It rains for about 120 days of the year in Georgia, and that number does not even account for snow storms or ice. At Gautreaux Law, our personal injury team knows that almost every driver in Central and Middle Georgia will encounter bad weather on the road at some point, which can increase your risk of getting into an accident.
While no one can control the weather, each driver is responsible for making safe decisions even in bad conditions. If you have been in an accident caused by someone else’s negligent driving in adverse weather, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact Gautreaux Law for a consultation to learn how we can help you today.
How common are car accidents in bad weather?
According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Commission, about 21% of motor vehicle accidents across the United States occur in hazardous weather conditions. That accounts for about 1.2 million collisions annually, many of which result in serious injuries or fatalities.
Rain, snow, and fog can all skew visibility, making it harder for drivers to see the road or other vehicles. Not only that, but wet pavement also reduces the traction and maneuverability of cars on the road, so drivers may have a difficult time remaining in control.
Determining Fault in a Bad Weather Accident
Bad weather is not anyone’s fault, but the driving choices you make in adverse conditions could leave you liable for a wreck. When determining who is responsible for an accident in bad weather, insurance adjusters or court judges will examine the following factors:
Speeding
Speeding is one of the biggest causes of car accidents across the country, whether it happens in adverse conditions or not. Going over the speed limit in rain, ice, or fog is particularly dangerous because it:
- Reduces reaction time when visibility is already low
- Increases the risk of hydroplaning or skidding on the road
- Reduces the driver’s ability to stop in a safe and timely manner
- Limits the car’s visibility to other drivers on the road
Speeding is also completely avoidable. If someone is going too fast in bad weather, they may be considered liable for the collision and any associated injuries or damage.
Visibility
When it is dark and wet outside, it is important to make sure that your car is visible to other drivers. Forgetting to turn on your headlights is an easy mistake to make, but it can come at a high cost. Other vehicles may not notice when you change lanes, try to pass, or stop at an intersection, leading to an accident.
Distractions
Distracted driving is notoriously dangerous, even in the best conditions. Whether you are adjusting the radio, sending a text, or eating while driving, you are not entirely focused on the road and run the risk of making a serious mistake.
In adverse weather, distracted driving is even more hazardous. With the reduced traction on the road and limited visibility, you need to pay close attention to avoid hitting another car or skidding out of control. If a driver is shown to have been distracted during or right before an accident, they may be held liable for the collision.
Vehicle Maintenance
Drivers are responsible for taking reasonable precautions to keep their vehicles in good working order. When it comes to rain and other bad weather, it is particularly important to focus on the condition of your tires.
Bald tires have a hard enough time gripping dry pavement. When the road is wet, worn-out tires may contribute to skidding or hydroplaning. Failing to use chains or snow tires when required could also lead to a wreck.
In addition to tires, you should also make sure that your headlights and blinkers are all in working order. If they do not turn on or are not bright enough, other drivers may not see you when conditions are bad.
Seeking Justice for a Bad Weather Accident
Some people believe that if bad weather contributed to an accident, no one is at fault. However, this could not be further from reality. Negligent driving can happen in all conditions, and if another driver’s poor decisions led to a wreck, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Missed wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Wrongful death
Recovering damages for the accident can provide you with the resources and support you deserve to move forward.
Contact a Skilled Car Accident Attorney in Georgia Today
The thought of navigating a legal battle while trying to recover from a car accident is overwhelming for many people. This is why turning to a seasoned car accident attorney is vital.
At Gautreaux Law, our personal injury team can guide you through every step of the claims process. From gathering evidence to seeking a fair settlement, our experienced team will make the process as easy as possible and serve as your number one advocate.
If you want to learn more about how we can help you recover compensation after a bad-weather car accident in Central or Middle Georgia, contact us to schedule your free consultation today.