Can I Sue if Winter Weather Caused My Colorado Accident?

 Posted on November 18, 2024 in Car Accident

Snow and ice arrive in Fort Collins, CO, sooner and leave later than in many other parts of the country. Long-time residents are accustomed to the driving challenges posed by winter weather, but car accidents still happen frequently.

If winter storms and driving conditions contribute to your accident, are you entitled to compensation? Who is liable for paying your damages? Your knowledgeable Larimer County lawyer from Hoggatt Law Office, P.C. can evaluate your eligibility and discuss your legal options during your free consultation.

Collisions Caused by Winter Weather Conditions

Nobody can control the weather. However, drivers who brave perilous wintry conditions can and must adapt their driving accordingly. For instance, they should:

• Drive slower and more carefully

• Use headlights

• Ensure their brakes and tires are in good condition

• Follow Colorado Department of Transportation Chain and Traction Laws for passenger vehicles

• Maintain an increased distance between vehicles

• Avoid sudden braking and maneuvers

• Ensure a clean, unobstructed windshield

Other parties also have a part to play, including, for example, maintenance companies responsible for clearing parking lots of snow and ice buildup. Although winter storms and road conditions may contribute to causing an accident, they do not absolve others of negligent behaviors.

Who Is Liable for Paying Your Compensation in a Winter Weather Accident?

Similar to accidents that occur throughout the year, an investigation should determine how and why your collision happened. The findings should point toward one or more at-fault parties. In Colorado, you can recover compensation if you are less than 50 percent at fault for your car accident. However, the amount you could receive is reduced by the degree to which you were at fault. For instance, if it is calculated that you were 20 percent responsible for your collision, the damages you receive will be 80 percent of the total amount.

Driver negligence includes:

• Speeding or driving too fast for conditions

• Knowingly driving an unsafe car

• Driving while drunk or high

• Distracted driving

• Tailgating

Drivers are not the only potentially liable parties, however. Mechanics, maintenance companies, employers, vehicle leasing companies, and others could also share responsibility. Your attorney from Hoggatt Law Office, P.C. will investigate your accident, determine fault, establish liability, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

What Compensation Is Available for Winter Car Crashes?

Accidents, injuries, and damages differ, so there is no set amount of compensation for your collision. Your lawyer will evaluate your eligible damages, which could include:

• Property damage

• Lost income

• Medical expenses

• Replacement services

• Inconvenience

• Pain and suffering

Regardless of when your accident happens, the liable insurance company will probably try to undermine your claim to reduce or avoid payment. When you choose Hoggatt Law Office, P.C., we will not let insurers take advantage of you.

Call Our Dedicated Fort Collins, CO Car Accident Lawyer

With nearly 30 years of legal experience, including over 24 in Colorado, Attorney Hoggatt is a respected member of the Fort Collins community. When you need assistance with your claim, you can trust Hoggatt Law Office, P.C.. Call us at 970-225-2190 to schedule a free consultation with our skilled Larimer County, CO personal injury attorney. Se Habla Español.