Since rain is so common, you likely can’t avoid driving in it. It’s not practical to stay home simply because it’s raining. However, is rain the most dangerous weather condition to drive in? You might be surprised at just how many car accidents rain causes every year.
Rain & Car Accident Statistics
The U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration reports that between the years of 2004-2013, there were 573,784 crashes, 228,196 people injured, and 2,732 people killed in car crashes caused by rain. Crashes caused by rain comprised 46% of all weather related car accidents; injuries caused by rain comprised 52% of all weather related injuries; and fatalities caused by rain comprised 47% of all weather related fatalities.
Snow and sleet, once presumed to be more dangerous than rain, only caused 210,341 crashes, 55,942 injuries, and 739 fatalities during that same time period. Only 17% of all weather related crashes and 13% of all injuries and fatalities during that time were caused by snow and sleet. Even when combined with the statistics for icy roads, winter weather conditions were half as dangerous as wet conditions across the nation.
Why Does Rain Affect Driving Ability So Much?
Rain creates dangerous driving conditions for several reasons. During heavy rains, a driver’s visibility is reduced significantly. The driver may only be able to see a few feet in front of the car, which also reduces reaction time. Additionally, water that pools in depressions in the road are the perfect formula for hydroplaning, where the car skids over the water and causes the driver to lose control of the vehicle. Pedestrians and bicyclists may react differently during the rain, darting out in front of traffic in order to get to a dry place quickly. Pedestrians wearing hoods or using umbrellas also have reduced visibility and may not see a car coming.
When to Contact a Car Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one have been injured in a car crash that occurred while it was raining, you may have a variety of legal options available to you. The costs of an accident are high, especially with vehicle damage, hospital bills, and lost wages, and you may be eligible for compensation if the collision was caused by the negligence of another driver.
Contact the Law Offices of Carl L. Brown today for a consultation to discuss your case in detail and to learn more about your rights to financial restitution as an injured individual. Call now at (559) 431-4400.