Determining who is responsible for a Colorado car accident caused by bad weather can be difficult. A thorough analysis of the drivers’ actions is often necessary to prove fault. Bad weather does not excuse drivers’ responsibility to drive safely.
How Weather Can Contribute to AccidentsÂ
Bad weather in Colorado can contribute to road condition accidents by causing the following:
- Slippery roads: Rain, snow, sleet, and ice can create slippery roads that increase the likelihood of accidents. Black ice can be particularly difficult to spot and can cause unexpected skidding.
- Flooded roads: Strong storms can bring torrential downpour that results in the roads flooding. Tires lose traction with the road and can hydroplane, causing drivers to lose control of their vehicles.Â
- High winds: Sometimes, winds are so strong that they can push vehicles around, potentially pushing them into other vehicles.Â
- Reduced visibility: Snow, ice, heavy rain, and fog can reduce visibility, impairing a driver’s ability to see the road, vehicles in front of them, or other hazards.
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Negligence in Weather-Related Accidents
While bad weather can contribute to accidents, it does not absolve drivers of their responsibility to drive safely. Drivers can take precautions to avoid causing accidents, such as:
- Not driving in bad weather
- Slowing down
- Removing all distractions
- Changing tires proactively before bad weather comes
- Increasing following distancesÂ
- Turning on their headlights
- Using headlights and wipers effectivelyÂ
It’s important to note that speed limits are set based on optimal road and weather conditions during daylight hours. When bad weather arises, drivers should slow down and adjust their driving style accordingly.Â
Possible Liable Parties in Weather-Related AccidentsÂ
Various parties could be held legally responsible for weather-related accidents, including:
- Other drivers: Unfortunately, not all drivers take the precautions described above. They may speed, follow too closely, fail to update their tires or fix broken headlights, contributing to the accident. They could be responsible for the crash.
- You: If you acted negligently, you could be held responsible for the accident. If your degree of fault was not greater than that of the other driver, you could pursue a claim against them, but your compensation would be reduced by your degree of fault.
- God: In rare circumstances, the accident may be considered an act of God, and no fault is apportioned to a person
Financial Compensation for a Weather-Related Accident
If you were injured in an accident caused by bad weather, you may be eligible to seek compensation for your economic and non-economic damages, including the following:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacityÂ
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Anxiety, depression, and psychological damage
- Decreased quality of life
Contingency Fees
You Don't Pay Unless We Win
Contact Our Car Accident Lawyers to Begin Seeking Compensation for Your Injuries
If you were injured in an accident in which bad weather played a part, you need an experienced personal injury lawyer who understands liability in these types of incidents. The legal team at Dulin McQuinn Young can help navigate these complex issues.