Here in Texas, we have experienced a crazy amount of winter weather recently. From Amarillo to Dallas to Houston and San Antonio, the roads have been covered with ice and snow. With these conditions, car, motorcycle and 18-wheeler accidents can and do happen. The recent tragedy in Fort Worth reminds us all of how dangerous these conditions can be. When these crashes happen, who is at fault?
DETERMINING LIABILITY IN WINTER WEATHER
When snow or ice plays a role, insurance companies review the facts just like in any other accident. While a car may “accidentally” skid through an intersection on ice or snow, it does not mean that car is not at fault.
Most people would agree that it is your responsibility to keep control of your vehicle, even on bad roads. While drivers cannot control the weather or the condition of the roadways, they can take preventive actions that would reduce the risk of an accident. Things like speed, evasive maneuvers, and braking will always be considered in determining fault. While road conditions are always a factor, rarely are they the sole cause of a crash.
WINTER WEATHER DRIVING TIPS
Check your tires for inflation and tread
Do not use cruise control when driving on any slippery surface, such as on ice and snow.
Stay home if possible.
Drive slowly and adjust for lower traction.
Accelerate and decelerate slowly and try to avoid spinning your tires or skidding.
Increase your following distance to five to six seconds.
Don’t stop if can avoid it. If you can slow down enough to keep rolling until a traffic light changes, do it.
Don’t power up or stop on hills.
