Weather-Related Accidents in Fresno, CA
It does not matter if you call it poor, extreme, adverse, bad, or hazardous weather conditions, driving in rain, fog, ice, or snow can increase your risk of being involved in a traffic accident. Many people assume they can drive the same way, regardless of the road conditions. Unfortunately, if you do not take precautions, you could cause a weather-related traffic accident.
Ways you can reduce the risk of a traffic accident during poor weather conditions include:
- Slow Down — Speed limits are intended for ideal driving conditions. When the weather makes road slick, driving the speed limit can be dangerous. If you are driving during extreme or hazardous weather conditions, reduce your speed to decrease your risk of an accident.
- Increase Following Distance — Your vehicle requires additional distance to come to a complete stop when the roads are wet or slick. Increase the distance between you and the vehicle in front of you can help avoid a rear-end crash.
- Leave Earlier — If you know that the weather is going to be poor, leave earlier so that you do not feel as rushed. You will not be tempted to drive faster or drive recklessly because you are running late.
- Avoid Changing Lanes — Do not weave in and out of traffic during adverse weather conditions. Try to stay in the lane you need to be in to exit the interstate or make a turn if possible.
- Never Drink and Drive — Regardless of the weather conditions, driving while impaired is extremely dangerous and increases your risk of being involved in a traffic accident.
- Avoid Distractions — You need to remain alert so that you can avoid a collision. Because you cannot control the weather or other drivers, your attention should be focused on the task of driving instead of reading, texting, grooming, or eating.
- Buckle Up — Always secure children in child safety seats and use your seatbelt when driving. A seat belt may not help you avoid an accident, but I can reduce your risk of being injured if you are involved in an accident.
Who is at Fault for a Weather-Related Accident?
Even though the weather conditions may have contributed to the cause of the collision, it does not mean that another driver is not at fault for the crash. In many cases, the actions of a driver combined with the weather conditions cause an accident. For example, a driver who is following too closely may cause a rear-end crash because the road was wet, and the driver could not stop the vehicle in time to avoid a collision. Likewise, if a driver is speeding during heavy rain and loses control of the vehicle, that driver may also be at fault for the crash.
If a driver contributes to the cause of a collision, even during adverse weather conditions, the driver may be held liable for damages in a car accident claim. We urge you to contact our Fresno car accident attorneys to discuss the details of your weather-related traffic accident to determine if you are entitled to receive compensation for your injuries.
Call a Fresno Car Accident Attorney
Call Torem & Associates at (888) 500-5000for a free consultation with our Fresno accident attorney.
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