Rain, snow, ice, or fog; any of these conditions can dramatically increase the chances of a vehicle collision. Car accidents involving bad weather in Wilmington are common, especially in the winter months. However, these accidents are far more common in situations where negligent drivers operate their vehicles in an unsafe manner.
If you were injured in a bad weather crash, you may be entitled to financial compensation. A dedicated injury attorney can review how the collision occurred, identify who was at fault, and help you maximize your damages.
When Weather Contributes to a Crash
Bad weather is unavoidable, but careless or reckless driving can dramatically increase the risk of a crash. Conditions like heavy fog, rain, or snow can reduce visibility, giving motorists less time than usual to recognize and respond to changing road conditions. When drivers are distracted or traveling at a high rate of speed, they might not be able to avoid a collision in time.
Visibility issues are not the only thing that can contribute to a bad weather collision in Wilmington. Harsh weather can also impact traction, making roads slippery and difficult to navigate, particularly when snow or ice accumulates. A driver who is not adjusting their speed to these conditions is at a higher risk of causing a side impact, front-end, or rear-end collision from not being able to slow or control their vehicle when necessary.
The extent of the other driver’s negligence will ultimately determine if they are liable for a crash, or if the severe weather was entirely to blame. This can be a complex question to answer, especially without the support of legal counsel.
What Are Bad Weather Car Accident Cases Worth?
When a negligent Wilmington driver causes a collision in bad weather, they could be on the hook for a wide range of damages. This can include the physical, financial, and mental losses that stem from a serious injury. Some of the damages could include:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Diminished future earning power
- Scarring or disfigurement
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
- Property loss
An attorney can review the facts of the case and determine the types of damages that might be available.
Deadlines for Filing an Injury Lawsuit
When a person is hurt in a Wilmington bad weather car accident, they have the opportunity to file a lawsuit against the person responsible. It is important to remember that this opportunity is not without its limits due to a legal deadline known as the statute of limitations.
According to the statute of limitations, an injured motorist must file an injury lawsuit within two years of the crash. Complying with this deadline is critical. The failure to do so will usually result in the court dismissing the case with prejudice.
A dismissal with prejudice means the lawsuit not only comes to an end, but any future compensation is barred as well. While there are some limited scenarios where an injured person could have additional time, the best course of action is to move forward with an injury claim as soon as possible.
Reach out to a Wilmington Attorney About Car Accidents Involving Bad Weather
If you have been hurt in a bad weather car accident in Wilmington, it is important that you understand your rights. While no one can control the weather, a careless driver could be liable for your losses if they were primarily responsible for causing the crash. Reach out to Doroshow, Pasquale, Krawitz, & Bhaya right away to discuss your potential award during a private consultation.