Davis Law Group, P.S.

Automobile Collisions in Seattle Area Due to Icy Road Conditions | Winter Weather Accident Attorney

Who is responsible for a car accident when the road conditions are icy?

It is common knowledge that the number of motor vehicle accidents in the Seattle area increases substantially when it snows in Western Washington. Ice on roadways and snow-packed road conditions on Puget Sound highways, secondary roads, city streets and side streets can be extremely hazardous. Some winter weather accidents can be minor, with a small dent in the vehicle. Others, unfortunately, can end in serious injury or even death.

These kinds of accidents bring to mind some very important insurance and liability issues, such as:
* Is an icy or snowy road collision considered an ‘Act of God’?
* Will the other driver’s insurance cover a winter road crash?

Who is responsible for a rear-end accident on an icy road?

In Washington state every driver is charged with acting with due care depending on the conditions of the roadway. So if a driver loses control of their vehicle and causes a collision with your vehicle, such as a rear-end accident, the fact that the roads were icy and covered with snow is not a defense—they may still be responsible for the damage to your vehicle and your injuries.

Unless the ice and snow is considered unexpected or unforeseen the person who caused the accident can be held responsible. Why? Because a reasonable person would know that if it is snowing and the roads are icy they should take extra care when driving--traveling at a slower speed and at a greater following distance. A reasonable person would know that if their vehicle is not equipped to safely to drive in these conditions or if they have the kind of driving experience necessary to navigate these conditions safely they should not drive.

If you have been injured in an accident that took place on an icy road or under snowy conditions you have legal rights and you are entitled to compensation for your injuries and damage to your vehicle. Contact Davis Law Group at 206-727-4000 to get your questions answered and your legal options explained. Our injury accident attorneys can help.