Car Accidents Caused by Ice and Snow: What You Need to Know

Last updated on January 21, 2025

Hazardous driving conditions are a part of Connecticut winters. Ice and snow are leading causes of car accidents during the winter months, often resulting in serious injuries and property damage. If you’ve been involved in a car accident caused by icy or snowy roads, you might feel uncertain about what to do next, especially when it comes to determining fault.

How Tremont Sheldon Can Help

At Tremont Sheldon PC, our attorneys have more than 50 years of experience representing car accident victims. We understand how to build your case and how to maximize what you receive for your injuries. We have recovered millions of dollars for people who have suffered serious injuries, and we have handled many car accidents involving winter driving conditions. We are committed to helping you recover by securing compensation for your injuries and by supporting you throughout your recovery.

Understanding Winter Driving Accidents

Driving in winter conditions requires extra caution. Snow, ice, sleet, and freezing rain can reduce traction and visibility, making it more difficult to control your vehicle. Unfortunately, many accidents occur because drivers fail to adjust their behavior to account for these challenges. Common causes of winter accidents include:

1. Driving too fast for conditions — speed limits are designed for ideal conditions, but winter roads are not ideal. A driver traveling at the posted limit on icy roads may still be considered negligent if their speed is unsafe for the conditions.
2. Failure to clear snow and ice — drivers are legally required to clear snow and ice from their vehicles in Connecticut. Failing to do so can lead to falling debris that obstructs visibility or damages other vehicles.
3. Tailgating — reduced traction in winter means vehicles take longer to stop. Following too closely behind another vehicle can result in rear-end collisions. Drivers are required to maintain a safe distance between vehicles.
4. Improper braking or steering — sudden braking or jerky steering can cause a car to lose traction and slide on icy roads, leading to accidents. Sometimes, inexperienced drivers are more likely to make sudden steering or braking actions in the snow.

Determining Fault

One common misconception about winter accidents is that no one is at fault because the weather is to blame. While ice and snow contribute to accidents, liability often lies with the driver and not the weather.

In Connecticut, drivers are legally required to operate their vehicles safely, even in bad weather conditions. This means adjusting speed, maintaining a safe following distance, and being prepared for unexpected hazards. When a driver fails to take these precautions, they can be held responsible for causing an accident.

For example, if a driver loses control on an icy patch while traveling too fast for conditions, they may be found at fault for the crash. Similarly, if someone rear-ends another car because they didn’t leave enough space to stop on a snowy road, they can be held liable, regardless of the weather.

Establishing liability often involves gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and weather data. It may also require an accident reconstruction expert. Working with an experienced car accident attorney can make a significant difference in proving fault and securing compensation.

What If It Was a Single-Car Accident?

Single-car accidents are common during icy and snowy conditions. These accidents can occur when a driver loses control, skids off the road, or hits a stationary object. While it might seem like the driver is always at fault in these cases, that’s not necessarily true. Several things can contribute to single-car accidents, including:

• Poorly maintained roads — icy patches on bridges, untreated intersections, or uncleared snow can create dangerous conditions. In some cases, a municipality or property owner may be responsible for failing to maintain safe roads.
• Falling ice or snow from other vehicles — if ice or snow falls from another vehicle and causes a driver to swerve or crash, the driver of the vehicle that failed to clear its roof may be held liable.
• Vehicle defects — mechanical failures, such as malfunctioning brakes or traction control systems, can contribute to single-car accidents. In these situations, the vehicle manufacturer or a repair shop might share responsibility.

If you’ve been involved in a single-car accident, don’t assume you’re to blame. An attorney can investigate the circumstances and help determine whether another party’s negligence played a role.

What to Do After a Winter Car Accident

Whether your accident involved multiple vehicles or just your own, taking the right steps afterward can protect your health and your rights:

1. Prioritize safety — move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries. Call 911 if anyone is hurt or if the accident involves significant property damage.
2. Document the scene — take photos of the accident, including the road conditions, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. These images can be valuable evidence in your case.
3. Exchange information — obtain contact and insurance information from the other driver(s) involved. If the accident was caused by falling ice or snow, try to identify the vehicle responsible.
4. Report the accident — file a police report to create an official record of the accident. This is especially important in determining fault and supporting your insurance claim.
5. Seek medical attention — even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, it’s important to see a doctor. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms right away.
6. Contact an attorney — dealing with insurance companies and proving fault in winter accidents can be challenging. An experienced attorney can handle these issues on your behalf, allowing you to focus on your recovery.

