Common Car Accidents Caused By Winter Weather

 Posted on January 23, 2018 in Car Accidents

Winter in the Midwest brings bitter cold and a great deal of snow and ice. While these conditions are often seen as an inconvenience, they can have a major impact on roadway safety. Every year, winter car accidents lead to more than 1,300 deaths and 116,000 injuries across the United States. People should be aware of the potential for accidents that can result from the following causes.

Slippery Roads

Snow and ice on the road can create a major hazard for drivers, affecting their ability to slow down, stop properly, and negotiate turns and hills. “Black ice,” which results when a thin layer of water freezes on the road, can be especially dangerous, since it is difficult to recognize and can lead to a complete loss of control of a driver’s vehicle.

Slick roads can lead to the following accidents:

• Rear-end collisions - Difficulty slowing down and stopping often results in drivers striking the car in front of them at intersections or when a vehicle slows down to make a turn.
• Sliding through intersections - Inability to stop can lead to a car sliding through a stop sign or red light and striking other vehicles or pedestrians.
• Parking lot accidents - Parking lots may not have been fully plowed or de-iced, and drivers who do not take care may lose control of their vehicle, causing them to strike other cars, pedestrians, buildings, or other objects.

Accidents can be avoided on slippery surfaces by driving slowly, following other cars at a longer distance, and leaving plenty of room when slowing down or coming to a stop.

Low Visibility

Winter storms can greatly reduce visibility for drivers. Snow being blown across the road by strong winds, as well as thick fog can make it difficult to see other vehicles on the road. Moreover, snow that has drifted or has been plowed on the side of the road can hide objects or pedestrians from view. These conditions can cause drivers to strike cars, pedestrians, or objects or even run off the road altogether. These accidents can be avoided by driving slowly and carefully and paying close attention to one’s surroundings. 

Improper Vehicle Maintenance 

Drivers who do not keep their vehicles maintained can create dangerous conditions not only for themselves, but for other people on the road. Maintenance issues that can lead to car accidents include: 

• Tires - Worn out tires reduce traction, therefore making it harder to slow down, stop, and turn on snow and ice.
• Windshield wipers and defrosters - When these systems are not functioning properly, a driver’s visibility can be greatly reduced.
• Headlights and taillights - Working vehicle lights are important not only for allowing a driver to see the road, but for ensuring that they are visible to other drivers.

Contact a Milwaukee, WI, Personal Injury Attorney 

When an accident occurs because a driver fails to drive safely or properly maintain his or her car in winter weather, he or she may be held liable for the damages caused. If you have been injured in a car accident during the winter, the attorneys of Gimbel, Reilly, Guerin & Brown, LLP can help you receive compensation for your injuries. Contact our experienced Milwaukee car accident lawyers today at 414-271-1440.

Sources:

https://www.insurancehotline.com/common-winter-car-accidents-avoiding-crashes-in-winter-conditions/

http://www.safewinterroads.org/safety/

https://www.accurateautoins.com/3-most-common-causes-of-winter-car-accidents/