Winter Driving Accidents

The winter season is usually very wet and cold in Pennsylvania. Unfortunately, driving through the snow and ice—and unfavorable weather conditions in general—can be difficult and may result in an accident. If you or someone you know was involved in a winter driving accident, you may be eligible to seek fair compensation. 

At Korey Leslie, Attorney-At-Law, LLC, we’re ready to support and represent clients in their winter driving accident cases. Our trusted Pennsylvania personal injury attorney can investigate the facts of your case, explore your options to recover damages, and help pursue the financial justice you deserve. We’re proud to serve clients across York, Lancaster, Camp Hill, and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. 

Pennsylvania is a No-Fault State  

Pennsylvania is a “choice” no-fault auto insurance state. This means that after an auto accident, your own insurance policy – PIP coverage – will help cover medical costs and any other accident-related expenses. You may be able to choose between “limited injury” and “full injury” coverage. 

In addition, vehicle owners and policyholders may be able to “opt out” of the no-fault system upon purchasing their insurance policy. Under Pennsylvania laws, the insurance carrier is required to enlighten policyholders of their coverage options whenever they want to opt out or in. 

Drivers who do not opt out of the no-fault system may still be eligible to file a claim or lawsuit against the at-fault party if: 

• Your injuries or claims exceed the no-fault benefits. 

• You suffered a serious injury, such as permanent serious disfigurement or serious impairment of body function. 

An experienced Pennsylvania car accident attorney can help you understand your possible options to recover damages and help establish liability in your case. 

Liability for Weather-Related Negligent Behavior 

As mentioned earlier, if you suffered a serious injury or your damages in the winter driving accident exceed your maximum compensation under the no-fault benefits, you may file a third-party claim or sue the at-fault party. However, this may require providing negligence and establishing liability. 

Some actions that may be regarded as negligence in a weather-related accident include: 

• Speeding 

• Reckless or careless driving 

• Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs 

• Distracted driving 

• Aggressive driving 

Unfortunately, any of these negligent actions when paired with winter driving may expose other drivers and road users to harm. The result may be a traffic crash, personal injury, vehicle damage, or death. A seasoned lawyer can educate you about car safety during the winter season and help prove negligence or establish liability in your winter driving accident case. 

Pennsylvania Car Safety Laws 

Here are some important Pennsylvania car safety laws: 

Chain Law 

According to Pennsylvania laws, tire chains may be temporarily used on vehicles during periods of snow and ice emergency if they are in conformance with regulations promulgated by the department (PennDOT). 

Minimum Tire Tread 

In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, the minimum tread depth required to pass a state inspection is 2/32 of an inch. In addition, your all-weather tires should be snow and mud rated. 

Tips for Driving in Winter Weather 

Here are some safety tips for driving during the winter season: 

• Have a qualified mechanic check your battery, brakes, belts, and hoses prior to the winter season. 

• Remove ice and snow from your car. 

• Drive carefully and slowly. 

• When driving on snow and ice, do not use cruise control. 

• Avoid passing between large trucks in a snowplow formation. 

• Always turn your headlights on while on the road. 

• Reduce your speed to the road conditions. 

• Keep an emergency kit in your car, including a snow shovel, flashlight, water, booster cables, snacks, blanket, cellphone charger, medications, and gloves. 

• Watch out for plowing and spreading trucks. 

• Beware of exit ramps, slick bridges, and overpasses. 

• Remain alert and aware of your immediate surroundings. 

If you were hurt in a weather-related accident caused by another driver’s negligence actions, you need to reach out to a skilled personal injury lawyer immediately. Your attorney can identify the responsible party and help you pursue your rightful financial compensation. 

Detailed & Diligent Legal Counsel  

A winter driving accident can be devastating and may result in personal injuries, property damages, missed time at work, or loss of life. However, you don’t have to suffer the pain and financial liability all alone. With more than ten years of extensive experience, our attorney has the diligence and resource to protect the legal rights of winter driving accident victims in their injury claims. Our dedicated attorney will fight compassionately for your best interests and strive to hold the responsible party accountable. You deserve to pursue fair financial compensation to cover medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other possible damages. 

If you or a loved one was involved in a winter driving accident, you may seek fair financial compensation. Contact Korey Leslie, Attorney-At-Law, LLC, today to schedule a simple case assessment with an experienced car accident lawyer. Our firm proudly represents accident victims and their families across York, Lancaster, Camp Hill, and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.