Houston’s unpredictable weather can create hazardous driving conditions, increasing the likelihood of car accidents. Heavy rain, fog, and even occasional ice storms can reduce visibility, cause slippery roads, and lead to dangerous crashes. However, bad weather alone does not absolve drivers of responsibility. Determining liability in a weather-related accident depends on whether the parties took reasonable precautions.
At Hollingsworth Law Firm, our Harris County personal injury attorneys help accident victims understand their legal rights and pursue compensation when another driver’s negligence contributed to their injuries.
Common Weather Conditions That Contribute to Accidents
Even with forecasts and preparedness, certain weather conditions create hazardous driving environments that significantly increase the risk of car accidents in Houston.
Some of the most common weather-related factors that contribute to accidents include:
- Heavy Rain & Flooding – Houston is known for sudden, heavy downpours that create slick roads and reduce visibility. Flooding can also cause hydroplaning, where a vehicle loses traction on the road.
- Fog – Thick fog reduces visibility, making it difficult for drivers to see other vehicles, pedestrians, or traffic signals.
- Strong Winds – High winds can make it difficult to maintain vehicle control, especially in trucks, SUVs, and motorcycles.
- Ice & Freezing Rain – While rare, Houston occasionally experiences icy roads, leading to dangerous multi-car pileups.
Who is Liable in a Weather-Related Car Accident?
While drivers cannot control the weather, they are still responsible for adjusting their driving behavior to match road conditions. Texas law requires drivers to exercise reasonable care when operating a vehicle, meaning they must slow down and take precautions in bad weather.
Potentially liable parties in a weather-related car accident may include:
- Negligent Drivers
Speeding in heavy rain or failing to maintain a safe following distance can cause a driver to be responsible for a crash. Sudden braking or reckless lane changes in foggy conditions can also lead to collisions.
- Commercial Trucking Companies
Truck drivers must adjust their speed and braking distances in poor weather. It may be liable if a trucking company pressures a driver to meet deadlines despite dangerous road conditions.
- Government Entities
The city or state may share liability if poor road maintenance, such as inadequate drainage, contributes to an accident. Missing or obscured road signs, especially in low-visibility conditions, can also contribute to crashes.
- Vehicle Manufacturers
Faulty windshield wipers, brakes, or tires can worsen the impact of poor weather conditions, leading to manufacturer liability.
How to Prove Negligence in a Weather-Related Accident
To recover compensation, the injured party must show that another driver failed to take reasonable precautions for the weather conditions.
Evidence may include:
- Police reports detailing unsafe driving behavior.
- Traffic camera footage or dashcam video showing reckless actions.
- Witness statements from other drivers or pedestrians.
- Accident reconstruction analysis to determine how the weather and driver behavior contributed to the crash.
How Hollingsworth Law Firm Can Help
At Hollingsworth Law Firm, our Houston personal injury attorneys have extensive experience handling weather-related car accident cases. If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash caused by someone else’s negligence, call 713-637-4560 or contact us online today for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.
Our experienced lawyers and bilingual team are dedicated to representing clients throughout Texas. We handle cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we secure compensation. When you’re ready to pursue justice, we’re here to provide the support and guidance you need.
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