Just okay, then suddenly smooth as glass? Flash ice is treacherous. If a warning is given, it is better to leave the car and bicycle where they are. If necessary, the journey should be interrupted and the gritting service should be awaited.
When rain or fog hits frozen roads, black ice can form. According to ADAC, the water freezes immediately. This creates a hard, glassy, coherent layer of ice. In such areas, the road becomes a slide. Neither winter tires and snow chains nor the anti-lock braking system (ABS) or the electronic stability program (ESP) help. If the media warns of black ice or freezing rain, it is better to leave the car at home and postpone the journey. In general, the following applies to ice and snow: more distance to the vehicle in front, adjust your speed and always brake and steer gently.
If you are surprised by black ice on the way, you should interrupt your journey and wait for the gritting service. ADAC recommends pulling over to the right as far as possible if you can still react in time.
The danger increases especially when the temperatures fluctuate around the freezing point. Alternating thawing and freezing, the conditions on the road are constantly changing. Especially in such weather, drivers should inform themselves regularly about the weather and road conditions before starting their journey.
Treacherous in freezing wet conditions: the layer of ice can hardly be seen and appears suddenly, but fog and hoarfrost on trees could be clues. Passages that lead through forests and all areas where the roads are heavily exposed to the weather, such as bridge sections, are particularly susceptible. In some places, the triangular road sign "snow or ice" with a snowflake symbol warns of such dangers.
Cyclists also get off their bikes immediately - and in such weather it is best not to get on at all. Pedestrians are also more careful on the move and may wait at home or at work until the situation has relaxed, according to the ADAC.
In general, more time should be planned for such days, because public transport is also more heavily used and also affected by the weather conditions.
