Winter will soon be upon us here in South Jersey, and that means freezing temperatures, snow, and ice. Freezing temperatures have always presented a unique challenge for drivers, as such conditions can alter the roadways immensely. While snowstorms and icy conditions are the most obvious hazards, the cold itself can have a range of effects on road safety that are less visible but equally dangerous. Understanding how freezing temperatures impact both roads and vehicles can help drivers take necessary precautions to ensure safer journeys.
Key Takeaways
- Black ice forms in freezing temperatures, especially on bridges and shaded areas, increasing accident risk due to its invisibility.
- Cold weather hardens tires, reducing grip on icy roads. Winter tires improve safety, but many rely on less effective all-season tires.
- Freezing conditions can cause battery failure, lower tire pressure, and thicker fluids, which affect performance and safety.
- Salt is less effective below 20°F and can corrode your vehicle if not properly cleaned.
- Drive slower, consider winter tires, monitor road conditions, and maintain your vehicle for better safety in cold weather.
The Formation of Ice on Roads
One of the most immediate dangers posed by freezing temperatures is the formation of ice on roadways. Black ice, in particular, is a significant hazard in South Jersey. This thin, nearly invisible layer of ice forms when moisture on the road freezes rapidly, especially overnight or during early morning hours. Because black ice blends into the asphalt, drivers often don’t notice it until they begin to lose traction, leading to potentially severe accidents.
Bridge decks, overpasses, and shaded areas are particularly prone to black ice since they freeze more quickly than other road surfaces. Even a light rain or snow flurry can lead to ice formation in freezing temperatures, increasing the risk for all motorists.
Ice Means Reduced Tire Traction
Did you know the cool temperatures change how your tires interact with the road’s surface? As temperatures drop, tire rubber hardens, reducing its grip on the road. In South Jersey winters, this can be a major issue, especially when roads are slick with snow or ice. Winter tires are designed to maintain flexibility in cold conditions, but many drivers in the region stick with all-season tires, which may not perform as effectively in freezing weather. Reduced traction increases stopping distances and makes it harder to control the vehicle during sudden maneuvers, making accidents more likely.
This is one reason why you should consider increasing your stopping distance when driving in the winter. Try not to tailgate when on the highway and keep your eyes on the road. Stopping on a dime in the winter may make your or other cars around you slide.
How Freezing Temperatures Impact a Vehicle
Freezing temperatures can do more to your vehicle than harden rubber. Key systems can also be impacted, compromising road safety. Those systems include:
- Battery Failure: Cold weather is tough on car batteries, leading to reduced performance or failure altogether. A weak battery may not start, leaving drivers stranded in unsafe conditions.
- Tire Pressure Drops: For every 10-degree drop in temperature, tire pressure decreases by about 1 PSI. Low tire pressure reduces traction, causes uneven tire wear, and increases the likelihood of a blowout.
- Fluid Thickening: Essential fluids such as motor oil, brake fluid, and transmission fluid thicken in cold temperatures, potentially leading to sluggish engine performance and slower brake response times.
Limitations of Road Salt
In South Jersey, road salt is a common measure used to combat icy roads. However, it has its limitations. Salt becomes less effective when temperatures fall below 20°F, which can leave roads icy even after treatment. Moreover, while road salt helps melt ice, it can also lead to corrosion of your vehicle’s undercarriage, brake lines, and exhaust system if left untreated.
In some cases, drivers may feel overly confident on roads that appear to have been salted, not realizing that residual ice may still pose a danger, especially in areas where salt coverage is uneven.
How You Can Drive Safely in Freezing Temperatures
One of the best things you can do to protect yourself, your passengers, and those around you is to adapt to the driving conditions. Freezing temperatures come with road risks, meaning you can’t drive the same in the winter as you would on a balmy summer day! To minimize risks, follow these driving tips:
- Drive Cautiously: Reduce speed and increase following distance to account for slick roads and reduced traction.
- Equip Your Vehicle: Consider switching to winter tires, which are designed to perform better in cold conditions. Regularly check tire pressure to maintain optimal performance.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on weather forecasts and be aware of road conditions, especially during early morning hours when black ice is more likely.
- Prepare Your Vehicle: Ensure that your car battery is in good condition, check fluids, and consider using a car wash with undercarriage cleaning to remove corrosive road salt.
Collision Damage? Contact Elmer’s Auto Body for Collision Repair in South Jersey
Freezing temperatures bring the promise of frost and snow…and roadway trouble. Cooler temperatures can affect how your vehicle operates, as well as the conditions of the road. If freezing temperatures have led to a winter accident or your vehicle has suffered damage from icy roads, Elmer’s Auto Body is here to help. Our expert team can assess collision damage and repair your car to ensure it’s ready for winter conditions. Contact one of our South Jersey locations to schedule a repair or inspection and drive with confidence through the colder months.