Storms and Inclement Weather Accident Risks

Florida’s Palm Beach County is known for its stunning landscapes, but it is also home to unpredictable weather, and tropical storms and other rough weather patterns can increase the risk of car and truck accidents.

To explore how Florida weather conditions pose challenges for drivers and discuss possible paths to obtaining monetary compensation for accident-related expenses after a storm-related collision, connect with a Delray Beach personal injury attorney.

Weather-Related Accident Risks in Palm Beach County

Southeastern Florida weather can present unique challenges for drivers, and some of these risks, such as the following, increase the risk of accidents.

• Heavy rain. Florida is no stranger to extremely heavy rainfall during certain times of year, and Palm Beach County is no exception. Sudden downpours can lead to dangerous driving conditions, quickly reducing visibility and creating slippery road conditions. In addition, flooding is possible when a lot of rains come down fast, making certain roads impassable and causing drivers to lose control.
• Tropical storms and hurricanes. Palm Beach County is susceptible to hurricanes and tropical storms and these severe weather events can bring strong winds, heavy rain, and even tornadoes, resulting in very hazardous driving conditions. On top of the wet considerations, high winds can be especially dangerous for high-profile vehicles like trucks.
• Lightning strikes. The state of Florida experiences a high frequency of lightning strikes, particularly during storms. Flashes of light can pose visibility threats to drivers themselves and if lightning causes power outages or other issues, it can contribute to accidents.

Staying safe when driving means keeping an eye on weather forecasts, especially during hurricane season. When you stay informed about potential storms and plan your travels accordingly, it can help you keep yourself and your passengers safe. If you know a storm is imminent, you can adjust your plans accordingly, such as delaying your trip until conditions improve.

If you choose to travel during bad weather, reduce your speed and increase the distance between your vehicle and others to protect yourself from accident risks. Other steps you can take include using headlights and turn signals so you are visible and can communicate your intentions to other drivers. Also, avoid flooded areas. Even shallow water can hide dangers like debris or washed-out sections of road, leading to accidents.

Negotiation and Litigation

Insurance companies may try to minimize payouts by attributing accidents solely to weather conditions, but a skilled Delray Beach personal injury attorney can discuss the facts of the case with the insurance company ensuring that the impact of adverse weather is appropriately considered. When a fair settlement cannot be reached, a lawyer can represent you in court.

Has a Florida storm contributed to your accident expenses? With the expertise of legal professionals on your side, you will have an expert guiding you through the processes of securing the compensation you need for medical expenses and property damage. Lean on over 30 years of legal experience, reach out and talk to the attorneys at Earnhart Law. Call 561-265-2220 or contact us online today.