Weather Conditions that Effect Auto Accidents
Not all car accidents are the result of driver behavior. Over 1.2 million weather-related car crashes happen in the US every year, according to the Federal Highway Administration. The largest number occurs on wet roads while it is raining. Snow, sleet, and ice come in a close second. 3% of weather-related accidents occur in heavy fog.
Even drivers doing their best to drive carefully can wind up in an accident because of adverse weather conditions. It can help you stay safe to understand how each type of weather condition contributes to auto accidents.
Heavy Rain and Wet Roads
Water on the roads is inherently dangerous. 70% of weather-related crashes occur on wet roads and 46% occur while it is raining.
Wet roads are slippery with less grip between your tires and the pavement. This means that sudden stops and turns are more likely to slip. Deeper water can result in hydroplaning, a complete out-of-control period in which there is no traction between your vehicle and the pavement, but you continue to move at your original velocity (direction and speed).
Heavy rain not only creates wet roads and deep puddles, but it also severely reduces visibility. Even light rain can be distracting and very light rain can result in obscuring smears over the windshield. Very heavy rain can make it difficult to see even with windshield wipers at their highest setting.
Strong Winds
Strong winds push against your vehicle and can push you out of position. There is a reason certain bridges and mountain passes have high wind warning signs. Heavier cars with lower centers of gravity are the safest in high winds, but may still require constant course-correction to keep from being blown into another lane. Tall and lightweight vehicles are at the most risk, and tall vehicles with a high center of gravity can even be toppled over by very strong winds.
Snowfall, Cold Weather, and Icy Roads
Cold weather, snow, and ice comprise another large percentage of accident-causing weather conditions. 18% of weather-related accidents occurred during snow or sleet, 16% occurred on snowy or slushy roads, and 13% occurred on icy roads.
Snow creates a dual risk of deep piles and slippery roads, while also reducing visibility when it is actively snowing. Sleet is even more dangerous as it can re-freeze directly on your windshield forming an ice barrier that wipers alone can't stop and - in fact - can damage your wipers so they are less effective during the rest of the storm.
Ice on the roads can occur even in clear weather with a combination of moisture, a water source, or high humidity and cold weather. When ice forms, it can be invisible until cars lose traction and slip out of control.
Fog and Heavy Mist
Fog is also a high-risk weather condition. Fog reduces visibility to a very short distance around your vehicle. It can be tempting to continue moving at a normal speed because there are no obstructions or puddles, unlike snow or heavy rain, but fog can make it difficult to impossible to see obstacles or even other vehicles around you.
Fog and heavy mist represent 3% of weather-related accidents, and it is always worth taking precautions to avoid becoming one of those 3%.
Road Conditions and Bad Weather
Adverse weather conditions can have a serious effect on the safety of the roads. It is important to always take safety measures when the weather goes bad, even if other drivers are not exercising the same caution around you. Slow down and drive carefully, watching for hazards like puddles or obstacles in the road. Manage your windshield wipers and defrost settings carefully to maintain the best visibility.
If conditions are too dangerous or you are fatigued and can't drive with your best care, find a safe place to stop and wait for the weather to improve or your energy to return. It's OK to stop for dinner or book a room for the night in order to stay safe.
How Weather Can Affect Car Accident Liability
Weather-related accidents are more complex when it comes to insurance claims. Insurance companies often want to look for some amount of fault. Perhaps there was a reckless driver who was less careful in the bad weather. Or maybe you just hit a bad patch of ice going at a safe speed in winter conditions. If you are struggling to get a fair insurance settlement after a weather-related car accident, Schwartz Law Firm is here to help.
Contact us to discuss the details of your case and take the first steps toward a fair settlement.
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