Car accidents involving bad weather in Pittsburgh can result in severe injuries and extensive damages. When inclement weather strikes, it is essential for drivers to adjust their speed and driving habits to avoid accidents. In Pennsylvania, state and federal laws mandate that drivers, especially commercial vehicles, reduce speed during adverse weather conditions to ensure safety.
If you or a loved one were injured in a crash because someone else failed to adjust their driving to account for icy or slick roads, our experienced motor vehicle accident lawyers at Bordas & Bordas are here to help you pursue justice.
Some of the most frequent collisions that occur as a result of dangerous weather conditions, such as heavy rain or ice, include:
No matter what type of wreck you or a loved one were involved in due to bad weather conditions, when someone elseâs negligence causes you harm, our dedicated Pittsburgh lawyers will help you hold them accountable.
Take pictures of the roadway and the vehicle(s) involved in the crash. Document all the physical evidence to the extent that you are able, such as whether or not there are skid marks. Collect witnesses names so that they can verify the conditions of the roadway at the time of the accident. Finally, contact a local attorney so that they could take all the necessary steps to preserve evidence.
Bad weather can impact fault based upon the actions of the driver. If a vehicle is traveling an excess rate of speed given the existing circumstancesâwhether it be rain, ice, or snowâand causes a collisionâwhether it is a rear-end, sideswipe, or a head-on crashâthe actions of that driver could be considered negligent. This is because drivers must take a greater standard of care to control and maintain proper speed of their vehicle while driving in inclement weather conditions.
If you are speeding down a roadway and lose control of your vehicle because of inclement weather, there is no negligenceâother than the negligence of yourselfâso you would not have a claim against anyone. You could make a property damage claim for any damage to your vehicle or request medical benefits under your own insurance.
However, if an unidentified vehicle caused you to lose control, resulting in a crash, then you could present a claim under your uninsured motorist coverage.
Inclement weather is not an excuse for an accident. When someone elseâs negligence causes you or a loved one to suffer harm, they are responsible for reimbursing you for all your subsequent losses. Potentially recoverable damages after a crash caused by bad weather in Pittsburgh include:
You may also be able to recover punitive damages if the other driver acted in an especially reckless or egregious manner.
First, a lawyer could schedule a consultation to speak with you about the accident and hear your story and an explanation of what happened. Then, they could gather all available information and evidence and document it before it disappears. A diligent attorney may do an inspection of the vehicles that were involved to determine potentially how fast the other vehicle that caused the crash was going. They could even download airbag modules.
A compassionate legal professional could also be a comfort for you, making sure that you are getting all necessary benefits under your own insurance, whether that’s Med-Pay or UIM benefits. They could make sure you are going to the requisite doctors and getting the treatment you need.
Finally, a proactive attorney could pursue a lawsuit on your behalf if a settlement cannot be reached in the aftermath of a bad weather car wreck in Pittsburgh.
Car accidents involving bad weather in Pittsburgh can be complicated, especially when determining fault. If negligence played a role in your crash, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Contact our seasoned legal team at Bordas & Bordas today to discuss your case and learn about your rights and options.
