Winter Weather Accidents: How to Stay Safe and When a Lawyer Can Help

Winter is a magical season with its snowy landscapes, holiday cheer, and cozy nights by the fire. 

However, the colder months also bring dangerous weather conditions that can lead to accidents, particularly on the roads and in public spaces. 

At Morgan & Morgan, we know that winter weather accidents can turn your life upside down in an instant. That's why we’re here to provide you with the information you need to stay safe and, if necessary, seek justice after an accident.

If you or someone you love were hurt in a winter weather accident due to someone else’s negligence, such as a business not addressing icy walkways or a driver losing control in a snowstorm, contact Morgan & Morgan for help. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.

Hiring one of our lawyers is easy, and you can get started in minutes with a free case evaluation.

The Alarming Reality of Winter Weather Accidents

Winter weather contributes to thousands of accidents every year in the United States. According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), over 24% of weather-related car crashes occur on snowy, slushy, or icy pavement, and 15% happen during snowfall or sleet. Each year, these conditions cause over 1,300 deaths and 116,800 injuries.

The risks aren’t limited to drivers. Pedestrians and shoppers face an increased likelihood of slip-and-fall accidents during winter storms. Businesses that fail to maintain safe conditions on their premises can put customers at risk. These accidents can lead to broken bones, concussions, and even long-term disabilities, significantly affecting the lives of victims and their families.

But accidents aren’t just numbers to us. Behind every statistic is a real person whose life has been disrupted. Let’s explore how and why these accidents happen, the common mistakes to avoid, and how legal action can help you regain control after a winter weather accident.

Winter Weather Car Crashes

How Winter Weather Affects Driving

Winter weather conditions—snow, sleet, ice, and freezing rain—create some of the most hazardous driving scenarios. Reduced visibility, slippery roads, and longer braking distances make even routine trips risky. Black ice, often invisible to the eye, can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles in the blink of an eye.

Add to that the pressure of holiday travel and more crowded roads, and the likelihood of crashes increases significantly. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), snow and ice can double or even triple stopping distances, leaving little room for error.

The Top Five Common Mistakes Drivers Make in Winter

While winter weather is inherently dangerous, certain avoidable mistakes exacerbate the risks:

• Driving Too Fast for Conditions: Even if the posted speed limit is 55 mph, that doesn’t mean it’s safe to drive that fast during a snowstorm. Adjusting your speed is critical to maintaining control on icy roads.
• Tailgating: Following too closely is a recipe for disaster in winter. Increased stopping distances mean you need far more space to stop safely.
• Failing to Prepare the Vehicle: Bald tires, worn windshield wipers, and insufficient antifreeze can make winter driving significantly more dangerous.
• Ignoring Weather Warnings: Many drivers fail to heed weather advisories, venturing out when it’s safer to stay home.
• Sudden Braking or Accelerating: Abrupt movements can cause a car to skid. Gentle, deliberate actions are key to navigating snowy and icy roads safely.

Slip-and-Fall Accidents During Winter Storm Shopping

The Shopping Dangers No One Talks About

During a snowstorm, many people rush to stock up on groceries, gifts, and other essentials. But parking lots, sidewalks, and store entrances can become hazardous. Ice, snow, and slush create slippery surfaces that can lead to serious injuries.

Slip-and-fall accidents are among the most common winter weather injuries. And while they may sound minor, they can cause severe harm, including:

• Broken wrists, ankles, or hips
• Head injuries, such as concussions or traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal injuries, leading to chronic pain or mobility issues

Who’s Responsible?

Businesses have a legal obligation to maintain safe premises, especially during hazardous weather. This includes:

• Shoveling snow promptly
• Salting or sanding icy areas
• Clearly marking wet or slippery spots
• Ensuring mats and rugs at entrances are secure and absorbent

When a business neglects these duties, they can be held liable for injuries sustained on their property. Unfortunately, many victims don’t realize they can pursue compensation for their injuries, leaving them to shoulder medical bills and lost wages on their own.

How a Lawyer Can Help After a Winter Weather Accident

Whether you’ve been injured in a car crash or a slip-and-fall, it’s important to understand your rights. Winter weather may contribute to accidents, but it doesn’t absolve individuals or businesses of responsibility. Negligence can take many forms, such as:

• A driver speeding despite icy conditions
• A business failing to clear its sidewalks
• A municipality neglecting to plow or salt roads

If someone else’s negligence caused your accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Long-term rehabilitation costs

Why You Need an Attorney

Navigating the legal system after a winter weather accident can be overwhelming, especially if you’re recovering from injuries. A lawyer can:

• Investigate the Accident: We gather evidence to prove negligence, such as skid marks, weather reports, and security footage.
• Negotiate With Insurance Companies: Insurers often try to minimize payouts, but an experienced attorney knows how to fight for the full compensation you deserve.
• Represent You in Court: If a settlement can’t be reached, we’re prepared to take your case to trial.
• Handle Complex Cases: Multi-vehicle pileups or accidents involving public property can be particularly complicated. We have the expertise to untangle these situations.

