Unfortunately, there is no getting around the fact that driving comes with inherent risks. You must always be on the lookout for unexpected hazards because car accidents are surprisingly common, even if you're a defensive driver. The majority of us will likely be in multiple accidents over the course of our lives, with varying degrees of severity. Most car accidents result from human error, and, to a lesser extent, faulty technology or mechanical issues are responsible for collisions. However, weather can either be a causing or contributing factor in many auto accidents.
We're going to take a look at weather-related car accident statistics and how crashes are either caused or made worse by weather conditions. Since fault is a crucial aspect in many car accident claims, we'll also look at your legal options when weather conditions are a consideration for your car accident.
Morgan and Morgan invite you to reach out today for a free case evaluation if you have been involved in a car accident through no fault of your own. While you may feel that your choices are limited, you have rights that deserve to be explored, and we may still be able to help you win compensation. With offices across the nation, our attorneys have successfully handled thousands of car accident cases involving poor weather.
Weather-Related Motor Vehicle Accidents Surpass the Dangers of Weather Disasters
When we learn of a tornado touching down in the Midwest or a hurricane battering coastal cities, we always think that the weather event is the most destructive aspect. However, weather-related car accident statistics reveal that driving in bad weather is the most deadly of all, with the number of fatalities surpassing those caused by hurricanes, flooding, and tornadoes. In an average year, the United States has about 5.8 million car accidents, with more than 1.2 million involving bad weather.
Late fall through early spring is the most hazardous because of the likelihood of encountering rain, ice, snow, and fog. However, weather hazards exist all year long. For example, the monsoon season in the southwest occurs during the hottest months. Motorists can quickly find themselves enveloped in blinding dust storms, torrential rains causing flash floods, and high winds.
Between 2007 and 2016, the United States Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT) reported an average of 5,376 deaths per year on the nation's roadways. In comparison, the number of annual deaths caused by hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, lightning strikes, and heat averages about 379. Surprisingly, heat is the most deadly weather-related factor.
When it comes to automobile accidents, however, wet pavement and rain are the top factors, followed by winter conditions and fog. Since rain occurs year-round, it's no shock that it would be the most dangerous element, racking up the most significance on the list.