South Carolina is no stranger to bad weather. Thunderstorms and lightning strikes are common in the Palmetto State, and both Carolinas unfortunately fall prey to hurricanes, tropical storms, hail and tornadoes. It’s an uncontrollable recipe for road disaster.
Bad weather makes for dangerous driving. According to the Federal Highway Administration, nearly 5,000 people are killed and more than 418,000 people are injured in weather-related traffic collisions every year.
Although weather is a contributing factor in many vehicle accidents, the drivers involved in them may still be found negligent depending on the facts of the case. If you were injured in a bad-weather crash, it’s a good idea to talk with an experienced South Carolina car accident attorney to learn about what types of compensation may be available to help with your medical expenses and other losses. Call or contact Stewart Law Offices right away for a free consultation.
Safety Tips for Driving in Bad Weather
It’s important to learn how to drive defensively in inclement weather. Around 11 percent of accidents in South Carolina occur when the weather is poor, according to the S.C. Department for Public Safety.
Here are some safety tips for driving in bad weather:
- Slow down on wet roads.
- Increase your following distance, as it may take longer to stop on slick or slippery surfaces.
- Use your headlights in rainy weather and at night.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Stormy conditions can make visibility scarce, so you need to scan the road to note if drivers have stopped, skidded, or crashed.
- Avoid large puddles if you can.
- Keep your windshield wipers well maintained, and use them. Also check that you have enough wiper fluid to clear any mud or debris that might disrupt your view during a storm.
- Check your tires. Balding tires will not have as much traction in bad weather, which can lead to vehicle accidents caused by hydroplaning.
- If you ever feel unsafe, pull off the road to a safe location and wait until the weather passes.
What to Do if You are Injured in a Weather-Related Car Accident
Taking certain steps after a weather-related crash can help protect any future legal claim that you might make. These include:
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible. Call 911 if the injuries are urgent. If not, you should still get checked by a doctor promptly to rule out any undetected injuries.
- Report the accident to the police. Law enforcement officers usually show up at weather-related crash scenes. If not, make sure to file an accident report.
- Exchange contact and insurance information. Make sure to obtain information from every driver involved in the wreck, as well as the names and contact information for any witnesses.
- Document the scene. Take photos of all accident-related evidence including damage to the vehicles involved, your injuries, and especially the environmental conditions. Video can help document damaging winds that may have contributed to the wreck.
- Contact Stewart Law Offices. Our tough attorneys can take over all communications with the insurance company and negotiate for a full and fair car accident settlement on your behalf.
How Can Stewart Law Offices Help Me?
Injured in a weather-related car accident in South Carolina? At Stewart Law Offices, our legal team can investigate the crash, identify all liable parties, and fight for the compensation you are owed.
Your first step is to arrange a free consultation with one of our diligent car accident lawyers. With five offices throughout South Carolina and North Carolina, an attorney from Stewart Law Offices can meet with you wherever you feel most comfortable.
Call or contact us today to get started.
