Truck Accidents in Adverse Weather

Truck drivers are expected to comply with all traffic laws, abide by regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA),¹ and to drive in a reasonably safe manner. What is considered to be “reasonably safe” can change depending on different factors, however. For example, safe driving behaviors on an open highway may not necessarily be safe in heavy traffic or in a construction zone. One important factor truck drivers must always consider when driving safely is the weather.

Rain, ice, fog, snow, and sleet can all make roads extremely dangerous. Truck drivers may drive through many different areas of the country and sometimes may experience several different weather patterns in one trip. This means they need to be prepared for any type of adverse weather and also must adjust their driving based n changing weather.

Unfortunately, truck drivers do not always slow down or take necessary precautions in adverse weather. They are driving the largest, heaviest vehicles on the road and, therefore, they may have more control than drivers of small passenger vehicles. This does not make it safe to drive faster than other traffic or to follow too closely. Instead, truck drivers should be well aware of what driving behaviors are prudent in adverse weather and what could lead to a collision. If a driver is operating a truck at speeds too fast for the weather conditions, they can be found negligent even if they were traveling within the posted speed limit. Negligent truck drivers and their employers can be held accountable for the losses of victims of accidents that may occur.

Schedule a free consultation with a Philadelphia truck accident attorney

Commercial truck cases are often challenging, as trucking corporations have attorneys and insurance companies working to dispute your claims and avoid liability. The Levin Firm has the resources to take on these companies to hold truck drivers and their employers accountable for their negligent actions so that you can fully recover financially for your losses. Consultations are always free of charge, so please call us at 215-825-5183 so we can get started on your case.

¹https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/regulations