Accidents caused by extreme weather conditions are more common than one might think, especially in areas like Southeast New Mexico and West Texas, where strong winds frequently occur. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) highlights the significant role hazardous weather plays in traffic accidents. Approximately 21% of all motor vehicle crashes in the United States are attributed to adverse weather conditions, equating to nearly 1.2 million incidents each year out of a total of about 5.9 million crashes. Hazardous weather conditions are a stark reminder of how weather, particularly high winds, can transform a regular drive into a risky venture. Driving in windy conditions presents unique challenges that require heightened caution and preparation.
In the following blog, we will examine the dangers of windy weather, offer practical tips for safe driving, and explain how a motor vehicle accident attorney may be able to help if you’ve been injured in a crash.
Why Is Windy Weather Dangerous for Drivers?
Driving in windy weather can be more hazardous than many people realize. High winds bring unique challenges that require extra caution and awareness to ensure safety on the road. Knowing the risks associated with windy conditions can help drivers better prepare and respond effectively.
When wind speeds rise, drivers are at risk for the following reasons:
- Loss of Vehicle Control: Strong gusts can make it harder to steer your car, especially when driving over open roads or bridges. High-profile vehicles like trucks, vans, and buses are particularly vulnerable to tipping or losing control.
- Reduced Visibility: Winds often kick up debris, dust, and dirt, significantly impairing visibility. This is especially dangerous in areas prone to dust storms, like Roswell, New Mexico. Reduced visibility increases the risk of collisions on highways and other high-speed roads.
- Falling Objects or Debris: Windy conditions may cause loose branches, street signs, or other debris to obstruct the road, creating unexpected hazards that make it tougher to drive safely.
- Multi-vehicle Accidents: Once a single vehicle crashes, it can quickly turn into a chain reaction. Recently, a Rankin EMS vehicle was involved in a separate high-speed crash while transporting a victim from the initial accident (source).
By understanding these risks, drivers can make informed decisions to mitigate the dangers of windy conditions. Adjusting speed, maintaining focus, and staying alert to sudden changes in the environment are essential practices for staying safe during inclement weather.
Tips for Safe Driving in Windy Conditions
Driving during extreme wind can be challenging and potentially dangerous. Strong gusts can affect vehicle control, visibility, and the ability to respond to sudden hazards. By taking proactive steps, you can better prepare for and manage these conditions and protect yourself and others on the road.
To minimize the risks of driving in extreme wind, follow these precautions:
- Check Weather Alerts Before You Travel: Before heading out, review any high-wind warnings or advisories issued by the National Weather Service. If winds are particularly severe in your area, postpone travel.
- Drive Slowly and Maintain Distance: Slowing down gives you more reaction time if the wind forces you to adjust your steering or avoid debris. Keep a safe distance from other vehicles to reduce the possibility of collisions.
- Use Extra Caution Around Large Vehicles: Large trucks, buses, and vehicles towing cargo are especially susceptible to tipping in high wind conditions. Avoid driving beside them whenever possible.
- Avoid Exposed Areas: If feasible, plan a route that steers clear of exposed locations like bridges or open highways, which are more susceptible to extreme winds.
- Turn on Your Headlights: Use your headlights whenever visibility is reduced by wind and dust. Remember, this helps both you and other drivers see better.
- Maintain a Firm Grip on the Wheel: Keep both hands on the wheel to control your vehicle if sudden gusts hit. If driving feels unsafe, pull over to a secure area and wait for the winds to subside.
Implementing these steps can help drivers ensure their safety—and the safety of others—during heavy winds. Staying informed and using caution go a long way toward reducing the risks associated with high-wind conditions. Despite your best efforts to stay safe, accidents can still happen. If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident due to extreme weather, finding an experienced car accident attorney to help you navigate the challenges ahead is key.
Common Negligent Parties in a Weather-Related Accident
If you or a loved one have already been affected by weather-related accidents, consider seeking legal advice immediately. An attorney can help you navigate the aftermath of a car accident as you work to recover from your injuries. When it comes to weather-related accidents, establishing liability hinges on identifying negligence. Drivers and other parties are responsible for acting in a manner that reduces the risk of accidents, even in adverse weather conditions. Working with an attorney to help you identify whether a negligent party contributed to your weather-related accident could be crucial to aiding in your recovery.
Any of the following parties could be connected to your accident:
- Negligent Drivers: Drivers must adjust their driving behavior according to road and weather conditions. This includes slowing down, increasing the following distance, and using headlights as needed. Failing to take these precautions can lead to an accident, and such failure is often considered negligence. It’s important to note that bad weather is not an excuse for unsafe driving—drivers remain responsible for operating their vehicles cautiously at all times.
- Road Maintenance Authorities: Poorly maintained roads can exacerbate the challenges posed by bad weather. Issues such as unaddressed potholes, inadequate drainage, or failure to properly remove snow and ice can lead to hazardous conditions. When accidents occur as a direct result of these problems, the entity responsible for maintaining those roads may be held partially liable.
- Vehicle Owners: Vehicle owners may also bear some responsibility for a weather-related accident, especially if their vehicle has mechanical faults that contribute to the incident. For example, failing brakes or worn-out tires can amplify the dangers of bad weather conditions. Depending on the jurisdiction, a vehicle owner’s negligence in maintaining their vehicle could make them liable for damages caused in an accident.
Understanding who may be at fault in a weather-related accident requires careful consideration of all contributing factors. Drivers, maintenance authorities, and vehicle owners all have an obligation to ensure road safety, regardless of the weather.
Helping You Travel Safely
Extreme weather conditions may be beyond your control, but taking precautions can help reduce safety risks. The next time strong winds sweep across the road you’re on, remember the tips above and adjust your driving accordingly. At Crow Law Firm, we are dedicated to serving clients throughout Southeast New Mexico and West Texas. If you’ve been involved in a crash, don’t wait—connect with our experienced legal team today to protect your rights. Contact us online today to schedule a consultation. Stay safe and drive smart!