South Florida may not have the snow and sleet that create risks for northern drivers, but there are plenty of ways that weather conditions impact car accident cases in Miami. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) reports that there are around 127,000 fatal and injury-causing accidents annually in which weather was listed as a factor. Compared to the total number of crashes every year, the figures translate into 49.6 percent of all collisions as being weather-related.
When you’re seeking compensation after a traffic crash, there are important implications for any case that was affected by weather. A Miami car accident lawyer can explain the following concepts in more detail.
How Rain and Flooding Affect Liability
Miami’s frequent rain and flash floods create hazardous road conditions, increasing the risk of car accidents. For instance:
· Slippery roads reduce tire traction, leading to hydroplaning and loss of control.
· Flooded streets can hide potholes and debris, making driving even more dangerous.
· The reckless acts of drivers, such as speeding in heavy rain or failing to maintain safe braking distance, are elevated harsh weather.
· Local governments may be responsible if poor drainage contributed to the accident.
Visibility Issues in Florida Auto Accidents
Dense fog and high winds are common in Florida, creating significant visibility and control challenges for drivers. Fog reduces reaction time and makes it harder to judge distances, leading to rear-end collisions. Strong winds can push vehicles off course, especially on highways and bridges.
Drivers who fail to slow down or use headlights in these conditions may be held liable for negligence. Weather-related crashes involving multiple vehicles often result in complex legal disputes requiring expert analysis.
Proving Negligence in a Weather-Related Car Accident in Miami
Weather conditions alone do not absolve drivers of responsibility in an accident. To prove negligence, victims must show that the at-fault driver failed to take reasonable precautions. This may include:
· Driving too fast for conditions
· Ignoring traffic signals obscured by fog
· Not using hazard lights in heavy rain
Witness statements, traffic camera footage, and accident reconstruction reports can help establish fault.
How a Miami Car Accident Lawyer Can Help After a Weather-Related Crash
Weather-related car accidents often involve disputed liability and insurance challenges. A Miami car accident lawyer can assess the case, collect evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies on behalf of the injured party.
Legal representation is especially crucial when multiple drivers are involved or when the city’s poor road maintenance contributed to the crash. An attorney can help victims seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages resulting from the accident.
Contact Our Miami Car Accident Attorneys to Learn More
Weather may raise questions, but a lawyer can help overcome challenges. At Gerson & Schwartz, PA, our legal team has decades of combined experience handling weather-related car accident cases across South Florida. We understand how complex liability and insurance issues can be after a crash, so we’re ready to protect your rights. If you have been injured in a weather-related accident, go online or call (305) 371-6000 to schedule a free consultation.