Which condition increases the risk of encountering black ice?

The condition that increases the risk of encountering black ice is cold temperatures in the evening. During the evening, as temperatures drop, moisture on the roadway can freeze, particularly in shaded areas where the sun does not reach. This can lead to the formation of black ice, which is notoriously difficult for drivers to detect because it blends in with the asphalt, making the road appear merely wet rather than icy.

In contrast, bright sunlight typically helps to melt any ice or frost that has formed during the night, decreasing the chance of encountering black ice. Heavy rain can create slick road conditions but is less likely to cause black ice since the water can dilute and wash away the ice formation risk. Warm summer days create conditions that are usually too warm for ice to form at all, further reducing the likelihood of black ice developing. Understanding these conditions is crucial for safe driving, particularly in regions that experience cold weather.