While most people are aware that snowy winter weather is not the ideal time to be on the road, there is one hazard associated with winter snow which many people fail to consider. This hazard is driving with snow on the roof of your car. Most people will clean their windshields, yet fail to think about what will happen when the snow on the roof begins to melt, then flies into the windshield of the driver behind them, completely obscuring their view. So, are drivers liable for snow on their cars?
The number of serious accidents in the past few years has brought some attention to the problem, yet most people still don’t see snow on the auto roof as a real hazard. Equally serious are the large chunks of ice blowing off the car in front of you which can smash into your car, breaking your windshield and causing a serious accident. Neglecting to remove the ice and snow from your vehicle can actually be construed as negligence in the event of an accident—yet another good reason to take the extra time and clean off the roof of your car.
Negligence Charges
Failing to clear off the roof of your vehicle can indicate negligence on your part because a reasonable person is expected to know that the blowing ice and snow could potentially cause an accident and take steps to reduce that risk. Should the ice and snow blowing off your vehicle cause the car in front of you to crash, then you could be liable for the damages to the car and the injuries to the driver. By the same token, if you have been the victim of ice or snow blowing from a vehicle and causing an accident you could be entitled to compensation for your damages.
Laws Which Compel You to Clean Your Car
Five states currently have laws which require drivers to properly clear the snow and ice from their vehicle before they leave their home. Should they fail to do so they risk being pulled over by a police officer and ticketed for the offense. Fines generally start at $75 and go up from there. In fact, in Pennsylvania on Christmas day of 2005, a woman was killed when a block of ice flew from the top of the truck ahead of her into her windshield, so there is a very real threat to the safety of others.
Further Reading: Three Members of the Gold Law Firm Named as Super Lawyers
Avoiding Winter Car Accidents
Aside from cleaning the roof of your car as well as front, back and side windows, you must practice other safety habits when driving in snowy weather. First and foremost, if you don’t have to get out in the snow, stay home. Only drive in the snow when you absolutely cannot avoid it. This practice takes a fair amount of drivers off the road, minimizing the chance of an accident.
Outfit your vehicle with tire chains or snow tires before the winter begins and make sure you have plenty of windshield wiper fluid as well as wipers which are in top condition. Slow down! This is possibly the most important rule for driving in winter weather. Snow causes slips and skids that normal roadway conditions do not, plus many people are afraid to drive in the snow and panic in such situations. Watch out for black ice, which is a kind of invisible ice. You may believe you are driving on a plain asphalt surface then suddenly realize you are on a sheet of ice.
Get Legal Help
If you have been the victim of an accident caused by flying snow or ice, contact a Denver personal injury attorney as soon as possible to discuss your options. A Denver personal injury attorney will be able to evaluate your specific situation and give you the best possible scenario for reaching a settlement for your injuries and damages. Contact Gregory A. Gold of the Gold Law Firm today for a free consultation at (303) 694-4653.
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