Florida drivers should be cautious of inclement weather conditions. Poor weather can play a significant role in causing a tractor-trailer collision; however, it does not mean that a truck driver cannot be partially or fully responsible for one occurring.

Heavy rain is the primary weather condition that can make the roads more susceptible to truck accidents involving bad weather in Wesley Chapel. In stormy conditions, it may be difficult for truckers to see more than a few hundred feet in front of them. It can also be harder for a truck driver to judge their speed or the speed of nearby vehicles. If other cars are on the road, a hydroplaning truck can easily slide into their path, resulting in catastrophic damage.

When you or a loved one suffers injuries in this type of wreck, you should immediately contact a Wesley Chapel truck crash attorney at Distasio Law Firm for dedicated legal assistance with your case.

Tractor-Trailers Are More Difficult to Control in Poor Weather

Truck drivers are more likely to have difficulty operating large semis during poor weather due to the sheer size and weight of the vehicles. Tractor-trailers are longer and heavier than cars, making their ability to stop different. It takes a longer distance for a truck to come to a stop. Therefore, truckers need to be extra cautious and pay close attention to the roads around them. They must begin braking much earlier and drive at slower speeds than cars in the same weather conditions.

How Dangerous Weather Impacts Liability for Truck Wrecks

Bad weather conditions should not excuse a trucker from being at fault for a Wesley Chapel truck accident. The truck driver and all other drivers are responsible for being aware of the road and weather conditions. While driving in dangerous weather can be more challenging, it should not affect the determination of liability for an 18-wheeler collision. If a trucker fails to pay attention to the road because of poor weather, they are still responsible for any resulting accidents.

Collecting Evidence to Prove Weather Conditions Caused the Crash

Evidence that could be used to establish that inclement weather conditions caused a semi-truck wreck in Wesley Chapel after the weather subsided includes:

  • Photographs taken at the scene
  • Meteorology forecasts for the day
  • Eyewitness accounts of the weather conditions

Injured parties must document as much evidence as possible at the crash scene by taking pictures and remembering in detail what the weather was like to support the claim that bad weather conditions played a role in the accident.

Steps to Take to Stay Safe on the Road During Inclement Weather

Drivers should follow standard driving safety measures to protect themselves from weather-related accidents. Before driving, they should be aware of the current weather conditions and ensure they have the necessary driving skills to navigate those conditions. While on the road, drivers should remain alert and drive defensively by paying attention to their surroundings as well as adjusting their speed and following distance accordingly.

Contact a Wesley Chapel Attorney Following Truck Accidents Involving Bad Weather

If you were involved in a truck accident involving bad weather in Wesley Chapel, you should seek legal help from an experienced attorney who has handled similar cases.

A skilled lawyer like Scott Distasio could collect and present relevant evidence to demonstrate how the weather contributed to the accident and establish the other party’s responsibility. At Distasio Law Firm, our team of knowledgeable legal professionals could help you navigate the legal process and seek appropriate compensation for your losses.

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Our main office is here in Downtown Tampa, Florida in the Channelside neighborhood. Office in Wesley Chapel and Largo are available by appointment only.

Distasio Law Firm
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  • Truck Accidents Involving Bad Weather in Wesley Chapel
    Location
    3848 Flatiron Loop Suite 101-6
    Wesley Chapel FL  33544