Driving in Jackson during late summer storms can be surprisingly hazardous. While the warm summer often signals fun road trips and weekend adventures, late summer brings unpredictable weather that can pose significant risks to drivers. These conditions, from heavy rains to sudden lightning and slippery roads, increase the likelihood of accidents.
If you’ve been injured in an accident during one of these storms, you might be wondering who’s responsible for the damages. That’s exactly what we’ll explore in this guide. We’ll cover the unique challenges of driving during late summer storms in Jackson, how these conditions can lead to accidents, and who could be held liable. Plus, we’ll share practical tips to keep you safe when the weather takes a turn for the worse.
Why Late Summer Storms in Jackson Are Especially Dangerous
Like much of the South, Jackson experiences hot and humid summers that can create the perfect conditions for sudden thunderstorms. Late summer storms present challenges that make driving trickier, even for the most experienced drivers.
1. Reduced Visibility
Heavy rain is one of the biggest culprits of poor visibility during late summer storms. A sudden downpour can make seeing the road ahead, other vehicles, or even traffic signs difficult. Standing water on the roads may hide potholes or other hazards, making driving even more complicated.
2. Slippery Roads
Rainwater mixing with oil and debris on the roads creates a slick surface, especially at the beginning of a storm. This dramatically increases the chances of skidding or hydroplaning. Slippery roads reduce traction and can make it harder for drivers to stop their vehicles in time to avoid a collision.
3. Sudden Weather Changes
Late summer weather in Jackson can shift in an instant. Sunshine can quickly turn into a thunderstorm with barely any warning. This unpredictability means drivers often find themselves unprepared for worsening conditions.
4. Flooded Areas
Certain areas in Jackson are prone to flooding during summer storms. These flood-prone zones can catch drivers off guard, potentially submerging vehicles and endangering lives.
Each of these factors makes late summer storms a serious driving hazard, and unfortunately, they are a common cause of accidents during this season.
How Summer Storm Conditions Lead to Accidents
Weather alone isn’t responsible for car accidents; it’s often the combination of poor weather and human error. Here are some common ways stormy conditions contribute to accidents:
- Hydroplaning occurs when tires lose contact with the road surface because of standing water. This can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles.
- Rear-end collisions become more common as slippery roads increase braking distance.
- Head-on collisions can result from drivers veering out of their lane due to reduced visibility or overcorrecting.
- Run-off-road accidents often happen when drivers underestimate the danger of wet conditions and take curves too fast, causing them to slide off the pavement.
Whether it’s a fender bender or a more severe crash, many of these accidents could have been avoided with better preparation or safer driving techniques.
Who’s Liable After an Accident in a Summer Storm?
Determining liability for accidents during bad weather isn’t always straightforward. While poor weather may be a contributing factor, drivers are still responsible for operating their vehicles safely. Here’s how liability is generally assigned in these cases:
1. The Driver
The most common scenario is that the driver involved in the accident is held liable. For example, if someone was speeding, tailgating, or driving recklessly in stormy conditions, their negligence might make them responsible for causing the crash.
2. A Third Party
Sometimes, liability can fall on a third party. For instance:
- Another Negligent Driver could be at fault if their unsafe actions, such as running a red light or failing to yield, caused the chain of events leading to the accident.
- Municipalities or Road Maintenance Crews might be liable if poor road drainage, potholes, or inadequate signage played a role.
3. Vehicle Manufacturers
If a failure in the vehicle caused the crash – like defective brakes or faulty windshield wipers – the manufacturer could bear some responsibility.
Shared Liability
Mississippi operates under a “pure comparative fault” rule, meaning multiple parties can share liability for an accident. Even if the weather contributed to the crash, courts will look at how much each party’s actions led to the event.
It’s important to understand that every case is different. Consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney is often the best step to determine liability and pursue compensation if you've been involved in a storm-related accident.
Tips for Safe Driving During Summer Storms
While accidents aren’t always avoidable, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. Here are a few practical tips for staying safe on the road during late summer storms:
- Reduce your speed. Slowing down gives you more time to react to sudden hazards and helps your tires maintain traction on wet roads.
- Turn on your headlights. This makes it easier for other drivers to see you during heavy rain or low-visibility conditions.
- Keep a safe distance. Increase the gap between you and the vehicle in front of you for longer braking times.
- Avoid flooded roads. If you aren’t sure how deep the water is, finding an alternate route is better.
- Check your tires. Ensure proper tire pressure and tread depth. Worn tires are less effective at gripping slippery roads.
- Stay focused. Avoid distractions like texting or fiddling with the radio when driving in stormy conditions.
How Legal Assistance Can Help After a Storm-Related Accident
If you’ve been injured in an accident during a late summer storm, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. An experienced personal injury attorney can investigate your case, gather evidence, and help you determine liability. They’ll work to ensure you get the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and any other damages.
Accidents during summer storms are stressful enough without the added burden of navigating legal complexities on your own. By partnering with a knowledgeable lawyer, you can focus on your recovery while your case is handled professionally.
Jackson Car Accident Attorney
If you find yourself in need of legal guidance following a storm-related incident on Jackson's roads, don't hesitate to contact Coxwell & Associates. Our experienced team is ready to assist and guide you through the complexities of legal liability and insurance claims, assuring you of professional support here in Jackson, MS. Reach out to us today at (601) 265-7766 to explore your options and secure peace of mind amid the vicissitudes of late summer weather.