How Can I Demonstrate Liability for a Car Accident in Winter Weather?
Wisconsin is known for its long, relentless winters. Wisconsinites experience more than 30 snowstorms each year, forcing us to adapt to work, play, and drive in harsh conditions. To those who are no strangers to the snow, driving in inclement weather is normal, but accidents still happen. If you have been in a collision, understanding the factors surrounding liability for a winter weather car accident claims can prepare you for how to proceed.
Determining Liability
Rain or shine, drivers are expected to follow safe driving laws. When winter weather hits, it is important to take extra precautions by taking it slow, allowing extra travel time, and remembering that sudden braking and steering can cause loss of vehicle control. Not all car accidents cause life-altering injuries, but property damage is likely to occur in even the most minor fender benders.
When unforeseen circumstances, such as snow or ice, play a part in car accidents, determining who was at fault for a collision may be difficult. In these cases, multiple factors may play a role, including:
- Current road conditions
- Witness statements
- Your testimony
- Evidence (photographs, skid marks on the pavement, car damage)
Foul Weather or Fault?
If a driver coasts through an intersection, is unable to brake because of icy road conditions, and T-bones another vehicle, they may not believe they were to blame for the collision. Victims in these cases will want to ensure that all factors are considered in order to ensure that they can receive compensation for their damages. If you have sustained injuries in this type of car accident, you can work with your attorney to demonstrate liability by proving fault through intentional behavior, negligence, and strict liability. This may allow you to recover compensation for lost wages, medical bills, property damage, and physical and emotional pain and suffering.
Contact Our Milwaukee Auto Accident Lawyers Today
When car accidents occur during inclement weather, they may involve a variety of complex factors, and multiple parties may be at fault. In these cases, you will want to work with an attorney who can help you gather the proper evidence that will establish fault for the accident. At Gimbel, Reilly, Guerin & Brown, LLP we are prepared to help you pursue compensation that fully addresses the damages you have experienced, allowing you to make a full recovery and ensuring that you will be able to maintain financial stability. Contact our Milwaukee, WI car accident attorneys at 414-271-1440 today.
Sources:
https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/safety/education/winter-drv/default.aspx