Black Ice Causes Nationwide Accidents and Overcrowded ERs in Germany

Germany faced a wave of accidents overnight as black ice formed on roads and streets, leading to numerous incidents across the country. By early Sunday morning, authorities in the eastern state of Saxony reported at least 32 accidents. Emergency rooms, particularly in the capital Berlin, experienced overcrowding due to individuals suffering from various injuries, including bone fractures, as a result of the icy conditions.

The German Weather Service has indicated that slippery conditions are likely to persist until around midday, especially in central regions. There is a possibility of drizzle, which could freeze on surfaces, further exacerbating the hazards. However, warmer temperatures are anticipated later in the day, which should help alleviate the black ice problem.

Local police in Saxony noted that emergency response teams were primarily occupied with these incidents. In one notable case in Zwickau, a driver collided with a traffic sign due to the treacherous road conditions. Investigators estimated the damage from that incident at approximately €23,000 (about $27,000), although fortunately, the driver did not sustain any injuries.

In another incident in eastern Hesse, a 19-year-old lost control of his vehicle on the icy road. The car rolled over several times, leaving both the driver and his 20-year-old passenger with serious injuries. Paramedics transported them to the hospital for treatment.

Additionally, in southern Hesse, an 18-year-old woman lost control of her car while attempting to pass another vehicle on a slippery road. Her vehicle veered down an embankment, crashing into a tree. While her passenger sustained minor injuries, first responders treated them at the scene.

These events follow a series of accidents on Friday night and Saturday morning, particularly in northern Germany, where icy conditions had already created hazardous travel situations. Authorities continue to urge drivers to exercise caution as conditions remain unpredictable.