Spring is here: Avoid car accidents in Wisconsin’s changing weather

Spring is here: Avoid car accidents in Wisconsin’s changing weather

Spring is a volatile time of year in Wisconsin. One day Wisconsin weather may be sunny and warm with dry streets while the next a snowstorm may be covering the roadways with slick, slushy accumulation. Because of these changes, it is important for drivers in Wisconsin to take extra precautions to avoid automobile accidents during the spring.

Types of spring car crashes in Wisconsin

Although distracted driving and drunk driving accidents are cause for concern throughout the year, Wisconsinites may want to pay extra attention to the roadways in the spring. Other drivers may take the road conditions for granted and make poor decisions while driving. One possible result: an accident with another driver who is speeding. Wisconsin’s Department of Motor Vehicles recently reported that there were 18, 358 speed related crashes in the state in 2011 alone. Of these crashes, 7, 704 drivers and passengers were injured and 162 were killed.

In addition to accidents involving speeding drivers, it is also important to be on the lookout for local wildlife. Although accidents with deer are generally highest in the fall, they can also occur in the spring as the weather warms. The DMV reported 18, 174 deer crashes in 2011 with 427 injuries to drivers and passengers and 5 deaths.

Tips to avoid these accidents

Defensive driving can help reduce the risk of involvement in some accidents. There are various methods that can be used, but arguably one of the most effective in these situations is increased awareness of the environment around you. It may seem obvious, but paying attention can reduce the risk of an accident.

More specifically, those concerned about hitting a deer should be on the alert between dawn and dusk. Deer are most active during these periods.

In addition to being aware of other drivers, it is also important to be prepared for a vehicle to hydroplane. Hydroplaning occurs when a vehicle’s tires lose traction with the roadway when going over even a small amount of water. This can increase in the spring when rain is a fairly common occurrence. It is important to note that this phenomenon can happen even at relatively slow speeds. Vehicles that begin to hydroplane should generally ease off the gas and, when possible, keep the vehicle’s wheels straight until traction is regained.

What to do if injured in an accident

Unfortunately, even when precautions are taken accidents can happen. If you or a loved one is injured in a car crash that is the result of the negligent or reckless act of another, remedies may be available to help cover the cost of medical treatment, rehabilitation and potentially even lost wages.

Liability in these situations is generally tied to the legal theory of negligence. Essentially, a driver is negligent when he or she fails to operate the vehicle safely and their failure leads to an accident that caused injuries. Establishing negligence can be done in a number of ways. Contact an experienced Wisconsin car accident lawyer to discuss your case and help to better ensure your legal rights and any potential remedies are protected.