Posted in Wisconsin Workers Compensation Related News
Car Accidents
Winter weather can cause treacherous driving conditions, especially when it comes to the formation of ice on roadways. Bridges and overpasses can be especially dangerous, as cold weather usually causes them to ice over first, but what happens when you have an accident as the result of icy roads? Whether you strike an object, another car, or run off the highway, there are a few questions you might want to ask an attorney before you try to decide whether your accident was the cause of someone else’s negligence or simply an act of nature.
- Was the Road Supposed to Be Salted?
If the road you were traveling on is one maintained by your local government, then snowplows and salting machines are likely to be out after a storm. However, if the conditions were severe enough to cause multiple roads to become snowed or iced over, it may take time for the maintenance crews to clear all of them out. The condition of the road and how it is usually maintained may affect your court case.
- Was My Speed a Factor?
When roads become icy due to sleet or freezing temperatures, it is wise to reduce your speed while driving. Your insurance company will likely review the details of the accident via police reports, especially if your car left the roadway and took a great deal of damage. Generally, insurance companies and law enforcement expect drivers to exercise caution during winter driving conditions, so if it is found that you were speeding, you may not be able to file a lawsuit.
- Will My Insurance Cover Car Damages?
If you slid on ice and into another vehicle, your insurance may cover any damages caused. However, this may depend on the type of coverage you pay for and the other circumstances of the crash. Before you speak with an attorney about filing a lawsuit, it is a good idea to speak with your local insurance agent first. He or she may look into the severity of the weather conditions that day, whether the road was maintained, and the actions of the other driver.
- What If I Was Injured?
Being injured in a car accident caused by ice can be frustrating because oftentimes there is no one at fault but nature. However, you can ask your attorney if there is any way poor road maintenance or a lack of signage might have contributed to the wreck.
When snow and ice affect your driving ability and cause an accident, it can be difficult to know where to turn, but help is available. Call a car accident lawyer, like a car accident lawyer in Newark, NJ, for more information today.
Thanks to Rispoli & Borneo, P.C. for their insight into what to do if ice causes you to be in a car accident.
