What is most important to do when driving on potential black ice?

When driving on potential black ice, the most critical action to take is to slow down and be cautious. Black ice is a thin layer of transparent ice that forms on the road surface, making it extremely difficult to see and significantly reducing traction. By reducing speed, a driver can maintain better control of the vehicle, allowing for smoother handling and increased reaction time in case of a sudden loss of traction. This caution also extends to being aware of your surroundings and anticipating potential hazards, such as other vehicles or pedestrians.

Maintaining a steady speed may seem like a good strategy in normal driving conditions, but it can be risky on black ice as it may not allow for quick responses to slippery conditions. Using cruise control is inadvisable because it can lead to loss of control; the system tries to maintain speed without the driver's immediate input, which can be dangerous on a surface that may require sudden braking or acceleration adjustments. Driving as fast as possible is clearly unsafe, as higher speeds on slick surfaces greatly increase the risk of skidding or losing control. Therefore, prioritizing a slower, more cautious approach is essential for safety.