If you are an adult who regularly drives a car, there is a good chance that you have driven in poor weather such as rain or snow. As a result, you understand that poor weather can negatively affect vehicle performance and visibility conditions. The professional drivers who operate semi-trucks and their vehicles are no exception to this rule, and commercial vehicle drivers are legally required to exercise “extreme caution” in hazardous conditions. Unfortunately, this does not always occur, sometimes resulting in serious injury-causing accidents. Anyone involved in a semi-truck accident that occurred in bad weather should consult with a Peachtree City truck accident attorney to ensure that their legal rights are protected.
There are many conditions that could trigger a truck driver’s responsibility to use extreme cautions. Some of the more common reasons include:
- Smoke
- Fog
- Snow
- Rain
- Sleet
- High winds
- Ice
If a truck driver fails to properly account for a hazardous condition and causes an accident, he or she could potentially be held liable for any injuries that resulted. Some examples of not properly accounting for weather conditions are failing to reduce speed, use windshield wipers, turn on headlights, or in some cases, failing to pull off the road completely. The issue of whether a truck driver acted in accordance with the applicable regulations is a legally complicated matter, and it is advisable for victims of truck accidents to consult with an attorney before deciding how to proceed. Finally, anyone involved in a semi-truck accident should be sure to seek medical attention immediately.
Contact a Peachtree City truck accident attorney for a free consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured in a semi-truck accident in which poor weather conditions played a role, you may be entitled to substantial compensation. Potential damages available in a semi-truck accident case could include compensation for medical expenses, property damage, lost income, pain and suffering, and others. To schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced truck accident lawyers, call Shane Smith Law today at (980) 246-2656. If you would like to send us an email, please fill out and submit the online contact form available above.