How Does Bad Weather Affect Accident Liability?

 Posted on May 08, 2025 in Personal Injury

When Illinois weather takes a turn for the worse, the roads can quickly become dangerous. Snow, ice, rain, and fog often lead to serious car accidents that can leave both drivers and passengers with severe injuries.

If you have been in an accident caused by inclement weather, you are likely to have several questions. Does the weather play a role in determining who is at fault? Can a driver be held responsible for an accident if they were navigating through adverse conditions?

To understand how bad weather affects car crash claims, a Lombard motor vehicle accident lawyer can help you navigate the nuances of these cases so that you can secure fair compensation.

What Weather Accidents Are Common in Illinois?

Throughout the year, Illinois drivers face a variety of weather hazards that increase crash risks. Snow-related crashes are common during the winter months. Even when roads are salted, icy patches can catch drivers off guard.

Accidents caused by rain often occur because roads become slick with water and drivers have reduced visibility during downpours. Hydroplaning is a frequent issue in spring and summer, especially if the vehicle has old tires or the roads have poor drainage.

Fog-related crashes are particularly dangerous on rural roads and highways. The limited visibility can lead to chain-reaction accidents or missed traffic signals.

Do Weather Conditions Excuse Negligence?

Illinois law holds drivers accountable for how they operate their vehicles under any conditions, including bad weather. The state's negligence laws require drivers to act with reasonable care, which includes adjusting their speed, following distance, and overall driving behavior based on the weather conditions.

If a driver causes a crash by failing to drive cautiously during bad weather, they may still be held liable. For instance, failing to slow down on an icy road or following too closely in heavy rain may be seen as negligent behavior.

What Factors Affect Liability in Weather Crashes?

Both insurance companies and courts will consider multiple details when evaluating car accident claims that occurred in poor weather. Certain factors help determine whether a driver acted reasonably and whether his or her actions contributed to the crash. These include:

• Driving too fast for the weather conditions

• Failing to use headlights, wipers, or defrosters

• Inadequate stopping distance

• Poor vehicle maintenance, such as worn-down tires or broken lights

• Disregarding weather alerts or road hazard signs

A driver's ability to adapt to road conditions is often the key factor in assigning liability.

Contact a DuPage County, IL Car Accident Attorney

Bad weather does not eliminate a driver’s responsibility after a crash. If you were injured in a weather-related accident, you can still pursue compensation. A knowledgeable Lombard, IL car crash lawyer can help you build a strong claim and secure the financial recovery you deserve. Contact Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices today at 630-932-9100 to schedule a free consultation and learn more about your legal options.