Driving in bad weather is always risky. Rain decreases visibility and can make roads slick, increasing the risk of losing control of a vehicle. Many people stay home when the weather is terrible. Professional drivers—including truckers—do not have that luxury. They must continue driving in most weather conditions.
Due to their size and weight, trucks pose a unique threat on the road. A large passenger truck can weigh 8,000 pounds, while a tractor-trailer can reach 80,000 pounds. This creates a more powerful force upon impact, often resulting in severe injuries and even fatalities. When trucks are involved in accidents during bad weather, the risks escalate. Those involved in bad weather truck accidents in Southlake should consult with an experienced 18-wheeler crash attorney.
Weather as a Contributing Factor
While bad weather can contribute to dangerous road conditions, it does not excuse negligent or impaired driving. When weather conditions become too hazardous, a responsible driver should pull over. Continuing to drive in dangerous weather could be evidence of negligence. This perspective is vital while seeking legal assistance for bad weather semi-truck crashes in Southlake.
Truckers—and other professional drivers—have experience driving in all weather conditions. Part of their professional training focuses on safely navigating dangerous situations and recognizing when driving is too hazardous. Because of this, a factfinder might expect truckers to know more about the risks of bad weather than other drivers.
Even if a trucker follows the safety rules, other drivers on the road may not. Those motorists can cause truckers to brake abruptly, change lanes to avoid accidents, and other behaviors that can increase the risk of crashes.
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Federal Laws on Driving in Inclement Weather
In addition to their training and common sense, truckers need to pay attention to the law. 49 C.F.R. § 392.14 provides that commercial drivers should exercise extreme caution when driving in adverse weather conditions. Truckers should reduce speed when they encounter any weather that could impact traction or visibility. In addition, the regulation states that when conditions are too dangerous to drive, the trucker should stop until it is safe.
The existence of a law regulating when truckers should stop driving can help establish negligence. While the regulation is helpful, it is also vague. It leaves it up to the trucker to determine whether the weather is safe enough to continue driving. Fortunately, witnesses and evidence can help establish bad weather conditions during a Southlake truck accident, helping determine if the trucker behaved reasonably.
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Third-Party Liability
Other parties may be responsible for collisions along with truckers. Trucking companies’ policies and procedures can reveal whether they prioritize safety or profits. Some companies actively discourage truckers from stopping. While these practices will not be documented in writing or manuals, ex-employees may be willing to testify about them.
If an employer’s policies are negligent, they may share liability for any resulting injuries from a truck accident. Employers can also share liability for failing to properly maintain a vehicle or employing truckers with a history of bad decision-making.
People in adverse weather truck wrecks in Southlake may experience significant injuries. In such instances, a determined lawyer could explore all potential parties that may be held liable through a personal injury lawsuit.
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Learn More About Southlake Bad Weather Truck Accidents
Getting in a collision with a heavy commercial vehicle is always dangerous. Hazardous weather conditions increase the risk of wrecks and severe injuries. Bad weather is no excuse for a crash—professional drivers should be more cautious under those conditions.
If you have been injured in a bad weather truck accident in Southlake, a seasoned attorney may be able to help. Schedule a consultation to find out more.
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