Winter storms in Fresno and the Central Valley are less about snow and ice and more about heavy rain and fog. While we might not face the same icy conditions as other parts of the country, wet and slippery roads after storms still create dangerous driving conditions that often lead to crashes. If you’ve been injured in a collision caused by slick roads, you may wonder whether the city or local government shares any responsibility for your accident.
At Fowler | Helsel | Vogt, we help injured drivers understand their legal rights and pursue compensation when dangerous road conditions contribute to crashes. Knowing when and how a city can be held liable is key to protecting your interests after a winter weather accident.
How Wet Roads Increase Crash Risks
Rain and fog reduce traction and visibility, making controlling your vehicle and avoiding hazards harder. Even a small amount of water on asphalt can cause hydroplaning or slipping, especially if road surfaces are worn or poorly maintained.
In Fresno, drivers face challenges like:
- Flooded intersections
- Poor drainage is causing standing water
- Slippery leaves and debris on the roadway
- Reduced visibility from fog or heavy rain
These conditions require extra caution, but accidents are more likely when the city fails to maintain safe roads.
When Can the City Be Held Responsible?
Cities are responsible for keeping roads safe, fixing hazards, clearing drains, and putting up warning signs. If they don’t and someone gets hurt, they may be held legally responsible.
Examples of city responsibility might include:
- Neglected potholes or cracked pavement that worsen slippery conditions
- Blocked or poorly designed drainage, causing flooding or ice patches
- Missing or obscured warning signs near hazards
- Failure to clear debris or fallen branches after storms
However, holding a city accountable is often complex. Governments have certain protections, and claims usually require proving that the town knew—or should have known—about the dangerous condition and didn’t act in a reasonable time.
What You Should Do After a Winter Weather Crash
If you’re injured in a crash caused by wet or icy roads, here are important steps to protect your rights:
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, get checked out by a healthcare professional.
- Report the Accident: Contact law enforcement and request an official report documenting the conditions and cause.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of road conditions, any visible hazards, skid marks, and your vehicle damage.
- Collect Witness Information: Get their contact details if others saw the crash or dangerous conditions.
- Contact an Experienced Injury Attorney: Before speaking with insurance companies or government agencies, get legal advice from a team experienced in roadway liability cases.
How Fowler | Helsel | Vogt Can Help
Claims against cities and municipalities require thorough investigation and substantial evidence. At Fowler | Helsel | Vogt, we work with experts to evaluate road conditions, review maintenance records, and build a case that shows government negligence contributed to your crash.
We understand the frustration and uncertainty after an accident in hazardous weather. Our team is dedicated to helping Fresno drivers get the compensation they deserve for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Don’t Let Dangerous Roads Leave You With No Help
Winter storms may be beyond anyone’s control, but dangerous roads are often preventable. If you’ve been hurt in a crash caused by wet or icy streets, contact Fowler | Helsel | Vogt for a free consultation. We’ll listen to your story, explain your rights, and help you take the proper steps toward recovery.