We look forward to fall leaves and winter holidays as the weather turns cooler. However, changes in the weather can often create driving hazards we do not deal with in the summer. Our Chicago personal injury attorneys at Hale & Monico discuss autumn driving hazards and how you can avoid car accidents this fall.
Seven Autumn Driving Hazards to Watch for in Chicago, IL
As the days get shorter and the temperatures fall, be sure you are aware of these seven autumn driving hazards in Chicago:
Wet Leaves
Unfortunately, the colorful leaves we enjoy during autumn can create a hazard on the road. When the leaves pile up on the road, they may hide hazards. Wet leaves can be as slick as ice, causing a driver to lose control of their vehicle.
Fading Daylight
Shorter days mean driving more at dusk, dawn, and night. Check your headlights to ensure they are in good working order. Remember to turn on headlights at dusk and dawn.
Wet Roads
Wet roads are always a driving hazard. However, when you combine wet roads with fallen leaves, the risk of hydroplaning increases.
Frost and Ice
Falling temperatures mean frost and ice in the mornings. Black ice is nearly invisible and extremely dangerous. Ensure your windows are clear of frost and remember to slow down as the mornings become colder.
Tire Pressure
Colder mornings can cause tire pressure to drop, negatively impacting traction. Monitor tire pressure closely to ensure maximum traction during the autumn months.
Sun Glare
The low angle of the setting sun can cause blinding sun glare in the late afternoon. Keep a pair of sunglasses handy. Also, keep your sun visors clear of stuff so you can flip them down quickly if needed.
Fog
Autumn can bring dense fog, which reduces visibility to dangerous levels. Reduce your speed and use fog lights to reduce the risk of collisions in foggy conditions.
Who Is Liable for a Car Accident Caused by Autumn Driving Hazards in Chicago, IL?
Illinois is a fault-based state for car accidents. The parties responsible for causing the car accident can be financially responsible for the injuries and damage caused by the crash. Even though autumn driving hazards might be factors in some car accidents, they do not excuse a driver’s negligence.
For example, if there are icy conditions or heavy rain, drivers should adjust their speed because of the dangerous conditions. If a person is driving too fast for conditions, they could be liable for causing the car accident.
The best way to determine whether you have a car accident claim is to speak with an attorney. Our lawyers will investigate the accident to determine all factors that contributed to the cause of the crash. If the driver’s negligence contributed to the car accident, they could be liable for your lost wages, medical bills, pain, suffering, and other damages.
Learn More About Chicago Car Accident Claims
If you were injured in a car accident, you could be entitled to compensation for your injuries and damages. Proving fault may be challenging if weather or road conditions are involved. Call our Chicago car accident lawyers at Hale & Monico for a free consultation. We understand these complex issues and how to deal with them in a car accident case.