Is Bad Winter Weather to Blame for Car Wrecks?

Car accident happen every single day and for a wide range of reasons, but did you know the deadliest time of year is actually right now – winter? This may seem obvious, but winter weather is often the culprit of serious car accidents and can be blamed for some of the most devastating wrecks that occur. This happens for numerous reasons, including the unfortunate fact that many people do not know how to drive in bad weather, or do not take the necessary safety precautions when the weather is a little dicey. According to the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), an average of more than 100 people die every single day in the United States as the result of a car accident. During the winter months, this number can reach as high as 252 people per day.

Car accidents are a serious problem that is even worse during the winter, but many auto-related deaths also take place because of exposure to inclement weather when stranded. The NHTSA notes that approximately 70 percent of the nation’s roads are situated in snowy regions of the country. While Texas may not be one of them, winter storms still happen and we must be prepared for anything Mother Nature has in store. With an estimated 70 percent of all accidental deaths that take place during the winter occurring in automobiles, it is imperative we do what we can to navigate the roadways as safely as possible.

Facts About Winter Car Accidents

 In order to really drive home the role of bad weather in winter car accidents, we thought it would be helpful to go over some facts from SafeWinterRoads.org:

• Every winter, more than 116,000 Americas are injured and an additional 1,300 killed in car accidents
• Every winter, 24 percent of all weather-related car accidents take place on icy, slushy, or snowy roads
  • 15 percent of these accidents occur during a snowstorm or sleet
• Every winter, approximately 900 people are killed and an additional 76,000 are injured in car crashes during a snowstorm or sleet
• Interstate speeds are typically reduced by 3 to 13 percent in light snow or rain and 5 to 40 percent in severe weather conditions

These statistics should give you a bit of insight into car accidents during the winter months. These types of accidents take place for a wide range of reasons, including speed, distracted driving, slow reactions, driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, slippery road conditions, and poor visibility. If you or a loved one was involved in a car accident this winter and would like to learn more about your options, please contact our Dallas personal injury lawyers. We understand how devastating these types of accidents can be, especially around the holidays. Our lawyers represent victims of car wrecks throughout Dallas and are prepared to do the same for you today.