When weather strikes suddenly, motorists often get tragically caught in hazardous road conditions. The Texas ice storm of 2021 is one such occurrence that left a grim mark on our Metroplex, particularly evident on the I-35 tollway where a massive 100-vehicle pileup resulted in six fatalities and numerous injuries. This was one of the most destructive crashes in Texas history, causing numerous physical and emotional damages that left survivors wondering who was to blame.
This specific incident highlights the substantial impact of severe weather on our roadways and how Mother Nature can complicate ascertaining liability in car accidents.
Regardless of weather conditions, negligence can still be the driving factor in an accident. To prove another driver or even a third party was responsible for your accident is difficult to do on your own. This is where an experienced Dallas car accident attorney can assist in sorting out the complexities of weather-related accidents, helping you prove fault when needed and seek compensation for your medical bills, time off work, and other damages.
In this article, our team at the Law Offices of Tim O’Hare will explore the challenges involved in proving fault in weather-related car accidents and the strategies that can be used to overcome them. We will also discuss how personal injury lawyers advocate for the rights of victims and tirelessly pursue compensation for the damages sustained in these unfortunate accidents.
Understanding the Complexity of Weather-Related Car Accidents
Weather-related car accidents can be incredibly complex, with various factors contributing to the cause of the accident. From rain and snow to fog and black ice, these conditions can significantly impact road visibility, traction, and overall driving conditions, making driving more dangerous.
When it comes to determining fault in such cases, things can get even more complicated. Weather-related accidents are often difficult to prove, but not impossible. There are several reasons why drivers or other entities may be liable for an accident during adverse weather conditions:
- Drivers are expected to adapt their driving behavior: In any type of weather, drivers are expected to adjust their speed in a manner that is safe for the road conditions. For example, if a driver is driving too quickly on slick roads and loses control, causing an accident, this party could be considered liable. Try to remember back to your driver’s safety course, for every adverse road condition present, be it ice, fog, rain, etc., you should drive five miles per hour under the posted speed limit. When someone does not do this and causes a collision in adverse weather conditions, they may be held liable.
- Drivers are expected to maintain their vehicle: Drivers are obligated to uphold the proper maintenance of their vehicles including all of the various parts that ensure safe driving. Neglecting this responsibility can significantly heighten the risk of auto accidents, particularly in adverse weather conditions. In instances where a driver fails to adequately maintain their vehicle, resulting in a collision, the negligent party may bear responsibility for the ensuing damages and injuries. This is most often due to balding tires or faulty brakes. As the weather changes this winter, perform or have a professional inspect and perform maintenance on your vehicle to make sure your tires and brakes are ready for inclement weather.
- Roadways are expected to be treated properly for adverse weather conditions: In addition to drivers maintaining their vehicles, roadways should be suitably treated for adverse weather conditions. Private entities contracted or tasked with the responsibility of roadway maintenance carry a pivotal duty to ensure comprehensive measures, adequate training, and the latest technologies are implemented to counteract the impact of inclement weather. In cases where these private companies neglect their obligations in roadway maintenance such as the situation in 2021, they may contribute to precarious driving conditions, thereby elevating the likelihood of accidents. Holding these entities accountable for their role in upholding road safety standards during adverse weather is indispensable for the protection of public welfare and the prevention of foreseeable collisions.
Seeking Legal Guidance for Weather-Related Car Accidents
As you’ve read already, weather is not always solely the blame for car accidents. Multiple factors can contribute to the accident, and multiple parties may be found liable. If you have been involved in such an accident, seeking legal guidance from experienced lawyers can be invaluable to your case.
Here’s how an experienced Dallas car accident attorney will work for you behind the scenes:
Gathering Evidence
An experienced weather-related car accident attorney, like the ones at the Law Offices of Tim O’Hare, can help you identify the critical evidence necessary to build a strong case. They can assist you in gathering evidence, such as weather reports, witness testimonies, photographs of the accident scene, and police reports, to establish fault.
Negotiating for a Fair Settlement
Injured in a Texas weather-related car accident?
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a car accident during bad weather conditions, our experienced Texas car accident and truck wreck lawyers are here to help. The team at the Law Offices of Tim O’Hare boasts a reputation for profound knowledge and expertise in handling such cases, consistently delivering successful outcomes for our clients. When facing legal challenges, you want our experienced team on your side in court. Contact us today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation and take the first step toward securing the legal representation you deserve.
