Boston Injury Lawyer Blog
Winter in Massachusetts brings unique challenges to drivers, with icy roads, snow glare, and hidden dangers creating hazardous conditions. A recent incident in Brookfield underscores how dangerous these conditions can become. A large sheet of ice flew off the top of a passing tractor-trailer, smashing into a van and leaving the driver injured. This terrifying event highlights how preventable winter weather accidents can be—and why all drivers must take precautions to ensure safety on the road.
Understanding the causes of winter-related car accidents and taking proactive measures can significantly reduce the risk of injury. Whether it’s clearing snow from your vehicle or recognizing the dangers of reduced visibility, awareness and action are critical during colder months.
Unique Causes of Winter Weather Accidents
Winter driving introduces conditions that are absent in warmer months. While snow and ice on roads are the most commonly recognized hazards, other factors also contribute to accidents.
Flying Ice and Snow Debris
As the Brookfield case shows, snow and ice falling from vehicles can cause catastrophic injuries or fatalities. When drivers fail to clear their cars correctly, chunks of ice can break loose at high speeds and strike other cars. Massachusetts law requires drivers to remove snow and ice from vehicles to prevent such incidents, but compliance is not always guaranteed.
Large vehicles, such as trucks and tractor-trailers, present an even greater risk. Due to their size, they can accumulate significant amounts of ice and snow on their roofs. When this debris detaches, it can act as a projectile, potentially causing severe damage or even death.
Snow Glare
Snow glare is another major hazard, particularly on sunny days following a storm. When sunlight reflects off freshly fallen snow, it can temporarily blind drivers, reducing reaction times and increasing the likelihood of collisions. Sunglasses or polarized lenses can help combat this issue, but drivers must remain cautious, especially during peak daylight hours.
Black Ice and Slippery Roads
Black ice is nearly invisible and can form even when temperatures hover just above freezing. Drivers often underestimate its presence, leading to sudden loss of control. Massachusetts roads, especially bridges and overpasses, are particularly prone to black ice formation due to their exposure to colder air from above and below.
Hidden Dangers Beneath Snow
Piled or drifted snow can obscure obstacles like curbs, potholes, or stalled vehicles. Drivers unfamiliar with a particular road may encounter these hidden hazards, resulting in crashes or vehicle damage.
Massachusetts Law and Driver Responsibility
Massachusetts law mandates that drivers take reasonable steps to ensure their vehicles are free from hazards that could endanger others. Specifically, Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 85, Section 36 requires drivers to remove snow and ice from their cars before hitting the road. Failure to comply can result in fines and civil liability for injuries or damages in cases where debris causes harm.
In the Brookfield case, the truck driver claimed they were unaware of the falling ice, but this does not absolve them of responsibility. Under the law, drivers must take proactive measures to secure their vehicles and prevent accidents. Even a $200 citation, as issued in this instance, cannot undo the harm caused by negligence.
Preventing Winter Weather Accidents
Preventing winter-related accidents requires both individual responsibility and community awareness. Simple precautions can significantly reduce the risks posed by winter hazards:
Clear Your Vehicle: Always remove snow and ice from your car, including the roof, hood, windows, and lights. This improves visibility and ensures debris won’t detach while driving.
Use Proper Tires: Winter tires provide better traction on icy or snowy roads. Investing in high-quality tires suited to Massachusetts winters can make a significant difference.
Drive Cautiously: Reduce speed and increase the distance between your car and the vehicle ahead. Black ice and slippery conditions require longer stopping distances, so leave plenty of room to react.
Combat Snow Glare: Keep sunglasses in your car and use sun visors to block glare. Adjusting your driving schedule to avoid peak sunlight can also help reduce risks.
Watch for Hidden Dangers: Stay alert for obstacles concealed by snow, such as curbs or debris. Familiarize yourself with road conditions, especially after a storm.
Why Accountability Matters
While individual precautions are essential, holding negligent drivers accountable is equally important. The Brookfield incident highlights how preventable winter accidents can be when drivers take responsibility for clearing their vehicles. Had the truck driver performed a routine inspection and removed ice from their trailer, the victim’s injuries could have been avoided entirely.
Accountability extends beyond just issuing fines. Victims of accidents caused by flying ice or other forms of negligence may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Filing a claim can help cover these costs and convey that such negligence will not be tolerated.
For example, gathering evidence is critical if you are injured by ice falling from a vehicle. Photographs of the damage, witness statements, and police reports strengthen your case. Consulting with an attorney ensures that your claim is handled effectively, and you receive the compensation you deserve.
Don’t Take the Insurance Company’s Word, Speak with Out Boston Injury Lawyer First
If you or someone you care about was injured in a bad-weather accident, the experienced attorneys at Altman & Altman, LLP, can help you pursue a claim against the at-fault party. While the weather is something no one can control, drivers do control their own actions, and anyone can slow down when the weather calls for it. At Altman & Altman, our dedicated Boston injury lawyers have decades of experience fighting on behalf of accident victims and know what it takes to maximize your recovery. Call us today at 800.481.6199 or contact us through our secure online form to schedule your free consultation. Let us help you secure the compensation you deserve.
