Bad Weather Car Accidents in Phenix City
All drivers are required to operate their vehicles responsibly under current weather conditions. When a driver behaves negligently given the weather conditions and causes a collision, an injured party may file a civil claim for damages.
When you suffer injuries in a crash during dangerous weather conditions, you should consult an experienced auto wreck attorney at Bence Law Firm, LLC. Retaining legal counsel as soon as possible can be key to collecting the evidence needed to prove defendant fault in bad weather car accidents in Phenix City.
Types of Weather Impacting Drivers in Phenix City
Two common ways bad weather can cause accidents are by making it harder to handle the vehicle or impairing the driver’s ability to see. Drivers in Phenix City should exercise caution when encountering the following weather conditions and know how to navigate them safely:
Heavy Rain
Severe rain can cause a variety of dangerous conditions, such as hydroplaning, skidding, and slipping. To reduce the risk of accidents during heavy rain, people should drive at slower speeds and exercise greater caution, including using hazard lights to increase visibility.
Fog
Phenix City often experiences heavy fog, which significantly reduces visibility. To mitigate the risks associated with foggy conditions, drivers should maintain a reasonable speed, use hazard lights, and stay alert to potential obstacles on the road.
Snowy Conditions
Alabama does not experience much snow, increasing the likelihood of bad weather car accidents in Phenix City. This is because local drivers may not be familiar with how to navigate snowy or icy roads. In such conditions, vehicles are more likely to hydroplane, particularly with excessive water on the streets. Additionally, high speeds can increase the risk of hydroplaning and lead to wrecks like veering off the road or rolling over. To minimize risks during inclement conditions, drivers should maintain a reasonable speed—which is typically below the speed limit on most roads.
Car Accidents Commonly Caused by Inclement Weather
Bad weather results in many rear-end collisions in Phenix City. The roads become slick, and there is a risk of hydroplaning, causing drivers to misjudge stopping distances. They may not realize the severity of the weather conditions, leading to rear-ending the car in front of them.
Steps to Take After a Crash Caused by Poor Weather Conditions
When you are involved in a bad weather auto accident in Phenix City, you should immediately call the police and request them to come to the scene and investigate. It is important to get a police report as it will take into account the weather conditions on the day of the accident and assess whether it was a factor in the crash.
Additionally, use your cell phone to collect evidence, such as taking pictures and videos of the snow if it was snowing or capturing skid marks if the road was wet and caused hydroplaning. It is crucial to gather this evidence early before it is lost due to changing weather conditions.
How a Lawyer Can Help in a Bad Weather Car Accident Case
An attorney can serve as the primary point of contact between you, the insurance companies, and any other parties involved in the accident. This helps ensure that all communication is properly directed and recorded, which can prevent any missteps that may harm your case. They can also help facilitate medical treatments and handle subrogation liens with insurance companies. Additionally, a proactive lawyer like David Bence can help move the case forward to prepare for trial, if necessary.
File a Bad Weather Car Accident Claim with the Help of a Phenix City Attorney
Even if you take all necessary precautions while driving in inclement weather, you may still be involved in an accident. When another driver causes the crash due to their failure to drive safely in poor weather, you may be able to seek compensation for your losses from the negligent driver.
David Bence is a seasoned legal professional with experience seeking financial recovery for those who suffer damages in bad weather car accidents in Phenix City, and he is prepared to help with your case. Call Bence Law Firm, LLC, now to schedule an initial consultation.