Cold Weather Car Accidents
Car accidents typically increase during the cold weather months around Nashville and throughout Tennessee. There are many contributing causes to cold weather accidents, and drivers are obligated to take these conditions into account when they get behind the wheel. If you or a loved one has been injured in a cold weather accident, the experienced Nashville personal injury attorneys at Mitch Grissim & Associates are here to help. Call or contact our office today to learn more with a free consultation.
Poor Road Conditions
Poor road conditions contribute to many cold weather car accidents in Nashville. Sleet, snow, and ice make the roadways slippery, which in turn can cause hydroplaning, skidding, and accidents where the driver has little control over their vehicle. The cold can also expand the pavement, causing cracks and other issues that increase the poor quality of the road conditions in the winter.
Inclement Weather Conditions
Inclement weather conditions also lead to many accidents in the winter months around Nashville. Snow and sleet can make it difficult to see, especially if the snow is blowing or the precipitation is heavy while on the road. It can make it difficult to see the lights of the vehicle in front, and make it more difficult for vehicles behind to see your car. These conditions can also lead drivers to accidentally drive off the road or strike objects they cannot see.
Vehicle Malfunction
The cold temperatures also cause vehicle malfunctions that lead to accidents on the roadway. Improper vehicle maintenance and a lack of needed repairs can lead to parts breaking in the cold, brake failure on slippery streets, burnt bulbs that make it difficult to see a car’s headlights or taillights in snow, and other malfunctions that can lead to an accident in the cold weather. Drivers have an obligation to keep their vehicles in good working order during the cold winter months and are responsible if any accidents happen as a result of their negligence.
Driver Negligence
Finally, driver negligence is one of the main causes of car accidents in cold weather. Many drivers assume that they can operate a vehicle in the same way that they would during any other time of the year; however, driving in cold and inclement weather requires more defensive and careful driving. When cold weather accidents occur, oftentimes drivers are cited for driving too fast for conditions, reckless driving, driving distracted, and other negligent behaviors behind the wheel. Regardless of the cause of the cold weather accident, an experienced personal injury attorney can help identify the responsible parties and hold them accountable for the crash.
Talk to Our Office Today
Cold weather conditions do not excuse a driver from liability if they cause a car accident. Have you or someone you know been involved in a cold weather car accident in the Nashville area? If so, call or contact the office at Mitch Grissim & Associates today to schedule a free consultation of your personal injury claims.
