Were you involved in a motor vehicle collision in Southern California? Was the weather a factor? If so, it could potentially have an impact on your side. Weather contributes to a significant number of car accidents—but it certainly does not absolve motorists of their duty to drive safely. At The JLF Firm, we fight for the rights of injured victims. Here, our Riverside car accident lawyer provides a comprehensive overview of the key things to know about weather-related car crashes in California.
Know the Data: Weather a Factor in One in Five Crashes Nationwide
There are more than five million motor vehicle collisions reported nationwide each year. According to comprehensive data cited by the Department of Transportation (DOT), weather is a factor in approximately 20 percent of those accidents. In other words, that means that adverse weather conditions contribute to around one million car crashes in the United States each year. Some examples of adverse weather conditions that heighten the risk of accidents include:
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- Rain: Wet roads can reduce tire traction—making it harder to brake.
- Wind: Strong winds can push vehicles off course, especially high-profile vehicles like trucks. Snow and Ice: Snowy or icy conditions can severely impair traction, making it difficult to control the vehicle and stop effectively.
- Fog: Reduced visibility from fog can make it difficult for drivers to see.
- Hail: Hail can damage vehicles and create sudden, extremely hazardous driving conditions.
- Dust: In areas prone to dust storms, visibility can be reduced dramatically.
- Sun Glare: An underappreciated risk, very bright sunlight can temporarily blind a driver.
- Snow: While less common in Southern California, snowy conditions are very dangerous.
What to Do After an Accident Due to Weather Conditions
Were you involved in a bad weather automobile accident in Riverside or elsewhere in Southern California? It is imperative that you proactively protect your safety, your rights, and your interests.
Here are four steps to take after a weather-related collision:
- Stop Your Car, Report the Crash: Traffic regulations in our state require all motorists to halt their automobile, exchange information and remain at the scene of the collision unless there is a medical emergency. You should report the accident to law enforcement, such as the Riverside Police Department or another agency.
- Stay Safe and Get Medical Care: Your safety is always a top priority at the scene of the accident, especially in poor weather conditions. All motor vehicle accident injuries should be carefully evaluated by a doctor. Common injuries can arise with a delayed onset—and if you do not have medical records, you cannot bring a claim.
- Document the Crash (Including Weather): As California is a tort state, it is vital that you document a crash. Take pictures, note witnesses, and write down what happened. You should be sure to include any details about the poor weather conditions.
- Speak to a Lawyer Before an Insurer: Insurance adjusters are not on your side. Even if you are talking to your own insurance company, you need to be extremely careful. Protect your rights by working with insurers through a top-tier California bad weather accident lawyer.
Poor Weather Does Not Absolve a Motorist’s Duty to Operate their Vehicle Safely
Driving in any type of adverse weather conditions requires extra caution. In most cases, motorists should adjust to the weather, often by slowing down and leaving more space between their car and other vehicles. Poor weather conditions, while challenging, do not absolve a motorist’s responsibility to operate their vehicle safely. Indeed, drivers are expected to adjust their driving behavior according to the road conditions. The legal principle of “negligence” still applies. A driver who fails to adapt safely to adverse weather conditions may be deemed careless (negligent). It could lead to a finding of liability in a crash.
California is a Fault-Based Motor Vehicle Accident Jurisdiction
Who can be held legally responsible for a car crash in California? The short answer is that our state is a fault-based motor vehicle accident jurisdiction (tort state). Any party whose negligence contributed to a crash can be held legally responsible for the resulting damages. A thorough investigation of a bad weather accident is a must.
Automobile Accident Victims Need the Maximum Financial Compensation
Hurt in a weather-related car accident in California? You need compensation to pay your bills and support your family. Unfortunately, automobile accident victims cannot depend on insurance companies to willingly step up and pay out a full and fair settlement. Our Riverside, CA auto accident lawyers fight tirelessly to help clients secure the maximum financial support, including for:
- Property loss, such as vehicle repairs;
- Emergency room treatment;
- Hospital bills and other health costs;
- Physical therapy and rehabilitative care;
- Loss of wages, including diminished earning power;
- Pain and suffering & mental health trauma;
- Disability or disfigurement; and
- Wrongful death of a family.
Why Car Crash Victims in Southern California Depend On The JLF Firm
A car accident can be stressful, confusing, and overwhelming. Navigating the aftermath can be especially difficult if bad weather contributed to the crash. At The JLF Firm, we are an award-winning car accident injury firm that knows how to hold insurance companies accountable for paying claims. Along with other things, our Riverside car crash lawyers will:
- Conduct a free, in-depth review and evaluation of your case;
- Investigate your car accident—gathering and organizing evidence;
- Determine exactly how weather had an impact on the crash;
- Handle the legal paperwork and settlement talks with insurers; and
- Develop a personalized strategy to maximize your financial recovery.
Contact Our Riverside, CA Auto Accident Attorney for a Free Case Review
At The JLF Firm, our Riverside car crash lawyers are standing by, ready to protect your rights and your interests. If you have any questions or concerns about how adverse weather conditions can affect liability for a crash, we are here to help. Contact our personal injury team today for a no cost, no strings attached consultation.
