Car Accident Due to Weather

It’s estimated that bad weather contributes to roughly 21% of all car accidents.

According to recent research, roughly 5,891,000 car accidents occur annually in the US. While some of these are due to factors like driver error or mechanical problems, weather conditions are often a major contributing factor. In fact, it’s estimated that bad weather contributes to roughly 21% of all car accidents. This article will discuss some of the most common weather conditions that can lead to a car accident.

Heavy Rainfall

Heavy rainfall is one of the most common weather conditions that can lead to a car accident. According to estimates, approximately 70% of all weather-related crashes happen on wet pavement and 46% during rainfall. There are several factors that contribute to this high incident rate, including reduced visibility, decreased traction, and increased vehicle weight. Here are some general tips on how to stay safe while driving in heavy rainfall!

• Slow down. Rain makes the roads slick, which can cause your car to hydroplane. Reducing your speed can help you maintain control of your vehicle.
• Turn on your lights. Rain can make it difficult for other drivers to see, so it’s important to make yourself as visible as possible. Don’t forget to use your windshield wipers too!
•  Increase your following distance. It takes longer to stop on wet roads, so you’ll want to give yourself more space between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you.
• Avoid driving through puddles, which can cause hydroplaning. If you must drive through a puddle, do so slowly.
•  Be cautious of flooded roads. Never try to drive through floodwaters — just a few inches of water can cause your car to lose control, and deeper water can sweep your car away entirely. If you come across a flooded road, find an alternate route.

Snow

Snowy weather is another common condition that can lead to car accidents. This is concerning given that almost three-quarters of roads in the US are in regions that experience snowfall. Snow can make it difficult to see and reduce traction and braking ability. In addition, cold weather can cause ice to form on roads, making them even more slippery and dangerous.

To stay safe while driving in snowy conditions, drive slowly and allow extra space between your car and the car in front of you. Avoid sudden stops or turns, and be especially careful on bridges and overpasses, which can freeze before other parts of the road. If possible, wait until the snow has cleared before hitting the road. And finally, make sure your car is properly equipped for winter driving by installing good tires and keeping your windshield wipers in good working condition.

Dense Fog

Dense fog can be a major safety hazard for drivers. Visibility can be severely reduced, making it difficult to see other vehicles, obstacles, or even the road itself. And because fog can form quickly and unexpectedly, it can be hard to know when to expect it.

If you must drive in dense fog, slow down and use your low-beam headlights. You should also allow extra space between your vehicle and the one in front of you.

St. Louis Car Accident Attorney

Despite your best efforts, sometimes car accidents are unavoidable. If you’ve been in a car accident that wasn’t your fault, a St. Louis car accident attorney at The Hoffman Law Firm is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation.