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Motor Vehicle Accidents

Winter Is Coming: A Look at Car Accidents Caused By Inclement Weather

September 30, 2021

When people are involved in a car accident, there is often an inclination to conclude that no one is really at fault. In other words, it was just “an accident.” This can be the case, particularly when it comes to car accidents. The reality, however, is that someone’s negligence caused the accident. Therefore, if you have been injured in a car accident in bad weather, you should discuss your case with a Billings car accident attorney as soon as possible.  

Driving Too Fast for Conditions

One of the most common causes of accidents in inclement weather is driving too fast for conditions. Wet, snow-covered, or icy roads make it difficult to stop and can significantly affect the handling of your vehicle. Therefore, drivers should reduce their speed and increase their stopping distance to avoid accidents with other drivers. 

People often think that they were driving safely by the mere fact that they were obeying the speed limit. However, Montana law requires that drivers maintain speeds that are “reasonable and proper under the conditions.” As a result, someone could be negligent even though they were obeying the speed limit if they were driving too fast for winter conditions. An experienced Billings car accident attorney will be able to determine whether the driver who caused your accident was driving too fast for the weather conditions at the time your accident occurred. 

Mechanical Failures Due to Negligent Maintenance 

Another common cause of car accidents during winter is when there is a problem with the vehicle due to negligent maintenance. For example, driving on worn-out tires can make it even more difficult to control or stop the vehicle in inclement conditions. Some other common mechanical issues that can lead to an accident in the winter include the following: 

  • Malfunctioning defroster
  • Windshield wipers that need to be replaced
  • Burned-out headlights or tail lights

Vehicle owners have a legal obligation to maintain their vehicles in good working order. When they fail to do so, they put other drivers at risk. The risks associated with negligent maintenance are compounded in winter weather. If you believe that your accident was caused by negligent maintenance of the other driver’s vehicle, a Billings car accident attorney will be able to determine whether you have a claim. 

Contact a Billings Car Accident Attorney at Ragain & Clark if You Have Been Injured

Don’t let the other driver convince you that it was “just an accident” when their negligence is the real cause of your accident. If you have been injured, you may be entitled to compensation to cover your medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses. 

With decades of experience helping injured people put their lives back together, Billings car accident attorney Jim Ragain can help you get fair compensation for your injuries. To discuss whether you have a claim and how we can help, call us at 406-651-8888 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation. We also have an office location in Montana and Wyoming.  

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