Unpredictable Weather Creates Unexpected Hazards 
In Charlotte, March can be a month of weather extremes. Drivers can experience one moment of sunny, warm weather, only for it to quickly shift to a cold front, fog, or heavy rain. These changes often cause unexpected hazards, including:
- Rain Showers: March is one of the wettest months in Charlotte, with rainstorms that can come out of nowhere. Wet roads, combined with a sudden decrease in visibility, make driving treacherous.
- Morning Frost: Although temperatures may rise during the day, mornings can still experience frost, particularly on bridges and overpasses. These icy patches can be especially dangerous, causing a sudden loss of control for unsuspecting drivers.
- Wind Gusts: March winds are no stranger in Charlotte, and gusty conditions can make it difficult to drive safely, particularly for larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs. High winds can result in swerving or even flipping if the vehicle is not controlled properly.
Marcel McCrea
Attorney
James A. Noel
Attorney
Tylisa Crawford
Paralegal
Why March Weather Makes Accident Claims More Complex
Car accidents are complicated enough, but when weather is involved, they become even more challenging. In cases where the weather has a direct impact on the accident, it can be difficult to establish clear fault and determine how the weather conditions affected the incident. Here are a few ways March’s weather complicates car accident claims:- Proving Weather-Related Fault: Insurance companies and courts may be skeptical about weather-related claims. Drivers may argue that the weather was the primary cause of the crash, but proving this can be difficult. If there is a dispute over the level of negligence, insurance companies may dispute liability. For example, if a driver hydroplaned on a wet road, the insurance company may argue that the driver should have adjusted their speed despite the rain.
- Inaccurate or Incomplete Police Reports: Police reports are an essential part of any car accident claim, but when weather is involved, they may not always provide the complete information necessary for a clear determination of fault. Officers may fail to report key weather conditions or fail to link those conditions to the cause of the accident.
- Property Damage: After an accident, assessing damage can be tricky if weather-related factors contributed to the crash. For example, if a car skidded off the road due to icy patches or poor visibility from fog, the damage may not be immediately apparent. This can lead to challenges in determining how much coverage is needed for repairs.
- Delay in Evidence Collection: The aftermath of an accident involving weather conditions can be chaotic. Evidence such as photos of the crash scene, tire marks, or even the weather conditions themselves might be difficult to capture. This can make it challenging to build a strong case for the insurance claim or litigation process.
The Role of Weather Documentation in the Claims Process
When you’re filing a claim after an accident that was influenced by weather, thorough documentation becomes crucial. Being able to prove that March weather conditions played a role in the accident can be the key to receiving fair compensation. Here are some ways to document the weather conditions and the accident scene:- Photos and Videos: Take clear photos of the accident scene, especially the road conditions. If there was rain or snow, photos showing puddles or wet roads can help illustrate how the weather contributed to the accident. Video footage from nearby traffic cameras or dash cams can also provide vital evidence.
- Weather Reports: Retaining weather reports for the date and time of the accident can show that the weather was a contributing factor. The National Weather Service or local news outlets provide accurate records of weather conditions that may have been present at the time of the accident.
- Witness Statements: If there were witnesses to the accident, ask them to provide a statement about the weather at the time. Witness testimony can strengthen your case and help demonstrate that the weather conditions were abnormal or extreme.
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What to Do After a Weather-Related Car Accident
If you’re involved in a car accident during March, it’s essential to take specific steps to ensure your claim is handled properly. Here’s what you should do:- Call the Police: Always report the accident to the authorities. A police report is essential for documenting the details of the accident, including weather conditions. If the officer fails to include weather information, you can ask for this to be added later.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, injuries from car accidents can sometimes show up hours or even days later. A prompt medical examination helps establish a record of any injuries related to the crash, which is important for your claim.
- Document the Scene: As mentioned, take photos of the accident scene, your vehicle, and any weather-related conditions such as puddles, ice, or fog. This documentation will help support your case.
- Report the Accident to Your Insurance: Notify your insurance company of the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with all the details and documentation of the weather conditions to ensure they understand how this impacted the accident.
- Contact an Attorney: Weather-related accidents can complicate claims, and having a legal professional on your side is crucial. An attorney can help guide you through the process and advocate for you in the event of a dispute with insurance companies.