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Black ice forms when water on the road freezes, resulting in a thin, hard-to-see layer of ice that can cause cars to skid and crash. But can a driver who slides on black ice be liable for a crash due to weather conditions outside their control? This blog post will discuss liability in car accidents caused by black ice and how it can affect the outcome of an insurance claim or lawsuit.
Can a Driver Be at Fault for a Crash on Black Ice?
Drivers can typically be held liable for accidents they cause through their negligence. For example, if a driver was speeding or following too closely, and their car skidded out of control on black ice, they could be held liable for any injuries that result. It’s important to remember that being unaware of black ice is not a legally valid way to avoid liability. Drivers need to anticipate conditions like black ice and adjust their driving to account for the potential hazards.
How to Avoid a Black Ice Accident in NYC
Black ice is nearly transparent and difficult to detect. Drivers should use extra caution when traveling in areas where black ice is likely to form, like shady spots, bridges, overpasses, ramps, and roads with low traffic volume. Black ice typically forms overnight or in the early morning when temperatures drop below freezing and moisture on the road begins to freeze.
Given the danger of driving on black ice, here are a few tips for avoiding black ice accidents:
- Be aware of the weather forecast. Before driving, check the weather forecast and be mindful of any icy conditions that could be present on the roads.
- Reduce speed. If conditions prove to be icy, reduce your speed and increase the distance between your vehicle and the traffic in front of you.
- Watch for clues. Look for telltale signs of black ice, such as glossy pavement, patches of snow that aren’t melting, and cars driving slowly or slipping.
- Steer and brake with caution. If your car starts sliding on ice, try not to make sudden turns or stops, as this could cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
- Avoid going out if possible. Whenever possible, avoid driving on roads that may have black ice. This is especially true during periods of extreme cold weather.
Unfortunately, no amount of caution can protect you from the carelessness of other drivers. Contact an NYC car accident attorney immediately if someone else injures you in a black-ice car accident.
Contact Our New York Car Accident Law Firm Today
If another driver slid on black ice and hit you, the experienced attorneys at The Perecman Firm, P.L.L.C., want to help you pursue the compensation you may be entitled to. We understand how devastating a car accident can be, especially when someone else is responsible. Our New York car accident attorneys have recovered over half a billion dollars in settlements and verdicts for people injured by another party’s negligence. Let us put our experience to work for you.
Contact us today for a free consultation.
