Driving in the winter can be hazardous and unpredictable, especially on icy roads. It is easy to lose control of a vehicle if you hit a patch of ice. These hazardous conditions can affect drivers even when they are cautious.
Large trucks are especially vulnerable on icy roads. Their size and weight make stopping more difficult, creating conditions that can lead to a chain reaction involving several vehicles. For anyone impacted by Olive Branch truck accidents involving icy roads, it can be a frightening experience. What often follows is the aftermath of managing medical treatment and communicating with insurance companies. Our 18-wheeler accident attorneys at the Law Office of David E. Gordon & Elissa M. Coombs are here to help.
Challenges Unique to Truck Crashes Involving Icy Roads
Winter weather in Olive Branch can create dangerous driving conditions, with freezing rain sometimes turning local roadways into slick hazards that increase the likelihood of truck crashes. While any driver can struggle on icy roads, truck accidents in these conditions often present unique challenges.
For example, some roads in the area may not be salted or cleared right away, which increases stopping distances for large commercial vehicles. Intersections along busy routes, such as Goodman Road or Hacks Cross Road, can become particularly dangerous when visibility reduces and the pavement ices over.
These factors can make it more difficult to determine liability. In some cases, responsibility may lie with the truck driver due to speeding or failing to adjust to icy conditions. If the vehicle was not properly maintained, the trucking company could be at fault. Additionally, local agencies may be responsible if they did not address a known hazard in a reasonable timeframe.
Steps To Take After an Icy Road Truck Accident
After a collision with a truck on icy roads in Olive Branch, safety comes first. If possible, the people involved should move to a safe location and check on others. They should then call 911 to report the crash and request medical assistance if needed.
Gathering helpful information while at the scene can also assist the case moving forward. For example, a person could:
- Take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries
- Exchange names, insurance information, and contact details with the other drivers
- Ask for witness statements and collect their contact information
- Request a copy of the police report when it is available
Even if the injuries seem minor, it is important to consult with a doctor. Some conditions, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not be obvious right away.
How Can Our Attorneys Help?
Wrecks involving trucks on iced-over roads in Olive Branch can become complicated fast. There may be multiple parties involved, and insurance companies often work hard to minimize payouts. Having a skilled legal team, such as David and Elissa, can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. They will:
- Investigate what caused the accident
- Review weather and road reports to strengthen the claim
- Handle conversations and negotiations with insurance companies
- Fight for fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering
By taking these steps on your behalf, our lawyers can reduce the stress of the legal process and allow you to focus on healing after a truck accident.
Talk to an Olive Branch Attorney About Taking Legal Action Over Your Icy Weather Truck Crash
For Olive Branch truck accidents involving icy roads, working with an attorney means not having to face the aftermath alone. The Law Office of David E. Gordon & Elissa M. Coombs offers free consultations to discuss your case, explain your options, and help you understand the next steps.
Call us today to speak with an experienced semi-truck accident attorney who can guide you through the process and work to protect your future.
