Drivers warned of hidden killer on winter roads after horror crash
The advice comes as Victoria Police investigate whether black ice warning signs had been switched on early this morning before a multi-car accident on the Western Freeway. Three vehicles are believed to have hit black ice along the freeway at Gordon, near Ballarat, just after 6am. A caller to radio station 3AW claimed the warning signs were offline at the time.
Black ice is a thin, transparent layer of ice that forms on roads and other surfaces — especially in cold or early morning conditions — and is extremely difficult to see. Despite the name, it's not black —it looks "black" because it blends in with the dark asphalt underneath, making it nearly invisible to drivers.
Speaking to Yahoo News Australia, a Victoria Department of Transport and Planning spokesperson said ice detectors and warning signs are installed in high-risk areas across the state to help keep all road users safe, with three in place along the Western Freeway.
They said technicians have inspected the warning lights on the Western Freeway and confirmed they are functioning. "Winter weather is well and truly here, and we remind everyone to please drive to conditions — slow down and stay a safe distance from the car in front," the spokesperson said. "We encourage motorists to allow plenty of time, drive carefully and delay your trip to avoid icy conditions."
A 59-year-old man was airlifted to the Royal Melbourne Hospital with serious injuries, while two people in their 20s, a man and a woman, were taken to Ballarat Hospital. Another woman in her 40s was also taken to Ballarat Hospital for monitoring and is in a stable condition.
"Visiting the snow is a popular tradition for many, and an exciting trip for tourists, but it's important to remember it can quickly turn into a very serious situation if you're not prepared," Victoria Police Eastern Region Division Four Superintendent, Joy Arbuthnot, warned.
"If you arrive without snow chains or the proper preparation, you'll be turned around."
Aussies left unable to drive as cold, icy weather takes over
Road warning for millions weekend amid wild weather, safety blitz
Incredible pictures show Aussie towns blanketed in snow
Roads appear damp or glossy, but there's no visible water spray from other vehicles.
It's early morning, especially following a clear, cold night.
You're driving through low-lying areas, shaded bends, or bridges.
Drivers often don't realise it's there until they've lost control — steering, braking, and acceleration all become unpredictable.
Vehicles can skid or slide unexpectedly, especially if travelling at speed or turning.
Meanwhile, the NSW government on Friday is warning drivers headed to the Snowy Mountains to stay safe, after two separate incidents in six hours.
Incredible images show both a van and an SUV having veered off the road and into a snowy ditch, with the van partially submerged in ice. "The van lost traction as snow chains weren't fitted, and the car lost control while braking downhill on an icy stretch of road," NSW Road Safety said.
"Thankfully, no one was hurt, but it's a good reminder to slow down, fit snow chains when required and always drive to conditions in the snow."
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