Winter Chain Reaction Crashes and the Law
Winter storms come and go, and if you can’t avoid driving when the weather is foul, you may find yourself at increased likelihood of being involved in a crash. Multi-car pileups happen most often during periods of icy roads or blowing snow; and this sort of crash can have unique legal considerations for the motorists involved. Here are some important points to remember.
Remain at the Scene
Although it can be tempting to escape the cold and the chaos, it’s important to remember not to leave the scene of any accident. If you can’t move your vehicle safely off the road, get yourself to a safe area. Keeping a warm blanket and an extra set of gloves in your vehicle is a good idea. Emergency responders should be able to get you out of the weather once they arrive.
Bad Weather Doesn’t Excuse Negligence
If you’re injured in a winter pileup, don’t despair. The law still holds careless motorists accountable for their negligent driving habits. If someone was driving too fast for conditions—even if they were well under the speed limit—they may be liable for damages in such a crash. The same is true if a driver was following too closely or otherwise behaving recklessly behind the wheel.
You May Be Eligible for Compensation
While it’s important never to admit fault after an accident, you may still be able to collect for your injuries even if you were partially at fault in the crash. Often in a multi-car crash, more than one driver’s negligence may have caused the wreck.
If multiple drivers are at fault, you may be able to collect some compensation even if you share responsibility for the crash. If you’re not sure, give us a call at 1-800-842-8462 and tell us your story. Don’t be a victim twice!
Now that you’re armed with a bit of useful information, go find an extra blanket to keep in your car until spring. You may never need it, but if you do, you’ll thank yourself.
