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Why Bad Winter Weather Isn't An Excuse For Poor Driving

1 February 2021 by Louise Boyd

Driving through snow can be very difficult, so drivers who are trying to drive through snow might find themselves involved in accidents unexpectedly. While driving through snow is more difficult than driving in good weather, poor weather is never an excuse for poor driving. However, you may need help from a motor vehicle accident attorney to make sure that you are able to prove negligence.

Challenges of Driving Through Heavy Snow

As the snow melts, the roads can become very slick and it can be difficult to maintain traction. But even before this happens, you may find it very difficult to drive through the snow. Fog and snow can make it very difficult to see. As a result, drivers need to be more cautious when driving through adverse weather, especially after receiving a winter advisory warning. 

If another driver crashes into your vehicle because they couldn't see you due to the snowy weather, the driver should have slowed down and possibly even pulled over to the side of the road until the snowy conditions improved. Therefore, the driver will still often be considered negligent if they violated traffic laws and collided with your vehicle. 

How to Counter the "Bad Weather" Defense

Motor vehicle accident attorneys are accustomed to drivers using the "bad weather" defense and will make sure to clarify that drivers are expected to drive carefully regardless of how good or bad the weather is. They will then help you create a settlement offer that will cover the cost of damage done to your vehicle and any other expenses.

If the defense believes that they can win their case in court, they might opt for a jury trial. Then, your motor vehicle accident attorney will be able to argue why the other driver should be held responsible for the accident.

Why Accidents During Winter Can Often Be Worse

If you are involved in an accident during the winter, it may take longer for emergency services to reach you. As a result, you might not receive the medical treatment that you need. For example, you might have a severe head injury or you may be suffering from internal bleeding. 

If you are unable to contact emergency services because of your injuries, the cold weather might also lead to you suffering from hypothermia and frostbite. Therefore, you will need to work with a committed motor vehicle accident attorney who will fight for the compensation you deserve. 

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