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Watch out for black ice

During the winter months, Oregon motorists deal with snow, wind, blowing snow, fog, and reduced visibility. Another hazardous situation that travelers need to be aware of is black ice.

Black ice on the roadways can be difficult to see. Motorists are advised to pay attention to a change in color or a change in the reflectivity of the pavement surface. If the road surface is wet and all of sudden it looks dry, it could be black ice.

Also if motorists come across a sparkling road surface it could be either frost or black ice.

"The best way to deal with black ice is to anticipate where you have a likelihood of encountering it, such as on shady curves and bridges, then slow down and drive accordingly," said Dan Knoll, Public Information Representative for Oregon Department of Transportation Region 4.

Knoll also recommends that motorists should slow down on dry pavement before entering what could be a slippery area. If it's too late to properly slow down, do not make any sudden changes or maneuvers and use the brakes gradually.

If motorists find themselves on black ice and losing control, they should steer into the direction of the skid. Do not use cruise control if there is even a remote possibility of encountering black ice, frost, or snow.

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