We all know that driving is more dangerous in bad weather. Road conditions deteriorate, visibility decreases, traffic may stop and start, and vehicle performance is affected. Drivers must be at their best in rain, snow and ice. Unfortunately, many people fail to adjust their driving to dangerous weather conditions.
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration reports that on average every year there are more than 5,760,000 vehicle accidents. Approximately 22 percent of these accidents have weather-related causes. As a result, each year the U.S. averages almost 6,000 fatal accidents and more than 445,000 accidents with injuries caused by bad weather.
This does not mean that all car accidents involving snow and ice are simply the weather’s fault, however. There can be other factors as well. The other driver may have been driving recklessly for the weather conditions. The road’s design may be faulty, making it dangerous when there is snow and ice. You won’t know whether there are other factors and negligent third parties involved until you discuss the accident with a lawyer.
Car accident victims may suffer injuries that affect them for months or years. Broken bones, back injuries and concussions can take many months to heal, causing the injury victims to miss work, school and other daily activities.
Catastrophic injuries can change an accident victim’s life forever. Moderate or severe traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, burns, amputations and organ damage can result in a lifetime of disability. In the worst cases, these injuries are fatal.
Regardless of the weather conditions, people injured in vehicle accidents need to understand their rights. Experienced personal injury attorneys know how to investigate accidents and determine who is liable for the property damage and injuries.
