Snowy Vehicle Crash in Toledo Lucas County
On January 23rd, 2022, Ohio police responded to a multi-vehicle crash on I-475. Officers responded around 10:00 am in the area of East Alexis on I-475 after calls of multiple vehicles being involved in an accident. The OHGO highway camera showed at least a dozen vehicles on the side of the highway disabled and facing in all directions.
At the time of the crash, no injuries were reported. However, it was too early for all damages to be determined. The accident occurred in the snowy conditions caused by the early morning storm.
Duty of the Driver in Snowy Conditions
In Ohio, drivers have an obligation to follow all traffic laws. Drivers are also under a legal obligation to operate their vehicle at the slower of: the posted speed limit, or the speed, given the traffic or weather conditions, that permits them to maintain control of the vehicle. A driver in the best of road conditions has a duty to operate a vehicle with due regard for the safety of others on the road. When driving in snow and ice a driver must use additional care–taking those conditions into account. When driving in snow and ice extra precautions must be taken because of the higher risks of accidents in these conditions.
Follow some of these tips:
- Keep the windows and windshield clear.
- Obtain maximum visibility by turning on low-beam headlights and windshield wipers.
- Drive slowly and stay farther behind the vehicle ahead. Slow to a crawl on ice. Slow down as you approach curves and intersections.
- Avoid fast turns.
- Avoid quick stops.
- Shift to a low gear before going down a steep hill, but do not downshift at too fast a speed.
- If you drive in snowy areas, carry chains in case you find yourself in conditions where you can’t drive without them.
Learn how to put the chains on BEFORE you need to use them.
To anticipate and adjust one’s driving is expected if one is to avoid being at fault in an accident in these situations. Failing to do so can make the driver at fault for an accident even when snow and ice play a part. Looking at the weather conditions, the speed the other driver was traveling, the traffic signals or signs that may have been a part of the situation, and the way the driver reacted to the changing conditions are all important issues to consider when looking at “fault’ and whether another driver caused an accident.
Reach Out to Our Legal Team Today
If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident where the snow or ice played a part, and you or that loved one are struggling with the consequences of the accident. Even if you have been told that “it was just the weather that caused the accident” call Charles E. Boyk Law Offices and speak with an experienced lawyer regarding your situation. Our lawyers understand and will help you throughout any claim you may have.