Motorists in Smithfield know all-too-well that rain, snow and ice can make driving dangerous. It seems like every year we hear of car accidents that are caused by people driving recklessly in winter weather. While the North Carolina Department of Transportation advises drivers to stay home when bad weather strikes, there are those that will still try to drive in snow and ice, leading to motor vehicle accidents.
According to the N.C. Department of Transportation, speeding is the primary cause of car accidents in winter weather. Tailgating in winter weather can also lead to an auto accident, as slippery roads can make it difficult to brake. In addition, motorists who do not come to a complete stop at an intersection could slide through the intersection, causing a car crash.
Motorists who are in a hurry to leave their house in winter weather may not clear their vehicle of snow and ice completely. This could obscure their vision, leading to a collision or snow or ice could blow off their vehicle, obscuring the vision of other drivers or adding snow and ice to an already slick roadway.
Ultimately, if you must venture out in winter weather, it is important to drive slowly, keep a greater distance between yourself and other vehicles and ensure your vehicle is free of snow and ice. Unfortunately, too many people will fail to heed this advice, and will wind up causing a car crash. When this happens, motorists who are injured in such accidents will want to determine if they can pursue a personal injury claim against the negligent driver. All motorists have a duty to drive reasonably under the circumstances. If they fail to do so and cause a car accident that injures or kills another person, the accident victim or their family may be able to pursue compensation for the harms suffered.
