Legal

Black Ice’s Dangers in Parking Lots

After a long, gloomy winter, the weather is just now starting to get warmer. There are still certain winter hazards to be wary of, including black ice in parking lots, even though the weather may start to warm up and the sun may start to shine more.

This time of year, there is black ice everywhere. Black ice creation is a regular occurrence in New England due to the regular weather changes. When temperatures reach over 60 degrees one day, snow and ice start to melt. The following day, temperatures drop to 10 degrees, freezing the previously melted snow and ice. Definitely a risky cycle for pedestrians. Boston personal injury lawyers can help you if you are in any legal trouble.

Why Is Black Ice So Dangerous, and What Is It?

Black ice is apparent and thin ice that is exceedingly difficult to see. Black ice is nearly invisible and very dangerous because of its transparency, which makes it appear to be the color of whatever the surface beneath it is.

Due to fluctuating temperatures, black ice appears frequently and everywhere in March and April. There is a significant possibility that black ice will develop whenever the temperature in Massachusetts rises above 32 degrees and then falls to 32 degrees or lower.

We less frequently notice black ice on pavements, steps, pathways, and parking lots than it is on roads and streets. 

Black ice is particularly hazardous in parking lots since it is so challenging to see. Black ice can frequently be mistaken for a lack of precipitation, a puddle, or even just moist asphalt. Black ice could sneak up on you utterly unnoticed until it is too late.

Slip and Fall Injuries Caused by Black Ice in Massachusetts:

  • Damaged ribs
  • Sprained muscles
  • strained ligaments
  • Hernias
  • spinal cord damage
  • head trauma
  • shattered or broken wrists, ankles, or hips
  • neck and back pain

Tips For Traversing Massachusetts Parking Lots’ Black Ice:

  • Test the Surface: Whenever you step out of the car and place your entire weight on your foot, place one foot on the floor and slip your shoe to see how slick it is.
  • Make absolutely sure you walk DOWN onto the floor when getting out of your automobile in a parking lot rather than out. Stepping out increases the likelihood of losing balance and falling, but stepping down helps to center your gravity.
  • Look Up: As you walk, keep an eye out for any ice in the area before you, and move slowly.
  • Search for Salt and Sand: Try to avoid walking on any portions of the car park where there is salt or sand on the ground.