How does bad weather impact liability in a car accident?

Weather is just one of those things none of us can control. Mother Nature is responsible for weather-related adverse driving conditions, not auto insurance companies or other law-abiding motorists. As such, some car insurance policies specify that they do not pay on what they call “acts of God.” These include earthquakes, severe weather, and depending on the state, even fires. Other insurance companies allow you to pay additional premiums for special coverages. In these cases, auto accident liability comes down to the provisions of your policy.

Case studies show that if you were traveling at a lawful speed, and the visibility and road conditions were such that the other driver should have slowed down, you may have a good case. However, if the weather was extremely bad, it may have been prudent to pull over and wait for the downpour to end. The insurance adjuster will likely maintain that this would have been the best thing for you to do.

Depending on how your case is presented, the weather can either work in your favor by demonstrating your disadvantage on the road, or it may provide an excuse for the other parties involved. Because car accident liability can be somewhat complex, it is best to consult with an experienced attorney in your state about the legal merits of your claim.

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