Car accidents happen every day in Sacramento, California, even under the best road and weather conditions. When the weather takes a turn, it can significantly increase the odds of a collision. When weather plays a part in a crash, it can complicate getting compensation from an insurance company or a negligent party. That’s where Singleton Schreiber can help.
Our Sacramento motor vehicle accident lawyers are top-rated litigators with decades of combined experience. We help victims of weather-related car accidents in Sacramento assert their rights, stand up to powerful insurance companies, and win life-changing results in the process.
We’ve helped clients win billions in settlements and jury verdicts. Today, we stand ready to help you win big, too. Contact our Sacramento, CA, law office to arrange a time for your free case evaluation with an injury lawyer in Sacramento now.
How Often Does Weather Contribute to Car Accidents in Sacramento?
Sacramento is known for having hot, dry summers. In fact, two-thirds of the year is beautiful and sunny. However, between November and February, Sacramento has a lot of rainy days.
With rain comes the increased risk of auto accidents.
According to California crash data, 439 weather-related car accidents were reported in Sacramento in 2023.
As a result of these weather-related auto accidents, 616 people were injured and 11 were killed.
How Does Weather Contribute to Car Accidents?
When it’s raining, foggy, or stormy, it’s important for motorists to exercise extra caution at the wheel. Weather can change how drivers and vehicles operate, significantly increasing the likelihood of motor vehicle accidents.
Causing Limited Visibility
Weather can interfere with a driver’s ability to see clearly. Pouring rain, fog, snow, and other precipitation can limit a driver’s range of vision or prevent a driver from seeing out of their vehicle at all. When a driver cannot see the road and/or surrounding traffic, it’s easier to make unsafe turns, run red lights, change lanes improperly, or even drive the wrong way down the road.
Extending Braking Distances
Speed limits exist, in part, to help ensure that drivers will have an adequate amount of time to stop when there’s a change in traffic. The faster a vehicle travels, the longer it will take to come to a complete stop once the driver hits the brakes. When roads are slick due to rain or snow, stopping time and distances increase. That’s why it’s imperative for drivers to slow down and increase following distances in bad weather conditions. Drivers who speed or tailgate are more prone to rear-ending the vehicle in front of them when it’s raining.
Increasing Hydroplaning
Hydroplaning occurs when a vehicle’s tires lose contact with the road surface because of wet or rainy conditions. When a vehicle hydroplanes, it’s much more difficult for a driver to maintain control, execute turns, and brake effectively.
Who’s Liable When Bad Weather Conditions Contribute to a Car Accident in Sacramento?
California has fault-based insurance laws. However, whose insurance company is expected to pay when weather conditions contribute to a car accident?
Ultimately, drivers assume a responsibility to drive safely when they get behind the wheel. If weather conditions are poor, the motorist has to adapt to the situation and take extra care to get to their destination safely.
However, not all drivers exercise additional care when it’s raining.
Drivers who engage in the following behaviors may be liable when there’s a car accident, even if weather played a part:
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Drunk driving
- Tailgating
- Aggressive driving
- Drowsy driving
If a driver is negligent - which means that they failed to exercise an appropriate degree of care under the circumstances - they can be liable for a resulting crash. As a result, their insurance company will be on the hook for the victim’s medical bills, disability, and other accident-related damages.
The best way to determine liability for a weather-related auto accident is by conducting a thorough investigation. At Singleton Schreiber, our Sacramento car accident attorneys will gather key pieces of evidence and collaborate with experts in accident reconstruction, forensics, and property damage as we navigate your case. We’ll determine why the accident happened, identify how it could have potentially been avoided, and aggressively seek compensation from the at-fault party on your behalf.
Weather-Related Crashes Can Be Catastrophic
According to federal crash data, weather plays a part in a significant number of car accident injuries and deaths every year. In fact, about 16 percent of all fatal crashes happen in less-than-ideal weather conditions.
When an accident isn’t fatal, victims of weather-related accidents are likely to suffer very serious physical injuries, including:
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones
- Paralysis
- Nerve damage
- Brain injuries
- Amputation
- Burn injuries
- Chest injuries
- Crush injuries
- Contusions and bruising
- Soft tissue injuries
- Eye injuries
Since vehicles are more difficult to control when roads are slick, life-threatening crashes tend to happen more often.
However, don’t discount the damage that can be done in a low-impact collision when the weather is bad. Even minor crashes can cause life-changing trauma. The best course of action is to seek prompt medical care after a car accident. This way, you can be confident that your injuries are diagnosed and treated properly, as well as documented for future legal claims.
Singleton Schreiber Wants to Help You Maximize Your Financial Recover After a Weather-Related Crash in Sacramento
When you file a claim for insurance benefits or a car accident lawsuit, you’ll be able to seek compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Disability
- Lost wages
- Diminished earning capacity
- Rehabilitation
- Property damage
- Funeral expenses if a crash results in wrongful death
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of consortium
- Disfigurement
- Chronic physical pain
- PTSD
The insurance company will try to minimize your injuries, costs, and suffering. Our Sacramento car accident lawyers will be ready to fight their tactics and help you negotiate an award that accurately represents what your personal injury case is worth.
Accident victims trust Singleton Schreiber because we’re award-winning local lawyers who consistently take on powerful corporations and win top results. We’ve won over $2.5 billion for clients. Now, we’re ready to fight for you, too.
Contact our Sacramento law office today to learn more. Your first case evaluation is free.
About Car Accidents
- Car Accident Overview
- Getting a Car Accident Report in Sacramento
- Insurance Minimums
- Liability in Car Accidents
- Time Limits for Car Accident Claims in California
Car Accident Injuries
- Bruising and Contusions
- Chest Injuries
- Delayed Injuries
- Low-Impact Car Accident Injuries
- Seatbelt Injuries
Types of Car Accidents
