Why Winter Car Accidents in Chicago Often Lead to Severe Injuries or Death

Every year, there are thousands of car accidents in Chicago. Many of these happen in winter due to the increased risk caused by severe weather. When accidents happen in these conditions, some people may be entitled to compensation due to other drivers’ negligence. Keep reading to learn more below.

Why is winter in Chicago more dangerous for accidents?

The winter season is known for bringing chaos and danger to roadways across America. This is especially true in Chicago, where winter weather conditions are dangerous and unpredictable. The weather conditions alone pose an increased risk, but combined with negligence, roadways can become deadly.

Some forms of negligent driving include:

• Speeding
• Distracted driving
• Tailgating
• Ignoring road signs
• Impairment

When someone is reckless in severe weather conditions, they should be held responsible for their actions. Anyone who was in a car accident during a Chicago winter is encouraged to speak to an attorney about their situation.

Common causes of winter car accidents in Chicago:

Factors that impact car accidents during Chicago winters include:

Reduced visibility

Reduced visibility due to a decrease in daylight, fog, snow, ice, or other precipitation can cause accidents on Chicago roadways. Black ice is invisible on roads but causes many accidents yearly. Reduced visibility is a big reason why drivers must take precautions in inclement weather.

Icy roadways

Ice makes roadways nearly impossible to drive on. Drivers can quickly lose control of their vehicles when Chicago roads become icy, a major factor in crashes each winter.

Dangerous driving in bad weather conditions

Some drivers are reckless in inclement weather. People who speed, drive while distracted or impaired, or are careless cause numerous accidents during the winter.

Reduced traction

Winters in Chicago come with reduced traction. Even people with snow tires may face trouble with traction in icy weather.

Large vehicles

Winter months in Chicago often mean more large vehicles. Snow plows, salt trucks, and other work vehicles are on roadways more often. Semi-trucks need more time to stop than normal-sized vehicles in normal weather. Large vehicles are more at risk of causing accidents in winter months because many drivers do not give them the space they need in severe weather conditions.

Tips for reducing accident risks in Chicago winters

There are a few ways to decrease the overall risk of an accident during Chicago winters:

Watch the speed

During severe weather, speeding is incredibly dangerous. Even reaching the speed limit in some situations can be dangerous. Drivers must assess roadways and conditions to adjust their speed accordingly.

Maintain a safe driving distance

Braking in winter conditions can be risky. Doing so too quickly can cause issues, but vehicles also need time and space to stop and move safely. This is why it’s encouraged to drive at a distance from other vehicles. This gives all vehicles the space they need to slow or stop on dangerous roads.

Avoid distractions

Distracted driving is unsafe on a good day. When inclement weather is added to the mix, distractions can become deadly. Drivers should avoid their phones, other technology, and adjusting vehicle controls when possible.

Evaluate conditions before traveling

When the weather is bad in Chicago, drivers should stay home if they can. If traveling is necessary, drivers should plan accordingly and give themselves plenty of time. Drivers in a rush during Chicago winters may cause accidents.

Chicago winter car accident FAQs:

Many people have similar questions about Chicago winter car accidents. Read about the most common ones below:

What is the deadline for winter car accident claims in Chicago?

It depends on the type of claim filed. Most personal injury claims have a two-year statute of limitations. However, when filing a claim against a local or state agency, there are other requirements and deadlines to consider. Many claims against local entities or public employees are subject to a one-year timeline. It’s encouraged that anyone worried about meeting legal deadlines speak to a Chicago lawyer about their options.

Is the City of Chicago ever liable for accidents in winter?

Sometimes, city agencies may be liable. These cases are incredibly nuanced and have strict requirements. Many agencies are protected under immunity laws, but some cases may result in government liability. However, Illinois law generally protects local public entities from liability for injuries caused by weather conditions themselves, including snow or ice on public roads. We encourage anyone navigating a claim involving a government agency to speak to an experienced lawyer in Chicago.

Are Chicago drivers required to have snow tires?

There is no specific law saying drivers have to have snow tires. This does not mean that someone wouldn’t be liable if they drove dangerously or didn’t maintain their vehicle, resulting in an accident.

What damages are available for Chicago winter car accidents?

Winters in Chicago are dangerous for drivers. Even when an accident is due to someone else’s negligence, there is no guaranteed compensation. However, the team at Gainsberg Injury and Accident Lawyers fights for their clients to receive the compensation they are entitled to. In general, damages for car accidents may include:

• Current and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and future earning capacity
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional anguish
• Wrongful-death damages (when applicable)

We encourage you to speak to an experienced Chicago lawyer if you have questions about possible compensation for your accident.

How can a Chicago winter car accident lawyer help clients?

Chicago winter car accident lawyers help clients in many ways. They not only advocate for their clients’ rights but also offer compassionate insight and advice. Lawyers help their clients to build strong cases through evidence gathering and liability determination. Many people facing Chicago winter car accident claims feel less stressed and have more peace of mind with an attorney by their side.

Contact Gainsberg Injury and Accident Lawyers for a free case review today

Navigating Chicago winter car accidents doesn’t have to be as daunting as it seems. A dedicated lawyer helps clients through the legal process with compassion and insight. At Gainsberg Injury and Accident Lawyers, we offer free case reviews to understand your specific situation. Contact us today to request your appointment and learn more about your legal options.