Inclement weather is a common occurrence in Cook County, frequently ruining everything from picnics to parades in the area. The effects of inclement weather can also be more insidious, though, with the potential to turn any traffic situation into an accident scene.
Of course, no one can reasonably be blamed for inclement weather. Nonetheless, Stein & Shulman, LLC helps accident victims in Cook County hold negligent drivers accountable for accidents they cause during such conditions.
If you or someone you care about has been injured in an inclement weather accident, don’t hesitate to call on our experienced Cook County inclement weather attorneys for representation. We will identify every dollar of compensation you are owed and aggressively pursue your payout. Give Stein & Shulman, LLC a call to learn how we can help.
Inclement Weather in Illinois
Illinois is a diverse weather state, which means it can see all types of weather patterns and conditions. Typically, inclement weather refers to severe conditions caused by one or more of the following types of weather patterns:
- Snow
- Hail
- Fog
- Rain
- Wind
- Freezing and icy conditions
Although common, these weather patterns can reach levels of severity that cripple traffic and turn safe roadways into danger zones riddled with hazards.
Limited Visibility
Limited visibility results from many types of inclement weather, from snow storms to sheets of rain. When a motorist’s vision is limited, they can no longer properly perceive dangers or make out traffic signs and signals properly. The result is an exponentially increased risk of an accident.
Fires also frequently lead to situations of limited visibility. Smoke can settle onto long roadways and even become trapped in pockets or in large swaths along the highway or city streets.
Traction Issues
Cars and trucks rely heavily on properly functioning tires and brakes when on the road. However, certain inclement weather conditions can render perfectly functioning brakes nearly useless.
For instance, ice, snow, and rain all have the power to transform a perfectly safe, dry highway into a slippery, hazardous route. This results in cars piling up, spinning out of control, and hydroplaning.
Tipping Concerns
High winds can cause significant and severe inclement weather that particularly threatens vehicles with high centers of gravity, such as semis, pickups, and even SUVs. Strong winds can topple these vehicles in one gust. When combined with other dangerous weather patterns, high winds can quickly lead to deadly accidents.
Liability and Inclement Weather
If inclement weather is in play, motorists must adjust their driving behavior to match current road conditions. In other words, inclement weather conditions redefine what safe driving means.
For example, with significantly reduced visibility, a street with a 40 mph speed limit might only be safe to drive on at 20 mph or less. So if a motorist travels at or below the posted speed limit but above a speed that is safe for the reduced visibility conditions, they can potentially be held liable for accidents they cause.
Your traffic accident attorney will thoroughly investigate your inclement weather accident and gather the necessary evidence for your damages claim, including:
- Traffic cam footage
- Witness testimony
- Police accident reports
With an attorney on your side during this confusing time, you won’t have to worry about any aspect of your case. They will take care of everything.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Inclement Weather Accidents in Illinois?
In Illinois, accident victims involved in an inclement weather accident have two years to seek compensation for the compensable losses they have suffered. There is, however, a notable exception for minor victims. Minors are not subject to the statute of limitations until turning 18 years of age, at which time they have two years to take action.
The damages you may be entitled to can go a long way toward providing you compensation and relief from your losses. However, delaying can lead to significant legal problems.
In addition to your claim expiring, putting off filing may potentially cause your case to suffer from evidence issues. Proof from sources such as traffic cam footage and witness testimony gets deleted or grows unreliable over time. The sooner you take action for compensation, the stronger your case will typically be.
Compensation for Inclement Weather Accidents
Compensation for accidents caused by inclement weather is available principally through insurance. The at-fault party’s liability insurance should cover some or all of the various losses an accident victim suffers.
Damages available in an inclement weather accident include compensation for:
- The costs of treating accident injuries, including medication and rehab
- Lost income and wages
- Medical device and equipment costs
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Emotional distress
As an accident victim, you may not be aware of these and other damages available to you after a wreck. For this reason, it is strongly advised that you seek out an experienced Illinois car accident attorney. They will work diligently to ensure that you pursue all avenues for compensation.
Contact and Speak With a Cook County Inclement Weather Accident Attorney Today!
Inclement weather is uncontrollable. However, motorists out in poor, dangerous road conditions can control how they behave when the weather has turned.
If a negligent party has caused you to suffer harm from an inclement weather accident, contact Stein & Shulman for a free consultation and to learn about the compensation you may be owed. Call today.