Where Winter Accidents Occur in Connecticut

Winter accidents in Connecticut can happen anywhere, but certain areas are especially prone to crashes due to a combination of high traffic volumes, challenging terrain, or unique conditions that accumulate wintry weather.

Highways and Interstates

Connecticut’s highways and interstates are frequent sites of winter car accidents. These roads see high traffic volumes, making them particularly dangerous when snow and ice reduce traction and visibility.

• Interstate 95 (I-95) — as one of the busiest highways in Connecticut, I-95 sees significant congestion, especially near cities like Bridgeport, Stamford, and New Haven. In winter, icy overpasses and ramps are hotspots for accidents.
• Interstate 91 (I-91) — stretching from New Haven to Hartford and beyond, I-91 is a key route for commuters. Intersections with other highways along I-91 can become treacherous during snow storms.
• Interstate 84 (I-84) — running through Waterbury, Danbury, and Hartford, I-84 is known for several steep grades and sharp curves. These features, combined with snow and ice, contribute to frequent winter collisions.
• Merritt Parkway (Route 15) — this historic, scenic route experiences heavy traffic, and its narrow lanes and lack of shoulders make it particularly hazardous during winter weather.

Local Roads and Suburban Areas

While highways account for many winter accidents, local roads also pose significant risks:

• Residential neighborhoods — icy streets in residential areas can lead to slip-and-slide accidents, especially at intersections or on hills. These accidents often occur at slower speeds but can still cause significant damage.
• Suburban shopping areas — parking lots and access roads near malls and retail centers are accident-prone during the winter.

Bridges, Overpasses, and Ramps

Bridges and overpasses are particularly dangerous in winter because they freeze faster than surrounding road surfaces. Black ice, an invisible layer of ice, frequently forms on these structures and has caused numerous accidents across the state.

• Pearl Harbor Memorial Bridge — carrying I-95 over the Quinnipiac River in New Haven, this elevated structure is prone to freezing in winter.
• Gold Star Memorial Bridge — spanning the Thames River on I-95 in New London, this bridge is another hotspot for icy conditions and winter crashes.

Mountainous and Hilly Areas

Regions with steep inclines and declines, such as those in northern and western Connecticut, are particularly susceptible to winter accidents. Roads in areas like Kent or Norfolk can be challenging to navigate when covered in snow or ice.

Take Action Today

Winter accidents can leave you feeling overwhelmed, but you don’t have to face this situation alone. If you’ve been injured in a car accident caused by ice or snow, let Tremont Sheldon PC help you navigate the legal process. Our experienced and compassionate team is here to answer your questions, handle the complexities of your case, fight for the compensation you deserve and help you recover from your injuries.

Call us today at 203-212-9075 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation. Let us take care of your case so you can focus on your recovery.

FAQs

How soon should I contact an attorney after a winter car accident?

It’s best to contact an attorney as soon as possible after the accident. Early legal guidance can help preserve evidence, ensure you meet deadlines, and reduce the stress of dealing with insurance companies on your own.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a car accident caused by ice or snow in Connecticut?

In Connecticut, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a car accident is generally two years from the date of the accident. This means you have two years to initiate legal action if you are seeking compensation for injuries, property damage, or other losses caused by the crash. There are some exceptions to this rule that require earlier notice to certain parties or extend the two-year limit. An attorney will make sure you meet all deadlines required by your specific situation.

Can I file a claim if my accident involved only my vehicle?

Yes. Single-car accidents can still lead to valid claims if factors like poorly maintained roads, falling debris, or mechanical defects contributed to the crash. You may be able to hold a municipality, property owner, or manufacturer accountable.

What should I do if ice or snow falls off another vehicle and causes an accident?

If another vehicle’s snow or ice causes your accident, try to identify the vehicle and its driver. In Connecticut, drivers are required to clear snow and ice from their cars, and failure to do so could make them liable for damages.

Can I still sue if I was partly at fault for the accident?

Yes, depending on the circumstances of your accident. Connecticut follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can recover compensation as long as you are less than 51% at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.