Who’s Responsible for a Weather-Related Car Accident?

There are many car accidents in bad weather that may be unavoidable. So, if you get into a car accident caused by slippery roads, high winds, or something else, will you still have to pay for the damages? Find out below.

Liability in Weather-Related Car Accidents

Different states in the country follow either “at fault” or “no fault” insurance laws. In “at fault” states, the driver who causes a car accident (and their insurance company) are responsible for paying for the damages from the crash. In “no fault” states, on the other hand, every driver will receive compensation from their own insurance company after a car accident, whether or not they caused the crash.

Alabama is an “at fault” insurance state, which means you must pay for any damages resulting from a car accident you cause. Similarly, you will be compensated by the other driver if they were responsible for the crash.

A weather-related car accident is unique because it may involve only one vehicle. So, how can you determine fault when no other vehicles were present?

Most of the time, any driver involved in a weather-related car accident will still be held liable for their own damages. This is because motorists are expected to drive safely in any weather condition. To that end, motorists must drive slower in the rain and allow greater following distance between vehicles. If the motorist fails to take these measures, they may be found “at fault” for a weather-related accident because they were not driving in a way that was appropriate for the conditions.

Injured in a Car Accident? We’re Here to Help

There are certain situations where another entity may be held liable for a weather-related car accident, such as one caused by hazardous roads or confusing road signs. If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident, our Mobile personal injury attorneys can help you seek justice.

Call Cunningham Bounds at (844) 417-0930 to schedule a free consultation.