medians.
- Multi-car pileups during morning rush hour.
No matter what type of accident you are in, put your safety first and get medical care.
Liability in Black Ice Accidents in New Jersey
Determining fault in these accidents may be confusing. However, bad weather does not excuse negligent driving. Drivers are still expected to adjust speed and following distance. When they fail, they can be held liable for the accidents and injuries they cause.
Comparative negligence rules may still allow compensation even if a driver lost control. That could mean both drivers share some fault in the accident.
In addition, the city or property owner could be at fault. Potential third-party liability if poor road maintenance contributed, and there was the opportunity to treat them.
What Injured Drivers, Passengers, and Pedestrians Should Do After a Black Ice Crash
If you are hurt in an accident of any type during winter weather, put your safety first. When possible, follow these steps:
- Get medical care immediately. Do so even if your injuries seem minor.
- Photograph road conditions and the surrounding areas.
- Obtain police reports and witness information from all parties involved.
- Avoid assuming fault or blaming the weather alone. Never make statements that could make it seem you are at fault.
- Taking these steps protects your case. It can also give you some peace of mind in seeking compensation.
When to Speak With a Newark Car Accident Attorney
Seek out help from a lawyer if you have injuries that require medical treatment. In addition, if insurance companies dispute fault due to weather, it is time to hire an attorney. Also, do so in any accident involving multiple vehicles or serious injuries.
Call Goldstein & Goldstein, LLP after a Black Ice Car Accident in Newark
Our Newark car accident attorneys are your advocates. Contact Goldstein & Goldstein, LLP now if you or a family member were hurt; call 973-675-8277 or contact us online for a free consultation. We are located in East Orange, NJ.
FAQs About Black Ice Car Accidents
What happens when you hit black ice?
Tires lose traction, and that causes the car to skid or slide. This can happen at any rate of speed.
Who is at fault in a black ice car accident?
That depends on the situation. If you strike another car because you lose control, you may be responsible for their injuries.
Do I need an attorney after a black ice accident?
You should if you have medical injuries or complications to your claim.