At Morgan & Morgan, we’re not just attorneys—we’re advocates who genuinely care about getting justice for our clients. Our commitment to fighting For The People drives everything we do.

Tips for Staying Safe During Winter

While we’re here to help if you’re injured, prevention is always better than recovery. Here are some tips to stay safe this winter:

On the Road

• Check your tires and replace them if the tread is worn.
• Keep an emergency kit in your car, including blankets, water, and a flashlight.
• Drive slowly and leave plenty of space between you and the car in front of you.
• Avoid using cruise control on icy roads.

While Shopping

• Wear shoes with good traction.
• Walk carefully, taking smaller steps to maintain balance.
• Report unsafe conditions to store management immediately.

At Home

• Keep your walkways clear of snow and ice.
• Salt your driveway and steps promptly.
• Ensure your home is well-lit to avoid nighttime slips.

If You Find Yourself Weathering the Storm of an Accident, Contact Morgan & Morgan

Winter weather accidents are a harsh reality, but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Whether it’s a car crash, a slip-and-fall, or another injury caused by negligence, Morgan & Morgan is here to help. With decades of experience and a team dedicated to fighting For the People, we’re ready to stand by your side.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a winter weather accident, don’t wait. Contact us today for a free case evaluation. Together, we’ll work to get you the justice and compensation you deserve—so you can focus on what matters most: your recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where Do I File a Claim After a Winter Weather Car Accident?

If you have been injured in a car accident, the first step is to contact an experienced car accident lawyer from Morgan & Morgan before filing a claim. We will discuss your case and assess any potential damages for which you may be entitled to compensation. We can then help you decide the best course of action, whether settling out of court or filing a lawsuit. With our team of experienced lawyers on your side, you can rest assured that all angles will be covered.

Can I Still Recover Damages if I Was Partly at Fault for the Accident?

Yes, although your damages may be reduced depending on the extent of your fault. The legal principle of comparative negligence allows you to still recover from an accident that you were partly at fault for, but your recovery will be reduced proportionally to your percentage of fault.

Keep in mind that some states follow the contributory negligence legal doctrine. In such states, you may be barred from recovering compensation even if you were only 1% at fault for the accident. As of 2022, only four states follow this controversial legal doctrine. They include Alabama, Virginia, North Carolina, and Maryland.

How Common Are Car Accidents in Winter?

Due to hazardous road conditions, car accidents tend to increase during the winter months. Ice and snow can cause the roads to become slippery, and visibility can be reduced due to fog or snowfall. To put things into perspective, let's look at some shocking statistics on car accidents during the winter, per the US Department of Transportation.

• More than 900 people die in the US every year due to car accidents on snowy roads
• Snow and ice account for 24 percent of all weather-related accidents in the US
• Over 76,000 people are injured every year due to car accidents on snowy roads
• The DOT spends at least 20 percent of its budget on maintaining roads during the winter
• States and local government agencies spend more than $2.3 billion every year on snow and ice control operations

How Does Snow Lead to Car Accidents?

Snow can lead to car accidents in several ways. Poor visibility caused by heavy snow or thick layers of ice is one of the leading causes of car accidents. Additionally, icy roads create a slippery surface, resulting in decreased traction and driver control, contributing to accidents. Finally, snow pile-ups caused by poor road maintenance can lead to hazards for drivers who may not expect them to be there.

Can Poor Weather, Such as Snow, Prevent Me From Recovering Damages in a Car Accident?

Generally, poor weather conditions such as snow are considered a "force of nature" in car accident law, so you should still be able to recover damages for your losses. However, depending on the circumstances of the accident, it is possible that inclement weather could limit liability. This explains why it is vital to contact an experienced car accident attorney for a case review before filing a claim or lawsuit.   

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Filing a Car Accident Lawsuit?

Every state has a specific statute of limitations that defines the period in which you can file a car accident lawsuit. Generally, this window ranges from two to six years, although some exceptions may exist.

For this reason, it is important to understand how long you have before filing a lawsuit to avoid missing out on your right to take legal action and get compensation for your losses or injuries. In other words, the sooner you contact Morgan & Morgan to fight for you, the better your chances of beating these deadlines.