Ice and Snow = Trouble Driving in St. Louis, Missouri

Black Ice and Slippery Roads

In general, it is best not to drive during poor conditions unless you have to drive. If you do have to drive, slow down. Increase your following distance behind cars in front of you. Bridges and exits can be extra icy. Ice is not always as visible as the snow as the day wears on without temperatures dropping much, the conditions for black ice increase. Black ice is clear ice on the dark roadway that appears black/gray like the roadway and may be difficult to see. Keeping your speed slow is usually a good idea for unexpected road conditions. Allow extra time in your commute in the evenings.

Even if most of the roadways appear fine, be extra careful on bridges, exits, or anywhere that requires you to turn your vehicle very sharply. Avoid unnecessary lane changes just to move along faster. Be patient.

Wouldn’t a Weather-Related Car Accident Be No-Fault, No-Liability?

Just because a car accident occurs on snow/icy roads, it does not automatically dismiss anyone of fault in an auto accident, depending on the circumstances. Many think that if they were involved in a car accident in bad weather, then it was an “act of God” occurrence, but that is not always the case. Often accidents on slippery roadways are still caused by driver choice such as driving too fast for road conditions, failing to pay attention, following too closely, improperly passing, and distracted driving such as texting. If one of these other factors may have contributed to your accident and you have injuries, you may need legal representation. Don’t always assume that just because the road was icy, no one is at fault. Each accident is unique and has a unique fact set. If you are in question, call our attorneys for a free consultation. Consultations are relatively short and packed with information so you can make the most informed choices.

Oftentimes, we become very impatient when our commute doubles or triples in length. We all have things to do, and when driving to work this morning, I notice people who were passing dangerously. I can only assume it was because the longer commute was making them late for work. While I sure like my employees to be on time for work, if it comes down to being on time or being involved in a car accident, I will take a “tardy” anytime. The overnight snow and ice did kind of catch us by surprise as it happened in the middle of the night. That’s the thing about living in Missouri; you never know if the weather forecast will come true or not until you look at the window!

Since we live in Missouri, we must anticipate snow and ice in the winter months and plan ahead. I have blogged frequently on the importance of getting your vehicle ready for winter weather, as well as safe driving tips for Missouri and Illinois drivers.

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