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How dangerous fall conditions increase the risk of motor vehicle accidents
Fall in New Jersey brings cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage, but it also introduces new hazards on the road. Dangerous driving conditions such as wet leaves, reduced daylight, and increased wildlife activity can contribute to motor vehicle accidents.
If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by these conditions, it’s essential to understand who can be held responsible and how you can recover compensation. In this blog, we’ll explore common fall road hazards and discuss your legal options with the help of a personal injury lawyer.
Common Fall Road Hazards in New Jersey
The fall season brings unique challenges to drivers in New Jersey. Here are the most common hazards that can increase the risk of accidents during this time of year:
Wet Leaves
Falling leaves are one of the most iconic symbols of autumn, but when they become wet, they can be just as slippery as ice. Wet leaves on the road reduce traction for vehicles, making it harder to stop, turn, or control your car. In some cases, they can even cover up important road markings, potholes, or other hazards, making driving more dangerous.
Reduced Daylight
With shorter days in the fall, drivers are often on the road during dusk or night hours. Reduced visibility can make it more difficult to see pedestrians, cyclists, or obstacles in the road. Additionally, glare from low sun angles during sunrise or sunset can temporarily blind drivers, increasing the risk of accidents.
Rain and Fog
Fall weather in New Jersey often includes rain and fog, both of which can impair visibility and road conditions. Wet roads increase the risk of hydroplaning, and fog can reduce a driver’s ability to see other vehicles, road signs, or hazards. Both conditions require extra caution, yet many drivers fail to adjust their speed or driving behavior appropriately.
Increased Wildlife Activity
Deer and other wildlife are more active during the fall, particularly in the early morning and evening hours. Collisions with animals can cause significant damage to vehicles and pose a serious threat to drivers and passengers. Deer crossings are especially common in wooded or rural areas, but even in suburban neighborhoods, drivers need to stay alert.
School Traffic and Pedestrians
With the return of the school year, there is an increase in traffic from buses, parents, and student drivers. School zones become more crowded, and children crossing the street can be hard to see, especially during the early morning or late afternoon when visibility is reduced. Accidents involving pedestrians, particularly children, are a significant risk in school zones during the fall.
Who Can Be Held Responsible for Fall Road Accidents?
If you’ve been injured in an accident due to dangerous fall road conditions, you may be wondering who can be held accountable. Several parties could potentially bear responsibility, depending on the circumstances of the accident.
Negligent Drivers
Even though fall conditions require extra caution, many drivers fail to adjust their driving behavior accordingly. If a driver is speeding, tailgating, or failing to account for poor visibility or slick roads, they can be held liable for causing an accident. A personal injury lawyer can help you prove that another driver’s negligence contributed to your injuries.
Municipalities or Road Maintenance Authorities
In some cases, the government or the entity responsible for maintaining the roads can be held liable. For example, if roads are not properly cleared of wet leaves or debris, or if there are poorly maintained signs or signals that contribute to the accident, you may be able to file a claim against the municipality or road maintenance authority.
Vehicle Manufacturers
If a defect in your vehicle contributed to the accident, such as faulty brakes or tires that are not suited for wet or slippery conditions, the vehicle manufacturer could be held responsible. Product liability claims may be more complex, but an experienced motor vehicle accident attorney can help you investigate whether a defect played a role in your crash and subsequent injuries.
Property Owners
In cases where accidents occur in parking lots or on private property, the property owner may be held liable if they failed to properly maintain their property. For example, if a parking lot is covered in wet leaves or debris and you have a vehicle accident, the property owner may be responsible for your injuries.
How to Recover Compensation After a Fall Road Accident
Recovering compensation after a fall-related car accident involves filing a personal injury claim. This can help cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Below are the steps you should take after an accident:
1. Seek Medical Attention
The first and most important step is to get medical attention immediately after the accident if you are injured. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not be immediately obvious. Documenting your injuries right away is crucial for your health and for any future personal injury claims.
2. Document the Scene
If possible, take photos of the accident scene, including the condition of the road, any wet leaves, weather conditions, and damage to vehicles. If there were witnesses to the accident, be sure to collect their contact information as well.
3. Contact an Experienced Motor Vehicle Accident Attorney
An experienced motor vehicle accident attorney can help you navigate the complex legal process of filing a personal injury claim in New Jersey. They will investigate the accident, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation.
4. File a Claim for Compensation
Once you’ve consulted with your personal injury attorney, they will help you file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. As detailed above, in some cases, you may also need to file a claim against a municipality, vehicle manufacturer, or property owner, depending on who is liable for the accident and some claims have much shorter and more strict reporting requirements, so it is important to seek legal representation as soon as possible after the accident.
Types of Compensation You Can Recover After a Motor Vehicle Accident
After a motor vehicle accident caused by dangerous fall road conditions, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical Expenses: This includes the cost of emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, medications, physical therapy, and any other medical treatment required for your recovery.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can recover compensation for the income you lost during your recovery period.
- Pain and Suffering: In addition to financial losses, you may be able to recover compensation for the physical and emotional pain caused by the accident.
- Property Damage: If your vehicle or other personal property was damaged in the accident, you may be entitled to compensation for repairs or replacement.
Why You Need a Personal Injury Lawyer After a Motor Vehicle Accident This Fall
Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to recover from injuries. A personal injury lawyer can make the process easier by handling all aspects of your case, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies. They will ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses, and they’ll fight for your rights if the case goes to court.
An experienced lawyer understands how to build a strong case based on the specific hazards of autumn road conditions. Whether you were injured due to wet leaves, poor visibility, or another fall-related hazard, they’ll help you determine who is responsible and how to hold them accountable.
Were You Injured in a Motor Vehicle Accident in New Jersey? Contact Team Law – Your Trusted Personal Injury Lawyers
Autumn is a beautiful season, but it also brings unique road hazards that can increase the risk of motor vehicle accidents. If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by dangerous fall conditions, understanding your legal rights is crucial. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Consulting a personal injury lawyer at Team Law is the best way to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Call us today at 732-896-2560 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation. We’ll help you understand your rights and guide you through the process of filing a claim to recover the compensation you need.
