The Impact of Weather Conditions on Car Accidents in North Carolina

North Carolina weather can be unpredictable. When the weather changes, unprepared drivers can cause significant accidents. Some drivers mistakenly believe they cannot be held liable for an accident caused by weather-related events. That is not always the case. Weather conditions and other factors can affect accident rates, driver liability, and personal injury claims in ways many motorists do not expect.

Common Weather Hazards for North Carolina Drivers

North Carolina weather runs the gamut from sunshine to rain and fog, plus occasional snow and ice in winter. North Carolina also sees its fair share of extreme weather events, which can cause dangerous driving conditions.

Some of the most common hazardous weather conditions drivers in North Carolina may encounter include:

• Heavy rain
• Snow
• Sleet
• Freezing rain and ice
• Fog
• Severe thunderstorms
• Hail
• High winds

Tips for Safe Driving in Adverse Weather Conditions

No matter what the weather, there are proactive steps you can take to protect yourself and other motorists on the road. Consider the following:

• Check road and weather conditions before traveling.
• Stay home and avoid traveling during hazardous conditions.
• Slow down.
• Leave extra space between you and other motorists.
• Brake cautiously.
• Use lights and keep windows clear.
• Turn off cruise control.
• Never enter flooded roadways.
• Be patient.

It is also wise to keep an emergency kit in your car in case of severe weather or a weather-related car accident. Your kit should include supplies like water, food, blankets, or an extra jacket. It should also contain items you may need in the event of an accident or breakdown, such as a first aid kit, caution triangle or flares, and jumper cables.

How Weather Conditions Affect Driver Liability in North Carolina

Dangerous weather conditions can significantly impact roads. Car accidents due to weather conditions are common, but many people do not fully understand how liability and fault work when poor weather conditions are at play.

While many drivers blame the weather as the cause of the crash, drivers must take reasonable care to operate their vehicles safely in any conditions. Extra precautions may include reducing speed, following at an appropriate distance for the weather conditions, and using available vehicle safety features to maintain control of the vehicle.

When drivers fail to take reasonable precautions to keep themselves and others safe on North Carolina roadways, they can be liable for the injuries and damage that result from an accident they cause. For example, if a driver speeds on a wet or icy roadway and causes a collision, that driver may be liable for causing the accident because they did not adapt their driving behavior to match the weather and current road conditions.

If you are injured in a weather-related car accident, carefully document the road conditions and driving behavior of the other driver at the time of the crash.

Talk to Our Experienced North Carolina Car Accident Lawyers for Help Today

At Poisson, Poisson & Bower, PLLC, our car accident attorneys want to help you seek fair compensation following a North Carolina weather-related car accident. Contact our office today and request a free case review to learn more.