Snow, ice, rain, wind, and other poor weather conditions lead to dangerous roads and are a leading risk of auto accidents.
As convenient as driving is, most people know that the road can be treacherous. Auto accidents occur in startling numbers each year on roads all across America. Unfortunately, poor weather conditions can further increase auto accidents’ risk. Statistics show that bad weather leads to over one million car accidents in America each year. These car accidents often result in severe injury and costly property damage.
Dangers of Poor Weather Conditions
Conditions such as rain, fog, sleet, and snow can limit visibility, decrease traction, reduce speed control, and slow the reaction time for brakes. However, these are not the only dangers of poor weather conditions.
One factor that increases the risk of an auto accident in poor weather conditions is driver error. Many drivers fail to respond appropriately when the weather is terrible due to inexperience or neglect. When weather conditions are poor, drivers should respond by decreasing their speed and space between other vehicles, allowing themselves plenty of time to react to potentially dangerous situations. Unfortunately, those who fail to take these precautions put themselves and others on the road in danger.
Proving Liability for Accidents in Poor Weather
If you or someone you know was involved in a car accident when the weather was notably bad, proving liability can be complicated. Insurance companies are usually quick to deny liability by blaming the weather. However, suppose another driver proves failure to take necessary safety precautions, even in poor weather conditions. In that case, they can be held liable for the accident and any resulting damages.
In cases when the weather may have heightened the risk of auto accidents, insurance companies and attorneys will look for the following to determine if one of the drivers can be held liable:
- Was the driver traveling at a safe speed given the road conditions?
- Was the driver following too close to other drivers?
- Could either driver take action to avoid the accident?
Contact Flickinger • Boulton • Robson • Weeks for a Case Evaluation
Although the risk of poor weather leads to a higher risk of auto accidents, victims in Utah may still have a right to compensation for damages suffered during such an accident. The best way for an injury victim to ensure they receive the payment due for such damages is to work with an experienced auto accident attorney, such as those at Flickinger • Boulton • Robson • Weeks. Our attorneys will prove a strong liability case to ensure that our clients receive payment for the damages caused by another driver’s reckless or negligent actions.
Have you been involved in an auto accident during poor weather conditions? A liable party can still be held accountable for any physical, emotional, or financial damages you may have suffered. We serve the citizens of Utah and have offices in Provo and South Jordan. Get in touch with us now to discuss the details of your case and learn more about your legal options.
