According to the Ministry of the Interior and Safety, 4,112 traffic accidents caused by road icing occurred over the past five years (2020–2024), resulting in 83 deaths and 6,664 injuries. Of these accidents, 78% (3,198 cases) occurred in December and January, and surprisingly, more accidents happened on clear or cloudy days than on snowy or rainy days.
Data from the Traffic Accident Analysis System (TAAS) of the Korea Expressway Corporation shows that the highest number of accidents, 798 cases, occurred between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m., when temperatures are low and traffic volume increases during rush hours. The fatality rate was highest between noon and 2 p.m., at 3.8%.
Braking distance on icy roads can increase up to seven times compared to dry conditions, making it crucial to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. ‘Black ice,’ which is hard to see, poses a particularly high risk. Sudden braking or steering should be avoided on icy or snowy roads.
The Ministry recommends checking weather and road conditions before driving in winter, identifying areas prone to icing, and preparing winter driving supplies such as snow chains and winter tires. Director Hwang Gi-yeon emphasized maintaining safe distances and driving at safe speeds regardless of weather conditions.