During the winter months, ice and snow can make roads and pavements slippery and unsafe – and if you’re injured in a road accident because of the poor weather conditions, you may be able to make a claim for compensation.
Accidents on the road caused by ice or snow are often serious and traumatic for those involved, as below-zero temperatures make driving and walking conditions treacherous. If you or a loved one have been injured as a result of an accident that wasn’t your fault, our specialist personal injury solicitors are here to support and advise you if you decide to make a compensation claim.
Ice Or Snow Accident Claims
It isn’t only drivers who suffer personal injuries in ice or snow accidents – passengers, cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians can all be affected too.
Depending on the circumstances of your accident, you may be able to claim for compensation against the person or organisation whose negligence caused your accident, including:
- The driver of the other car or vehicle
- The driver of the car you were a passenger in
- The local authority
- The Highways Agency
Ice Or Snow Accident Causes
Other Driver
If the driver of the other vehicle failed to adjust their driving to match the demands of the road and weather conditions – for example, by driving more slowly or by keeping a greater distance from the car in front – then you may have a case for making a claim for compensation which would be paid for by the other driver’s insurance company.
When the weather conditions are poor, it’s important to take extra care when driving, to help prevent an accident and personal injury.
There are naturally times when an accident happens through no fault of your own, but as a guide it makes sense to make a few checks before setting off and changes when driving in icy or snowy conditions, including:
- Drive according to the road conditions
- Remove ice and snow from all the windows
- Make sure there is no ice or snow on car lights or number plates
- Keep a greater distance from the car in front
- Drive slowly and in a high gear
Local Authority / Highways Agency
Your local authority and the Highways Agency have a duty of care to make sure the road and pavement surfaces are safe for all users – drivers, cyclists and pedestrians alike.
Reasonable measures should be taken to ensure the roads and pavements are kept clear of snow and ice, and where conditions are deemed dangerous the authorities should prioritise the main roads. There should also be warning signs in place if necessary.
If the authorities didn’t take the appropriate action or failed to follow the Highways Act 1980 and you’ve been injured in a road accident, you may be able to make a claim for compensation against them.
How We Can Help You With Your Ice Or Snow Accident Claim
If you or a loved one have suffered a personal injury in an accident caused by ice or snow on the road or pavement, you may be able to make a claim for compensation.
Our specialist solicitors will take the time to fully understand the circumstances of your accident, the seriousness of your injury and the cause, and will tailor all advice to your specific needs and situation. This includes whether you have a case to make a claim and if so, providing extensive support and guidance for the duration of the claims process to ensure the best possible outcome.
To speak to one of our specialist personal injury solicitors about your ice or snow accident, contact us on freephone – 0800 988 3674 or Chester Tel: 01244 405 399 or email advice@bartletts.co.uk
