Alabama’s mild winters may lull drivers into complacency, but even a light dusting of snow can turn roads treacherous. Are you ready for when winter weather strikes?

Our Huntsville car accident lawyers see firsthand how these hazardous conditions lead to crashes, injuries, and legal complications.

Discover how winter conditions in Alabama increase accident risks, get essential safety tips and understand the legal implications of winter accidents.

How Winter Weather Increases Accident Risks in Alabama

Cold weather conditions bring unique challenges, especially in Alabama, where snow and ice are uncommon. Here’s a look at how these conditions affect motorists and increase the risk of accidents:

  • Icy Roads: Even a thin layer of ice can cause vehicles to lose traction, making it difficult to steer or stop. Black ice, which is nearly invisible on the road, is dangerous because drivers may not realize it is slick until it’s too late.
  • Lack of Experience: Alabama drivers don’t get much practice driving in snow or ice, so they may not know how to adjust their driving behavior. Mistakes like braking too hard, turning sharply, or driving too fast for the conditions can result in a crash.
  • Inadequate Preparation: In states where snow is common, drivers often have winter windshield wipers and tires and know to clear snow off their vehicles. In Alabama, drivers may not take these precautions, leading to reduced visibility and poor traction when winter weather hits.

Practical Tips for Safe Driving in Winter Weather

While rare in Alabama, it’s important to be prepared and know how to drive safely when snow or ice does occur. Here are some practical tips to help reduce the risk of accidents:

  • Drive Slower: Slowing down is one of the most effective ways to stay safe in icy or snowy conditions. Speed limits are designed for ideal conditions, so driving below the speed limit is necessary when roads are slick. Give yourself extra time to react and stop.
  • Increase Following Distance: Maintain a greater distance between your car and the vehicle in front of you so you have more time to react if the other driver suddenly brakes. It takes longer to stop on icy roads, so increase your following distance by four seconds or more to prevent rear-end collisions.
  • Brake Gently: Abrupt braking can cause your tires to lose traction and your car to skid. Apply the brakes gently and slow down earlier than usual when approaching intersections or stop signs.
  • Avoid Sudden Turns: Sharp or sudden turns on icy or snowy roads can cause your vehicle to spin out. Make turns slowly and steadily to avoid losing control of the car.
  • Check Your Tires: Good tire traction is crucial in freezing temperatures. Before heading out in snow or ice, ensure your tires are correctly inflated and have adequate tread (typically 5/32 of an inch).
  • Stay Off the Road: If the weather is severe and driving is too dangerous, wait until the roads have been cleared and conditions improve before venturing out.

Legal Implications of Winter Weather Accidents

Snow and ice make driving more challenging, but it doesn’t excuse anyone from responsibility. In Alabama, you still have to adjust your driving for the weather conditions and stay safe. If you don’t and end up causing an accident, you could be held liable for any damage or injuries.

For example, if a driver is traveling too fast for icy conditions and rear-ends another vehicle, they may be considered negligent, even if the ice played a role in the crash. No matter the weather, drivers must stay in control.

Alabama follows contributory negligence, meaning if a driver is even slightly at fault, they may not receive compensation. This makes it crucial to prove that the other driver was at fault in winter weather accidents.

What To Do if You’re Involved in a Winter Weather Accident

If you’re involved in a car accident, it’s important to take the proper steps to protect your safety and legal rights:

  • Move to a Safe Location: If there are no injuries, move your vehicle to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers to prevent a secondary accident.
  • Call the Authorities: Call the police to report the accident, especially if there are injuries or major vehicle damage. In Alabama, you must report any accident involving injury, death, or property damage over $250 using Form SR-13. The police will file a report, which can help when submitting an insurance claim.
  • Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including any ice or snow on the road, vehicle damage, and any injuries. This evidence can be crucial in proving fault in an accident.
  • Exchange Information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver involved in the accident. If there are any witnesses, get their contact information, as their statements can be valuable when proving fault or clarifying what happened.
  • Contact a Lawyer: If you’ve been injured in an accident, it’s important to consult with an experienced attorney. Our car accident lawyers can help you prove fault and seek compensation for your injuries and damages.

Stay Safe, But Know Your Legal Options

Although freezing temperatures in Alabama may be rare, snow and ice increase the risk of car accidents. By taking precautions and adjusting your driving behavior, you can stay safer on the road.

However, if you’re involved in a winter-related accident, the legal team at Tyler Mann Injury Law can help. Contact us to discuss your case in a free consultation so we can help you get the compensation you deserve.