Georgia Department of Transportation officials are advising motorists in northwest Georgia to watch out for black ice on the highways.

These officials are concerned about this morning’s driving conditions and the possibility of black ice, which forms when a thin layer of water on the pavement freezes. It can be nearly impossible for drivers to spot it in time to slow down.

“Drivers on northwest Georgia roads are advised to use extreme caution if they have to go out early this morning,” said DeWayne Comer, a DOT district engineer in Cartersville. "You could run across a slick spot at any point," Comer said. "The morning commute may prove to be a real challenge."

Motorists are urged to slow down and leave, at least, a two car length distance between their vehicles and the vehicle in front of them. If you do hit an icy patch while driving, turn your steering wheel in the direction of the slide. Motorists are also advised to treat any traffic signal that is not working as a four-way stop, and be aware of black ice, especially on bridges and overpasses in the early morning hours.

Georgia Department of Transportation currently has at least one scouting truck out in each of the 17 counties of northwest Georgia. Two road clearing crews are also working at this time on treating some icy spots (mostly on bridges and overpasses) on Ga. 515 (Appalachian Development Highway) and Ga. 60 in Fannin County, and three crews treating some icy patches on Ga. 157 and Ga. 136 in Dade County.