Understanding Weather-Related Accident Claims in Wisconsin

Wisconsin winters can be brutal, with heavy snowfall, icy roads, and poor visibility. These conditions can make driving dangerous and lead to accidents. If you have been injured in a weather-related accident in Wisconsin, it is important to understand your legal rights and options. 

What are Weather-Related Accident Claims? 

Winter weather-related accident claims are personal injury lawsuits filed by people who have been injured in car accidents caused by weather conditions. The accidents and resulting injuries can be caused by a variety of factors including: 

  • Slippery Roads: Ice and snow can make  it difficult for drivers to control their vehicles.
  • Reduced visibility: Heavy snow, fog, and rain can impact  the ability of drivers to see other vehicles and pedestrians.
  • Black ice: A thin layer of ice that is invisible to the naked eye, black ice can be very dangerous, as it can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles.

Basis for a Winter Weather-Related Accident Claim

The  basis for filing an injury claim based on a weather-related accident relies on the ability to demonstrate another driver’s negligence contributed to the accident, even if the weather played a role. The following are some situations that may provide the basis for a claim: 

Another Driver’s Negligence: 

  • Speeding: If another driver was speeding in hazardous conditions and this excessive speed contributed to the accident.
  • Distracted Driving: If another driver was distracted while driving and this distraction contributed to the accident, you may have a claim.
  • Following Too Close: If another driver was tailgating and couldn’t stop in time to avoid a collision due to the slippery road conditions, you may have a claim.
  • Driving Under the Influence: If another driver was under the influence of alcohol or drugs, their impaired judgement and reaction time can significantly increase their liability, especially in adverse weather.
  • Failure to Maintain Vehicle: If another driver’s vehicle was not properly maintained (e.g., bald tires, faulty brakes), and this contributes to the accident, you may have a claim.

What Damages Can I Recover in a Weather-Related Claim? 

If you have been injured in a weather-related accident in Wisconsin, you may be able to recover damages for:

  • Medical expenses: This includes the cost of  treatment, rehabilitation, and any future medical care that  may  be needed. 
  • Lost wages: This includes lost  income resulting from injuries.  
  • Pain and suffering: This includes physical and emotional pain experienced as a result of injuries.  
  • Property damage: This includes the cost of repairing or replacing a  vehicle or other property that was damaged in the accident.  

Contact our Experienced Personal Injury Attorneys

At Herrling Clark, we understand the devastating impact that weather-related accidents can have on your life and the lives of your loved ones. If you or a loved one has been injured in a weather-related accident, our experienced personal injury attorneys are here to help. When your future is at stake, our personal injury attorneys are ready to step in as legal counsel and handle your case with the care and compassion you rightly deserve. Contact us today.