SKIP TO CONTENTAttorney Bryan Garrett explains a common winter driving misconception: that icy or snowy roads excuse a driver’s liability in a car accident. In reality, every driver has a legal obligation to adjust their driving based on weather and road conditions. That means speeding, tailgating, or losing control—even in ice or snow—can still make a driver legally responsible for a crash.
Whether it’s your first time driving on ice or you’re caught off guard by a sudden snowstorm, the law doesn’t offer leniency for inexperience or poor judgment. If a driver fails to slow down, leaves too little space, or doesn’t understand how weather affects stopping distance, they can—and often are—held liable for the resulting damage and injuries. In fact, as shared in the video, a past case involved a driver who had never driven on ice before and admitted to not realizing how much longer it would take to stop. She was still found at fault.
If you’ve been hurt in an icy road accident, it’s crucial to document everything, get medical care, and contact a lawyer as soon as possible. Insurance companies often try to blame the weather, but with the right legal representation, you can hold the negligent driver accountable and recover full compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and medical bills.
Don’t let icy roads excuse reckless driving. If you’ve been injured in a snow or ice-related accident, call today for a free consultation and get the legal help you need to protect your rights and pursue fair compensation.
FAQs
Is a driver automatically not at fault if the roads were icy?
No. Drivers are still expected to operate their vehicles safely regardless of road conditions, including adjusting speed and following distance on icy roads.
Who pays for damage after a car accident on ice?
Typically, the at-fault driver’s insurance is responsible for covering property damage and injuries, even if the accident occurred in snowy or icy conditions.
Can I still receive compensation if both drivers were driving carefully in bad weather?
Possibly. Even in challenging conditions, liability is assessed based on whether each driver acted reasonably under the circumstances, and partial fault may still lead to compensation.
What should I do immediately after an icy road car accident?
Call 911, seek medical attention, take photos of the scene, and get a police report. Then, consult with a car accident attorney to protect your rights.
