Ice patches: do you know how to drive if you encounter one?

In winter, the road becomes dangerous, as there can be many obstacles that make driving difficult. Snow layers are a hazard, but these are very visible, since they are white and you can clearly see when you are about to encounter one. But ice patches are almost invisible and therefore much more dangerous.

Ice layers appear on the road mainly at dawn or at dusk, which is when temperatures drop the most. Roads do not freeze completely; instead, patches of short length appear. They are transparent, so the driver may not see them until it is too late.

Roads with ice patches

Roads that regularly have ice patches are usually signposted, so we can find the corresponding sign warning of the risk. But always keep in mind that these ice patches can form in shaded areas where the sun does not reach. Tunnels, sections passing under a bridge, or roads where trees block the sun and prevent it from reaching the asphalt are the most common places where they form.

When the thermometer drops below 5°C, extra caution must be taken while driving. Ice patches prevent the tyre from gripping the asphalt properly and can cause the vehicle to lose control. So do you know what to do when you face an ice patch?

How to drive when you encounter an ice patch

When the tyres pass over an ice patch, you can feel it. At that moment you must stay calm and act decisively. The first step is to release the accelerator pedal and keep your hands on the steering wheel to maintain control. Do not brake; let the car lose speed on its own. You may accelerate, yes, but gently.

If you try to accelerate quickly, the wheels will spin and it is easier to lose control. Accelerate lightly and, if you feel you are not gaining grip, release the pedal. Repeat this action until grip on the asphalt is recovered. This usually happens within seconds, so you can do it a couple of times and regain control.

Ice patches are usually not very long, so within seconds you can get out of them. When doing so, try to keep the wheels straight. At that moment, correct the steering. If the wheels are turned when they regain grip, the car will head in that direction, which can be a problem.

But there is one thing you must always keep in mind. When temperatures are so low that ice patches may appear, remember that you must reduce your speed and drive with caution.