Even though accidents are inevitable, it is best to take precautionary measures to avoid them at all costs.
However, bad weather, such as heavy downpours, can cause immeasurable issues when driving on the highway. The authorities can hold you liable for reckless driving even if your accident results from rain. Fortunately, a personal injury lawyer can help you know if you are responsible for any damages.
What you need to know about hydroplaning
Any rain, even a short drizzle, can make the roads wet and slippery. Hydroplaning occurs when your car tires lose their grip on the road (because of rainfall), subsequently causing the vehicle to slide and lose control.
Hydroplaning reduces your ability to steer and brake, increasing the likelihood of causing an accident. A personal injury lawyer can investigate the accident to determine who is accountable for your loss in such situations.
You might be eligible for compensation and damages if a driver fails to adjust the speed of their car when driving in unfavorable weather.
Possible car liabilities
Despite the bad weather and its effects, drivers must take care when on the road. A driver might still be responsible for damages if an accident happens in the rain. Here is a list of causes that can make a driver liable:
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Speeding
- Disobeying traffic rules
- Drowsy driving
- Not keeping a safe distance between two cars
- Failing to turn on the headlights in the rain
- Failure to inspect the car regularly
- Not handling a hydroplaning incident
Having an auto attorney by your side can help you discern the various liabilities and handle the situation accordingly.
Accident causes not related to the rain
There is a clear distinction between car accident damages and product-related damages. Despite the rain, not all accidents occur because of unfavorable weather. Your car (product) might have issues that might lead to accidents, causing loss, harm, and injury.
Here is a list of product-related liabilities not related to the rain:
Faulty tires
If your tires are flat or worn out, they will lose their grip on the road’s surface whether it is raining or not. Faulty tires increase the risk of accidents regardless of the weather. If your tires are balding, consider replacing them immediately to free yourself from liability in case of an accident.
Faulty windshield wipers
A faulty wiper system is another product-related liability that can lead to an auto accident during bad weather. If you have functioning windshield wipers, unclear vision caused by rain cannot be your defense in court. Car wipers are there for a good reason to ensure you have a clear sight when driving in the rain.
Defective brakes
The function of a braking system is to stop the vehicle in any instance, including slippery conditions caused by rain. Therefore, if the brakes are defective, the likelihood of a car accident occurring rises sharply. In any case, you won’t stop your car when you need to if your car brakes are not working.
Malfunctioning accident prevention system
Modern vehicles come equipped with accident prevention systems that warn the driver of impending danger. For example, your car can alert you if you approach a vehicle ahead too quickly. They also have backup cameras, automatic emergency braking, and a lane-keeping system to prevent potential accidents. If this prevention system malfunctions, you are likely to cause an accident.
Conclusion
If you are a victim of an accident caused by rain, consider enlisting a personal injury lawyer to handle your case. The attorney will prove to the court that you are eligible for compensation for damages and injuries. Ensure your car is in good working condition to absolve yourself from liability.
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