Lowndes County sheriff urges caution during black ice

Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office urged drivers to exercise extreme caution during cold-weather events, saying black ice poses a serious hazard on local roadways. The office made the warning in a Facebook post, advising motorists to adjust driving behavior when freezing conditions are possible.

The sheriff’s office said black ice is particularly dangerous because it is nearly invisible and can cause an immediate loss of traction. Many drivers do not realize they have encountered black ice until their vehicle begins to skid, at which point maintaining control becomes much more difficult.

Officials offered several safety tips for drivers: avoid sudden movements such as hard braking, rapid acceleration or sharp steering; gently release the gas pedal and allow the vehicle to slow naturally; keep steering inputs smooth and, if a skid occurs, steer gently in the direction you want the front of the vehicle to go. The office also urged motorists to monitor weather conditions and vehicle temperature warnings and to assume black ice may be present when temperatures approach freezing.

When possible, the sheriff’s office advised delaying travel until roadways have been treated. We will provide more information as it becomes available.