On January 12, 2024, The Kansas Star City reported that freezing drizzle, snow, and extremely cold temperatures were hitting the region. The nearby playoff game between the Chiefs and Dolphins was one of the coldest NFL games ever played. With such bad weather in the region, it is a good time to remember the rules, regulations, and practices for winter driving. Here, our Kansas City auto accident lawyer highlights the key things to know about liability for a winter weather crash.
Winter Weather Dramatically Increases the Risk of a Crash
Winter brings not only snow and ice but also a significant increase in driving risks. When the temperature drops, roads can become slippery, making it hard for vehicles to grip the road properly. It is all the worse when it snows. The data is clear: Winter weather is hazardous.
Poor Weather Does Not Absolve a Driver’s Duty to Operate their Motor Vehicle Safely
Who is responsible for a winter weather car accident? It depends on many different factors. A thorough investigation is a must. That being said, bad weather is not an excuse for car accidents. As a driver, you are always responsible for handling your vehicle safely—no matter the weather conditions. Motorists in Kansas City must adjust their driving habits to suit the road conditions. If the weather is really bad, they may need to stay off the road entirely. A driver who skids on ice in Kansas City and strikes another vehicle can still be held legally responsible for the crash.
Four Winter Weather Driving Safety Tips
Safe driving in winter is possible. It requires a more cautious, attentive approach. Here are four of the best safety tips for winter weather driving in Missouri and Kansas:
- Avoid It: The best way to stay safe in bad winter weather is to avoid driving in it altogether. If you can stay home during a snowstorm or icy conditions, do it.
- Slow Down: When you have to drive in winter conditions, reduce your speed. Slower speeds give you more time to react if something goes wrong.
- Leave More Distance: Keep more space than usual between you and the car in front of you. This extra distance gives you more time to stop safely. Tripling your distance in snowy or icy conditions is a good starting point.
- Brake Less in Snow/Ice: Driving safely on snow/ice takes some experience. A key thing to remember is that you want to be easy on the brakes. Go slow so that you can stay off of your brakes. If you need to use your brakes, apply them as gently and slowly as you can.
Schedule a Free Case Review With a Top Kansas City Auto Accident Attorney Today
At House Law LLC, our Kansas City car crash attorney fights aggressively for the rights of injured victims. Hurt in a motor vehicle collision in wintery weather? We are here to help. Contact our law firm right away for your no-cost, no-strings-attached initial case review. With a law office in Kansas City, we handle winter weather crash cases in Missouri and Kansas.
Tags: brain injury, personal injury, traumatic brain injury
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