Liability Regarding Snow and Ice-Related Car Accidents

Slippery road surfaces and poor visibility during snow and ice conditions can lead to serious and sometimes fatal car accidents. Many people believe that a car accident caused by ice and snow is a no-fault situation, but this is not the case. In many snow and ice-related car accidents, the driver that slides into another vehicle is liable for the accident.

Negligence in Snow and Ice Conditions

Every driver has a legal responsibility to operate their vehicle in a safe manner.  Following local speed limits, obeying traffic signs and signals, driving within designated lanes and areas, and not following another vehicle too closely are all examples of responsible driving habits. When a driver chooses to operate a vehicle in snow and ice conditions, it is the driver’s responsibility to practice safe driving habits to avoid colliding with another car.

How to Avoid a Car Accident When Driving in Ice and Snow

A winter storm that brings ice and snow can happen without warning, leaving drivers at risk for a car accident. In most cases, snowstorms and ice conditions can be predicted, leaving drivers with an option to adjust their schedules to avoid driving in the adverse conditions, or to prepare their vehicle and themselves to travel safely in the inclement weather. Safety tips for driving in dangerous ice and snow conditions include:

• Clearing accumulated snow from roofs and windows before heading out
• Slowing down, even if it means driving below the local speed limit
• Using headlights at all times
• Leaving ample space between your car and the car in front to avoid rear-end collisions
• When possible, drive in the far-right lane to avoid colliding head-on with another vehicle if you start to lose control on the ice
• Be extra vigilant when traveling in areas prone to ice, such as bridges and shaded areas
• If your car starts to swerve or slide, remove your foot from the gas pedal and steer into the direction of the slide until you regain control of the vehicle
• Be sure to use turn signals and beware of blind spots when making turns or switching lanes
• Take turns slowly, ensuring that your car is in control as you change direction
• Use flashing hazard lights when necessary to make other drivers aware of your presence when visibility is low
• If it is safe to do so, pull over when storm conditions reduce visibility

As in all weather and driving conditions, prevention is the key to avoiding a serious or fatal car accident.

Philadelphia Personal Injury Lawyers at Galfand Berger LLP Represent Victims Injured in Car Accidents

If you or a loved one was injured in a snow and ice-related car accident, contact the Philadelphia car accident lawyers at Galfand Berger LLP today. We will fight for the compensation you rightfully deserve for your injuries. Call us at 800-222-8792 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation today. Located in Philadelphia, Bethlehem, Lancaster, and Reading, Pennsylvania, we serve clients throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey.