Zimmer, Duncan & Cole

Who is at fault for a South Dakota car accident in severe weather?

Severe weather causes hundreds of car accidents in South Dakota every year, with the extent of the damage ranging from minor property damage to serious personal injuries and fatalities. Not only does severe weather strike in the winter months with snow, ice, and sleet, but it also is common for rain and fog to create hazardous conditions throughout the year. But who is at fault for a motor vehicle accident that occurs in severe weather?

Drivers in South Dakota have to be flexible and attentive when driving in harsh weather in order to avoid collisions. If the road is slick from the accumulation of water or ice, the tires will lose traction and the driver will not be able to maintain control of the vehicle. Drivers are responsible for maintaining control of their motor vehicles, even in severe weather.

If a car accident occurs in South Dakota, several factors must be taken into account, in addition to the severe weather. An experienced attorney will review the details of each case and look at all of the evidence, including:

• Was the driver distracted at the time of the accident? Was the driver making a phone call or texting? Were there others in the car diverting the driver's attention?
• Was the car malfunctioning? Was there a problem with the brakes?
• Was alcohol or drugs involved? Was the driver operating the vehicle under the influence at the time of the crash?
• What was the driver's speed? Was the car going too fast, particularly in light of the hazardous road conditions?

If you have been in a motor vehicle accident in South Dakota, contact a South Dakota car accident attorney at Zimmer, Duncan & Cole. We have been representing clients and winning cases throughout South Dakota since 1948. Call us toll free at (888) 733-2992 to speak with a South Dakota car accident lawyer, and order a copy of our free book, The Ultimate Guide to Car and Truck Accident Cases in South Dakota: 7 Deadly Sins That Can Wreck Your Injury Claim. Call us today. We are here to speak with you.