Auto Accidents That Happen During A Downpour
Drivers in Florida owe other road users a duty of care. This means that Florida drivers are expected to take precautions to drive safely at all times. Indeed, bad weather can be cited as a factor in an auto accident. However, the reality is that bad weather does not excuse the fault of motorists who drive their cars with less care than they should during the rainy season.
If a person is injured in a Florida auto accident during the rainy season and believes that the other driver played a part in causing the accident, they should reach out to a skilled attorney. Even if an auto accident occurred during a downpour, the actions of drivers should be considered objectively, with the analysis focusing on how a prudent driver would have conducted themselves in the same situation.
So, what would a prudent motorist do during a heavy downpour? In other words, how is a prudent driver expected to act during a downpour? Among other things, prudent drivers are expected to do the following during a downpour:
Drive Slowly
It is harder to control a vehicle when it is raining. Therefore, drivers should reduce their speed limit when driving in the rain. By lowering their speed, a driver can increase their following distance, thus giving themselves enough time to stop in case of anything. When the road is wet, it takes a vehicle more time to come to a complete stop. It is crucial for motorists to allow themselves enough time to identify a hazard and plan how they avoid the danger.
You should know that a driver moving at the set speed limit during a downpour may still be deemed to be negligently operating their vehicle because of, among other things, the reduced visibility.
Pay Extra Attention
Drivers should always pay attention when driving, but it is especially crucial to pay attention during a downpour. Pedestrians and cyclists are vulnerable road users at any time, but they are especially vulnerable during the rainy season when visibility is low.
Avoid Sudden Braking
Drivers should always avoid sudden braking, but it is especially crucial to avoid sudden braking during a downpour. Sudden braking can be dangerous to the driver braking and other road users.
Turn on Lights
Turning on a vehicle’s lights during a downpour increases visibility and reduces the risk of an accident. If an accident happens during a downpour and it is determined that one of the drivers had their lights off, that driver may be held liable for the accident.
If you suffered injuries in a motor vehicle accident in Florida during a downpour and the other motorist is trying to convince you that the rain is to blame for your accident, you should not believe their word before speaking to an attorney. A qualified auto accident attorney can help you in determining if the other driver acted negligently and contributed to your accident.
Legal Help Is Available
Our Miami personal injury attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm can help you with your car accident case. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Fort Lauderdale, Ocala, Orlando, Fort Myers, Jacksonville, Tampa, Bradenton, West Palm Beach, and Daytona Beach areas.
Sources:
law.cornell.edu/wex/negligent
law.cornell.edu/wex/duty_of_care
