What Can You Do If The Weather Is The Cause Of Your Auto Accident?
- Ross Gilders
- Feb 3
- 4 min read
It’s January in Michigan. The roads are icy, snow-covered, slushy, and visibility can change in an instant. It’s no surprise that winter weather is a contributing factor in a lot of auto accidents this time of year. However, while poor weather conditions may play a role in a crash, they do not automatically excuse a driver from responsibility.
Many drivers assume that if snow or ice caused the accident, no one can be held at fault. In reality, Michigan drivers are expected to adjust their driving behavior to match road and weather conditions. Failing to do so can leave a driver liable for injuries and damages, even when the weather is less than ideal.
If you’ve been involved in a winter weather-related car accident, understanding how fault works and what steps you should take next can make a significant difference in protecting your claim.
Weather Does Not Automatically Eliminate Fault
Michigan law expects drivers to take reasonable precautions during hazardous weather. This includes, but is not limited to, slowing down, increasing following distance, and using headlights when needed.
If a driver fails to slow down on an icy road, takes a turn too fast, follows too closely, or cannot stop within an assured clear distance, they may still be held liable for an accident, even if the crash may not have occurred in better conditions. Weather-related accidents require a careful legal analysis of the facts.
Winter Weather Accident Statistics in Michigan
According to Michigan Traffic Crash Facts, there were 22,713 auto accidents during the 2023-2024 winter season where the roadway was reported to have been icy, snowy, or slushy. Of those accidents, 36 were fatal. These numbers show just how dangerous winter driving conditions can be and how common weather-related crashes truly are.
This report also notes that the most frequent hazardous driving actions contributing to these crashes were speeding and an inability to stop within an assured clear distance. These behaviors are dangerous in any circumstance, but when combined with winter conditions, they significantly increase the likelihood of serious accidents and injuries.
Common Causes of Auto Accidents in Winter Conditions
While snow and ice create dangerous driving conditions on their own, many winter accidents are ultimately caused by driver behavior. Some of the most common contributing factors include:
Speeding for Conditions
Even driving at or below the posted speed limit can be considered speeding if weather conditions make the road unsafe. On icy or snow-covered roads, vehicles need much more time and distance to slow down or stop. Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the likelihood of a collision.
Failure to Stop in Assured Clear Distance
Michigan law requires drivers to maintain enough distance to stop safely under existing conditions. On icy roads, brakes and tires must work overtime. If a driver brakes suddenly or follows too closely, they may lose control or rear-end another vehicle.
Loss of Control and Spin-Outs
Overcorrecting, accelerating too quickly, or braking too hard on slick roads can cause vehicles to spin out. These accidents often result in multi-vehicle collisions, especially on highways and busy intersections.
Reduced Visibility
Snowfall, blowing snow from the hood of your vehicle, fog, and early winter darkness all limit visibility. Drivers who fail to use headlights, windshield defrosters, or slow down accordingly may be held responsible if they cause an accident.
Poor Vehicle Maintenance
Worn tires, faulty brakes, and inadequate windshield wipers significantly increase accident risk in winter weather. Drivers are responsible for ensuring their vehicles are safe to operate, even in adverse conditions.
How Comparative Negligence Works in Michigan
Michigan follows a comparative negligence system, wherein more than one party can share fault for an accident. In weather-related crashes, this often becomes a key issue.
For example, one driver may have been following too closely, while another may have stopped suddenly without proper warning. Each party’s actions are evaluated, and fault is assigned as a percentage.
If you are injured in an accident and found to be more than 50% at fault, you may be barred from recovering non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. However, if you are 50% or less at fault, you may still be entitled to compensation, though your recovery may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Because fault determinations can be complex, especially when weather is involved, it is important to have an experienced attorney evaluate the facts of the claim.
Safe Driving Tips to Reduce Winter Accident Risk
While not all accidents are preventable, following basic winter driving safety tips can reduce your risk. We did a full blog on this topic, but for a quick recap:
Slow down and allow extra travel time,
Increase following distance,
Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns,
Keep headlights on during low visibility,
Ensure tires, brakes, and wipers are in good condition,
Avoid using cruise control on icy or snowy roads
Stay alert for black ice, especially on bridges and overpasses.
How an Attorney Can Help After a Winter Accident
Weather-related accidents are rarely as simple as they seem. Insurance companies often attempt to blame weather alone to minimize payouts, even when driver negligence played a significant role.
An experienced personal injury attorney can investigate the accident, review police reports, hire an accident reconstructionist if necessary, and determine whether another driver failed to take reasonable precautions. This can be critical in securing compensation for your pain and suffering.
Conclusion
If you were involved in an auto accident where inclement weather was a factor, you may still have legal options. Weather alone does not excuse negligent driving, and you should not assume you are without a claim.
If you have questions about a winter weather-related accident, call our office at (855) 529-6424. Having an experienced attorney review the facts of your case can help determine the proper avenues for recovery. We have extensive experience handling these types of claims and are prepared to provide you with exceptional representation when you need it most.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique, and results depend on the specific facts and circumstances. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. If you have been injured, please contact a licensed attorney to discuss your specific situation.
