Seattle has a rainy reputation. People often associate it with wet weather and, overall, a gloomy atmosphere. However, contrary to popular belief, the city’s almost 38 inches of yearly precipitation ranks lower than other major U.S. cities. It is only 32nd in the top metropolitan areas with the most annual precipitation. So, what sets Seattle apart is not how significant but how frequent its rainfall is. Instead of experiencing heavy downpours, it records about five months of seemingly endless drizzles, making it seem that it consistently rains all year round. Regardless of how the city earned its notorious rainy image, the unfortunate reality remains: wet road conditions can yield hazardous car crashes in the rain.
Car accidents caused by inclement weather conditions can be fatal but are also preventable. If you are a city driver or someone recently involved in a vehicular collision in the rain, it is crucial to equip yourself with helpful information on how to stay safe or handle potential motor vehicle accidents in Seattle.
Common causes of car crash in the rain
The U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) recognizes that wet weather conditions are a significant factor in crashes across the country. Rain-soaked roads can negatively impact a person’s driving, potentially leading to single car accidents due to bad weather.
The FHWA warns of increased crash risk due to reduced vehicle traction, maneuverability and visibility distance. The agency reports over 3,400 fatalities and around 357, 300 injuries from car accidents in the rain nationwide every year.
When drivers lose control, their vehicles can hydroplane or skid uncontrollably, which can make for severe or deadly outcomes. Other typical reasons for rain-induced car crashes include:
- Vehicle defect: Worn-out tires, dim headlights, or faulty brakes and windshield wipers can exacerbate dangers caused by wet roads.
- Poor road maintenance: Inadequate safety systems or protocols, such as unclear signages or unmarked detours, can have harmful consequences.
- Tailgating: Driving in the rain can affect a driver’s ability to operate the car at an appropriate speed, making rear-end collisions possible if they follow another vehicle too closely.
Once you have identified what might have caused the car crash in the rain that you have been involved in, you might wonder what you should do next. Instead of blaming yourself, try to remain calm and follow essential steps to stay safe. Ultimately, it will also be wise to retain an attorney, who can explain the nuances of the law in detail and keep you well-informed about your options as you face and overcome a life-altering ordeal.
Steps to take after a car crash in the rain
Your and your passengers’ safety must always come first. Even if no other drivers are involved, the situation can still quickly become overwhelming. However, as devastating as things are, you must ensure to observe the following steps to prevent further losses:
- Assess for potential injuries: Check if you or the other people inside the vehicle have sustained injuries. Regardless of severity, call emergency services for immediate medical assistance. Some types of physical damage do not show right away. Hence, it is still critical to see a doctor for an accurate evaluation.
- Move to a safe location: Turn on your hazard lights. If possible, stay away from traffic to avoid any more bodily or property damage.
- Call the police: Contact local authorities to report the car accident. The perspective of their report can provide additional insights that can eventually make or break your case.
- Document the scene thoroughly: Considering the road conditions, your circumstances can become complex and necessitate relevant information to support your claim. Gather as many photos, videos and witness statements as possible.
Most importantly, secure a reliable car accident lawyer. Having legal representation can help deter insurance companies from taking advantage of your vulnerability. Your attorney can guide you on your legal options as you try to process the sudden and traumatic turn of events.
Legal considerations for a car crash in the rain
Single car accidents due to bad weather mean that no other vehicle is involved in the collision. The next question then becomes, how do you determine your extent of liability if no one else could have caused the incident? At this point, things can quickly become complicated and having a personal injury lawyer becomes of utmost importance. Your lawyer can help you determine if you displayed negligent actions that can affect the negotiations with your insurance company.
In Washington State, even if you share fault, it does not automatically bar you from damage recovery. However, as a comparative fault state, the amount you can receive is reduced based on the percentage of fault you share. One of the ways you may be partially to blame is if you break traffic laws, such as running the red light or operating your car at an unsafe speed. You may also be at fault if you did not take reasonable steps to stay safe when driving in the rain, such as keeping a safe distance from other vehicles, avoiding sudden movements and maintaining the upkeep of your car.
Preparations for the next rainy day on the road
Rainy weather is part of being a Seattle resident or visitor. Unfortunately, several drivers still do not know how to safely drive in the rain. So, when the worst happens, it is crucial to be equipped with information on common causes of car crash in the rain, steps to take after it happens and legal considerations when determining liability.
You may think that you need to face this alone, but the truth is that help is available. You can speak with an Issaquah-based legal advocate during this difficult time. Their legal knowledge is an invaluable asset when negotiating with your insurance company and ensuring that you do not suffer more than you already have. No matter how simple you think your car accident insurance claim, it is still important to ensure that you have an experienced and compassionate lawyer ready to dedicate time and resources to protect your rights and interests.
