During the winter, ice and snow on the roads can make driving conditions difficult and accidents more likely for all road users: cyclists, pedestrians, passengers, motorists and motorcyclists.
Road Traffic Accidents in poor conditions can often be serious, with those involved less likely to have time to react. In some cases, injuries sustained by road users may be life-changing or even fatal.
We could help you start a compensation to cover the impact of your injuries and other losses, in circumstances such as the following:
- A driver drove recklessly or failed to adapt their driving to take account of the hazardous road and weather conditions
- The local authority, alongside the Highways Agency, failed in their duty of care in taking reasonable steps to make the road surface safe for road users; ice or snow caused an accident as a result
Weather conditions can change rapidly; the authorities must prioritise major routes when allocating resources to salt spreading and may decide to close roads which are particularly hazardous. They should also alert drivers to any hazards where appropriate (with signs etc).
The council will not be able to grit / clear all roads and cannot be held responsible for all accidents that are caused by snow and ice. However, if the authorities have failed to follow the regulations in The Highways Act, you may have grounds to make a claim for compensation.
Poor weather conditions can make it especially difficult to establish who was at fault for a road traffic accident. If you have been injured in an accident in wintry conditions, we would recommend you speak to one of our helpful specialists on freephone 0808 2565 184.
