The winter months in Missouri bring beautiful snowfalls and chilly mornings, but they also bring significant driving hazards. At Sticklen & Sticklen, Personal Injury Attorneys, we want to ensure you are prepared to navigate the roads safely this season while understanding your legal rights in case of an accident.
Common Winter Driving Hazards
- Black Ice: Invisible patches of ice can cause vehicles to lose traction, leading to skids and accidents.
- Reduced Visibility: Snow, sleet, and fog can severely limit your ability to see other vehicles and road signs.
- Snow-Covered Roads: Accumulated snow can make roads slippery and challenging to navigate.
- Distracted or Inexperienced Drivers: Not all drivers adjust their behavior to winter conditions, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
Legal Rights After a Winter Accident
If you are involved in a winter-related accident, it’s essential to understand your legal rights:
- Proving Negligence: Drivers are expected to adjust their behavior to the conditions. If another driver’s negligence causes an accident, they may be held liable.
- Comparative Fault: Missouri follows a comparative fault rule, meaning your compensation can be affected by your degree of fault in the accident.
- Property Owner Responsibility: If a slip-and-fall accident occurs on poorly maintained property, you may have a valid claim against the property owner.
- Timely Filing: Missouri law limits the time you have to file a personal injury claim, so it’s essential to act quickly.
How Sticklen & Sticklen Can Help
At Sticklen & Sticklen, we specialize in advocating for accident victims in Joplin and Columbia, MO. If you’ve been injured due to a winter driving accident or hazardous property conditions, our experienced team is here to:
- Investigate your case thoroughly
- Negotiate with insurance companies
- Pursue maximum compensation for your injuries
Stay Safe This Season
While we hope you never need us, it’s always wise to drive cautiously and be prepared for Missouri’s unpredictable winter weather. Keep an emergency kit in your car, drive slowly, and avoid distractions to reduce the risk of accidents.
From all of us at Sticklen & Sticklen, Personal Injury Attorneys, Happy Holidays to our valued clients. We wish you a safe, joyful season and a blessed 2025!