Car accidents are often a result of many interacting factors. Among the different factors contributing to traffic accidents, weather conditions can substantially influence the outcome. Heavy rain, fog, snow, and sunshine can all reduce the visibility. Additionally, rain, snow, and sleet can make it difficult to control the vehicle.
Georgia with its unpredictable weather, experiences a wide array of weather phenomena that can play a significant role in causing a road accident. However, regardless of the weather, drivers have the legal responsibility to exercise caution and keep themselves and passersby safe. A car accident lawyer in Atlanta can help you navigate the complexities of an auto accident claim that involves bad weather conditions.
This blog aims to delve into the intricate ways bad weather impacts your car accident claim in Atlanta.
How Liability is Decided in Bad Weather Auto Accident Claims?
Even though bad weather can make road conditions more hazardous, the negligence of drivers is not discredited. Whether the visibility is affected by weather, or the road is hard to navigate due to rain or snow, drivers still have the legal responsibility to avoid accidents. This means driving much slower, paying closer attention to other vehicles, and turning on windshield wipers and lights. With proper care, most weather-related accidents are preventable.
While weather is an uncontrollable factor, every driver has the responsibility to adjust their driving behavior for the conditions. Failing to adjust driving behavior can be considered negligence. Additionally, failing to maintain safer conditions while driving can also help establish negligence. And if the weather event is known, going out on the road can be considered unsafe.
Most bad weather crashes are avoidable. Often the negligence of drivers is the main reason for accidents involving bad weather.
What Evidence is Important in Car Accident Claims Involving Bad Weather?
In car accident claims involving bad weather, relevant evidence plays a very crucial role in proving the negligence of a driver. This evidence can include photographs of the accident scene, road conditions, and any other contributing factors, Weather reports from reputable sources can also serve as a credible source to confirm the weather conditions.
In weather-related car accidents where the fault is disputed, car accident attorneys can play a pivotal role. Their experience can provide valuable insights into navigating the aftermath of a crash.
For proving fault in a bad weather crash your attorney will have to obtain evidence. The evidence related to the crash can include:
- Eyewitness accounts of the accident
- Surveillance video
- Photographs of the crime scene, road, and vehicles
- Police reports
- Medical records
How to Do After a Weather-Related Car Accident in Georgia?
Accidents are extremely stressful events, remaining calm and taking the right steps can make the situation easier to navigate.
- The first step to take after any traffic accident is to seek medical attention, even if the injuries appear minor. This not only protects your health but also ensures that the injuries are well-documented.
- Contact the police to report the accident and provide detailed information about the crash
- Document the details by gathering information from witnesses, taking photographs, etc. Also, note the accident location, time of day, and road conditions.
- Consult with a professional car accident injury attorney who can evaluate your case, gather the evidence, and advocate for your rights.
You can file a car accident claim even if the crash occurred in bad weather conditions. The negligent party is liable for the damages regardless of weather conditions. Your case will be evaluated based on specific circumstances involving the accident. Drivers are required to exercise care and follow traffic law, irrespective of the weather conditions. If any driver fails to do so, they can be held liable for causing an accident and resulting damage.
How Insurance Coverage Changes in Auto Accidents in Bad Weather Accident Claims?
The insurance coverage usually does not change in bad weather auto accident claims. Regardless of the weather conditions, the liability insurance of the at-fault driver will cover the damages.
You can also review your insurance policy to understand the provisions related to bad weather accidents. Consulting with an experienced car accident lawyer in Atlanta can help address any concerns you may have regarding insurance coverage for bad-weather auto accident claims.
How an Attorney Can Help with Bad Weather Car Accident Claims
If you or your loved one is involved in a weather-related accident in Atlanta, and sustained damage due to another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. Consult with our experienced car accident attorney to discuss your options.
Having an experienced car accident lawyer in Atlanta on your side can be highly beneficial when dealing with complex bad-weather auto accident claims. The team at Karma Injury Law has extensive experience in dealing with similar cases.
Contact us today for a free case evaluation of your case and begin the claim process.
