While driver errors and misjudgments are the leading causes of car accidents, weather can also contribute to collisions. Heavy rain, snowstorms, fog, and a host of other weather events often create unsafe driving conditions.
Rain and Snow as Contributing Factors Causing Car Accidents
Rain and snow are the most frequently cited weather factors that result in car accidents. Precipitation on the road creates slippery conditions, making it harder for tires to gain traction for braking. When a vehicle attempts to brake or accelerate, hydroplaning can occur. Furthermore, reduced visibility and obstructed views heighten the risk of rear-end collisions.
When weather conditions like rain or snow contribute to a crash, consulting a car accident lawyer in Pennsylvania can help clarify your legal options.
Foggy Weather Makes for Difficult Navigating
Simply put, foggy weather makes it difficult for a driver to see their surroundings. Depending on how heavy or thick the fog is, their visibility may extend no farther than the front of the vehicle. Significantly reduced visibility means that the driver is at greater risk of colliding with another car. It can also mean that pedestrians and cyclists are harder to spot, increasing the chances of an accident.
Adding to the decreased visibility provided in foggy weather conditions, when headlights are turned on, it is common for them to reflect off the fog and create a wall-like effect for the driver. This can entirely block their view of the road. Thankfully, fog lights can help out in these situations, though they are not a standard feature on cars.
Extreme Temperatures Create Unsafe Driving Conditions
Exceptionally hot or cold temperatures can dramatically affect driving conditions. Pavement temperature can increase a vehicle’s tire pressure; even a 10-degree increase can add 2 pounds of pressure. In more extreme circumstances, a tire’s internal pressure may increase by as much as four or five pounds. This is often what causes a tire to blow out, especially at high speeds.
Cold temperatures present their own unique risks to the performance of a vehicle. When they take hold, a tire can lose pressure due to the air inside it contracting. Underinflated tires can accelerate tread wear, potentially leading to car accidents. Additionally, the rubber on the outside of a tire can stiffen, making it more susceptible to cracks or leaks.
Engine and battery issues are also common. For example, cold weather can thicken engine oil and weaken battery power, making the vehicle harder to operate overall. Plus, not only does cold weather drop temperatures to dangerous levels, but it can also bring together high winds and icy precipitation. Drivers must be vigilant when driving in these conditions.
