The weather here in Houston has been fluctuating substantially over the past few years, so Houston residents don’t always know what to expect when it comes to predicting weather patterns. When adverse weather conditions are present, stay indoors until the inclement weather passes. Otherwise, if you do have to drive through bad weather, you’ll want to be extra careful and vigilant. Car accidents in bad weather can be severe and complicated in terms of injuries and liability, respectively. Learn more about bad weather car accidents and your legal options below.
Recent Thunderstorms in Houston
There were severe thunderstorms reported in the Houston area this week. These weather events increase the chances of flooding on roadways. If you’re ever driving during a storm and notice that water is covering the road, it’s always best to turn around and find an alternate route. Water levels can look deceiving and may rise rapidly.
Otherwise, rain alone can increase the chances of a car accident in bad weather because it impacts your vehicle’s traction, visibility, and other drivers’ behavior. These combined factors effectively reduce your reaction time and increase the likelihood of losing control of your vehicle. For these reasons, motorists should travel at slower speeds during rainy weather to mitigate the risks of wet pavement and limited visibility while driving.
Can a Car Accident in Bad Weather Lead to a Personal Injury Claim?
If a car accident in bad weather was caused by another driver’s negligent behavior, you have the right to bring a personal injury claim for your injuries. Motorists are expected to act “reasonably” to avoid foreseeable accidents. The standard for reasonability changes depending on the road conditions, meaning what is considered reasonable driving during sunny, clear skies might be considered unreasonable during a rainstorm.
A driver who fails to adjust their driving behavior to the dangerous road conditions brought on by a thunderstorm could face liability if they cause an otherwise avoidable accident as a result. Speeding, tailgating, driving without headlights on, and more can constitute negligence during inclement weather.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Bad Weather
If you suffer injuries in a car accident in bad weather in Houston, be sure to contact law enforcement at the scene, if possible. The police will write a report about the accident, including the current weather conditions. Other evidence such as dash cam footage, nearby surveillance footage, eyewitness testimony, and more may be available to help prove your claims. It is also advisable to take a screenshot of the current forecast in your phone’s weather app.
If you were injured in an accident in Houston or the surrounding area during the recently reported thunderstorms or other inclement weather, we’d like to hear from you. Schedule a case evaluation with our firm now to learn more about your legal rights and options after a bad-weather car accident.
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