Winter Weather’s Impact on Car Accidents and Injuries

By Merk & Gile Law

With winter weather upon the tristate area, snowfall, ice, and below freezing temperatures are becoming increasingly more common. These treacherous conditions appear on roads, sidewalks, stairs, and parking lots making the surfaces increasingly slick. The slick conditions increase slip and fall accidents, as well as motor vehicle accidents in the Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati area.

After a slip and fall injury you should first go to a doctor, even if you think your injury is relatively minor. This is important for several reasons. One, you may be injured more severely than you think, because some symptoms of injury do not appear until days or weeks later. Another reason for seeking medical help is to document the accident. Have pictures taken of both your injuries and the accident scene, if possible. And keep copies of all medical bills. If an accident report was made, obtain a copy of it and seek help from an attorney to assess the best course of action for you to take.

As for motor vehicle accidents that result from hazardous winter conditions, one out of four motor vehicle accidents is weather-related due to ice, snow, sleet, or slush on the roadways. Ways to avoid becoming a statistic in these winter weather crashes would be to slow down, take your time, keep your distance, be extra cautious, and if possible stay home. However, if you are involved in a winter weather caused motor vehicle accident, stay calm, take pictures of the scene, call the police, and remain safe. 

After the accident, you should go to a doctor, even if you think your injury is relatively minor because your injuries may be more severe than you think with symptoms developing a few days later. Another reason for seeking medical help is to document the accident. And if an accident report was made, obtain a copy of it and seek help from Merk & Gile Law to assess the best course of action.

Finally, with the treacherous winter conditions increasing, remember to be cautious and vigilant when out in hazardous conditions. If you do need to venture out in the winter weather and happen to get injured in a slip and fall accident or motor vehicle accident make sure to contact Merk & Gile Law to have your case assessed in order to determine the best course of action.

If you ever need help or have any questions do not hesitate to reach out to Merk & Gile Law at (513) 481-5678. 

We are located at 639 Washington Avenue, Newport, KY.