Winter Weather and Car Crashes

Winter Weather and Car Crashes

Winter in the Desert

In fabulous Las Vegas, we are quite accustomed to our summer and sunshine, however, in the winter months, we still face some not-so-desert-like weather. Though it’s not often that the Vegas valley gets snow, winter can bring rain, fog, and dropping temperatures, which make for a deadly combination on our busy roadways. With residents being acclimated to less hazardous road conditions, when these weather factors play into the picture, drivers are not always ready or equipped to handle the precarious circumstances.

It’s often assumed that snow and ice cause the most weather-related car accidents, however, 46% of these crashes are actually due to rain. Rain on roadways becomes more dangerous the longer the amount of time is between rainfall. When it does not rain often, oil has the chance to build up on roadways, and when it does rain, the combination causes a slick reaction. Rain also results in hydroplaning, and standing water in areas of lower elevation.

Rain is frequently accompanied by fog, which can add to the already-heightened hazards on the roads during this time of the year. Fog decreases visibility, making it harder to see where you are headed, where other cars might be on the road, and can even inhibit the ability to decipher lanes. Due to this decreased visibility, reaction times can be delayed, and accidents are harder to avoid.

Accidents Abound

Slippery roads, standing water, and diminished visibility combine to make a treacherous trio. In hazardous road conditions like these, it is always safer to take precautions, and drive even more cautiously than usual. Ensure that your headlights are on, maintain a safe distance between you and other cars on the road, and decrease your speed to give yourself more time to react if something does occur while driving. By proactively preparing for inclement weather, you can greatly decrease your chances of getting into a winter-time car accident.

Unfortunately, regardless of how many precautions you take and how well-prepared you are, you cannot control how other drivers behave in the winter weather. Other individuals on the road may not find value in attempting to prevent being involved in an accident, or may not be knowledgeable in the various ways to do so. As a result of this, it is still very possible to experience a wintertime car crash by no fault of your own.

What Happens Next?

If you find yourself involved in a winter weather related car accident, it’s important to remain calm, gather all of the necessary information, and contact a trusted attorney to represent you. Our car accident attorneys at Eric Blank Injury Attorneys are knowledgeable with all variations of vehicular collisions and are prepared to assist you in your claim against the at-fault party. We understand how impactful an automobile accident can be to you and your family, both physically and emotionally.

If you or a loved one has suffered a physical injury due to the inconsideration and ill-preparation of another individual, our car crash attorneys at Eric Blank Injury Attorneys will represent you until you have been rightfully compensated.

Get a free case review and consultation today!