Motorists could be caught out by the “summer black ice” when rain returns early this week, with roads likely to become very slippery. Residue such as oil and tyre rubber can build up on road surfaces during periods of prolonged dry weather. When the rain finally hits, this can create a deadly mix of slippery tarmac.
What is summer ice?
According to experts at MoneySuperMarket, this effect has been described as ‘summer ice’ as it mimics the feeling of hitting black ice during the winter. Motorists may be able to spot this slippery substance with the naked eye, with the film typically looking like a rainbow sheen similar to an oil spill.
However, it’s not that obvious, meaning that road users could be caught out and drive straight into possible danger. It comes after the Met Office stressed rain was on its way, with wet conditions expected to finally hit the UK from Monday and Tuesday.
Met Office forecast
The Met Office said that conditions would become “increasingly changeable”, adding that there will be “showers this week”.
Alicia Hempsted, car insurance expert at MoneySuperMarket said: “Over the past few weeks, drivers will have become used to dry, grippy roads. But when the rain returns, road surfaces can become just as slippery as ice, and because it might look like an ordinary wet road, people may not adjust their driving to suit the conditions.”
Safety advice for drivers
Due to the risky conditions, motorists should try to keep a larger distance between themselves and the car in front. This will buy road users some crucial time to get their vehicle under control if they do end up aquaplaning or spinning.
Alicia added: “Rule 126 of The Highway Code states that dangerous or careless driving offences such as tailgating are enforced by the police, and if your stopping distance is inadequate and you are in a collision, you could be at fault and have your insurance claim denied.
“During this time, it's important to slow down when driving your vehicle, leave extra distance from the car in front, and avoid any harsh braking or acceleration after the rain returns – just like you would in icy or snowy conditions.”
