Winter Weather Car Accidents In Maryland: Who’s At Fault When Roads Are Icy?
Winter in Maryland brings more than just cold weather. It brings slippery roads, poor visibility, and a sharp rise in crashes. While drivers can’t control the weather, they can control how they respond to it.
When a car accident in Maryland happens on icy roads, it’s easy for at-fault drivers to blame the conditions. However, under state law, bad weather doesn’t excuse negligence. Our experienced Maryland car accident attorneys explain common causes of winter crashes, the role negligence plays, and what you should do if you’re injured.
How Winter Weather Car Accidents in Maryland Happen
The Maryland State Police reports that over 100,000 car accidents occur throughout our area annually. Winter is one of the most common times of year for them to happen, as drivers face unique winter hazards, especially along major routes like I-95, I-70, and Route 40.
While ice, snow, and other adverse conditions increase the crash risks, reckless and negligent drivers are typically to blame. Common types of negligent driving behavior that increase the risk of winter car accidents in Maryland include:
- Speeding or driving too fast for conditions.
- Tailgating or failing to leave enough stopping distance.
- Distracted or drowsy driving during longer winter commutes.
- Sudden braking or oversteering on slick surfaces.
- Failure to clear snow or ice from windshields, mirrors, or roofs.
- Ignoring weather advisories or icy bridge warnings.
Even if another driver loses control on ice, they can still be found negligent if they were driving recklessly for the conditions.
Proving the Other Driver Was At Fault and Protecting Your Rights After a Maryland Crash
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reports that in nearly 15 percent of all crashes that happen throughout the country, adverse weather is a contributing factor. Reduced tire traction, low visibility, increased risk of glare, and skidding make speeding, tailgating, and other reckless driving behaviors particularly dangerous.
In Maryland, fault plays a major role in car accident claims. Courts in Maryland follow the legal theory of contributory negligence, meaning you could lose your right to compensation if the insurance company claims you were even one percent at fault. To protect yourself and your ability to get compensation in a claim after a winter crash, we recommend the following:
- Call the police and request an official report.
- Collect evidence, such as photos of the scene and weather conditions.
- Get contact information for all involved drivers and witnesses.
- Get medical care, even if injuries appear minor.
- Avoid admitting fault or discussing the weather as the cause.
Contact our experienced Maryland car accident attorneys prior to speaking with insurers. We can help you gather evidence to prove that the other driver’s negligence, and not the weather, caused your injuries.
Contact Our Maryland Car Accident Attorneys Today
At Berman Sobin Gross LLP, we know how quickly a simple drive can turn dangerous in winter weather. Our experienced Maryland car accident attorneys hold negligent drivers accountable and fight to get the compensation you need for your losses. To schedule a consultation, call or contact us online today.
Sources:
mdsp.maryland.gov/Pages/Dashboards/CrashDataDownload.aspx
ops.fhwa.dot.gov/weather/roadimpact.htm
dls.maryland.gov/pubs/prod/CourtCrimCivil/Negligence-Systems.pdf
