Weather Related Car Accidents
We’ve seen it all this year when it comes to weather: flooding, hurricanes, and even snow. Such weather can cause issues when it comes to your daily commute.
On average there are 5,748,000 vehicle crashes each year
22% are weather related resulting in nearly 6,000 deaths and 445,000 injuries per year
Majority of weather-related accidents happen on wet pavement (73%) and during rainfall (46%)
This being said, it is extremely important to exercise caution when driving through poor weather conditions, especially in Charleston, an area prone to flooding with numerous bridges and waterways.
Here are some safety tips:
Maintain your vehicle: check your tire tread, replace brakes, be sure all of your lights are working, and keep your windows and wipers clean.
Turn on your headlights, not only to increase your visibility, but also to allow others to see you.
Avoid sudden acceleration and braking.
Go slower than the actual speed limit.
Do not tailgate other drivers.
Eliminate distractions (Texting, phone calls, GPS systems, etc.)
What to do if you’ve been involved in an accident:
Remove yourself from harm and get to a safe place. Do not open your door into traffic.
Call 911. Even if nobody has been injured, it is important to have a police officer survey the scene and make a report.
If another driver is involved, exchange information including your names, phone numbers, license plate numbers, insurance information, location, and name of the responding officer.
The next step is making the decision to hire a lawyer. Some minor accidents may not call for legal assistance, however many situations, especially those involving injury, merit an attorney. If you have any questions about an accident, the Skipper Law Firm is here to help. Contact Chris at Skipper Law Firm LLC by phone at (843) 723-7177 or email at chris@skipperlawfirm.com for assistance in navigating your claim.
