In Buffalo, March is a month of drastic weather changes, which can drastically affect road conditions and lead to car accidents. As temperatures rise and fall, snow can melt, refreeze, or even change into rain, which increases the likelihood of hazardous driving situations. Understanding how these weather changes affect liability in car accident claims is essential for both drivers and passengers.
March Weather in Buffalo: A Rollercoaster Ride for Drivers 
March in Buffalo is known for its volatile weather, which often catches drivers off guard. The region experiences fluctuating temperatures that lead to a unique set of road conditions, from melting snow to freezing rain. For Buffalo drivers, this means that road conditions can change from one hour to the next, making it all the more important to stay vigilant while behind the wheel.
As the snow begins to melt during the day and temperatures drop at night, icy patches can form, making the roads slippery and dangerous. These conditions can lead to an increase in car accidents, especially on bridges, overpasses, and in areas where water accumulates and freezes quickly. With weather conditions that seem to change almost every day, Buffalo’s roads are prone to unpredictability, and with unpredictability comes the risk of accidents. Drivers who are caught off guard by black ice or sudden snow showers may find themselves involved in collisions, resulting in injuries and complicated liability situations.
Benjamin J.
Andrews
Partner
Robert
Maranto
Partner
Tom
Kotrys
Partner
Robert J.
Maranto, III
Attorney
Thanon
Rezvi
Attorney
Rea Marcelo
Roxas
Attorney
The Impact of Unpredictable Road Conditions on Car Accidents
One of the most significant challenges that drivers in Buffalo face during March is the unpredictable nature of road conditions. One minute, the sun may be shining, and the next, a snowstorm rolls in, making roads slick and hazardous. These rapid weather changes significantly increase the risk of car accidents, but they also complicate the process of determining liability. When accidents happen during such conditions, it’s important to understand how the weather affects both the driver’s responsibility and the extent to which they may be held liable.
- Black Ice and Reduced Traction: As temperatures hover just below freezing, black ice forms on the roads. This is a common hazard during March, and it can be nearly impossible for drivers to detect until it’s too late. Black ice causes cars to lose traction quickly, often leading to collisions with other vehicles, pedestrians, or stationary objects. If an accident occurs due to black ice, liability can become a complex issue, especially if both parties were navigating dangerous roads at the same time. In such cases, evidence like weather reports and witness statements will be crucial to establish fault.
- Rain and Snowmelt: During March, warm spells are often followed by freezing temperatures, which can cause rainwater or melted snow to refreeze overnight. This creates a hazardous mix of slush and ice on the roads, especially in the early mornings and late evenings. Roads that appear clear and dry during the day may become slick and dangerous overnight, which can result in accidents when drivers do not adjust to changing conditions. In situations like these, the law will generally hold drivers accountable for not adjusting to the changing weather.
- Visibility Issues: Visibility is another major issue for Buffalo drivers in March. Heavy snow showers, fog, and low-light conditions can impair a driver’s ability to see other vehicles, traffic signals, or road hazards. When driving in such conditions, motorists must take extra precautions, including using headlights, reducing speed, and maintaining a greater distance between vehicles. Failing to do so may increase the likelihood of accidents and shift more responsibility onto the driver who did not take these precautions.
The team is very personable, patient and empathetic with their clients. They are upfront with you and will explain the entire process with you, they never lead you to believe otherwise, they tell you like it is and will not sell you a million dollar dream. Trust in Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC, they work for you and he looks out for your best interest.”
- Jane D.
How Changing Weather Affects Liability in Car Accidents
While March weather in Buffalo can create hazardous driving conditions, it is important to understand how this impacts the determination of liability in the event of a car accident. In the state of New York, including Buffalo, drivers are required to adjust their driving behavior based on road conditions. This means that in weather-related accidents, the driver’s ability to adapt to changing conditions plays a significant role in determining who is at fault.
- Comparative Negligence in Buffalo: New York follows a comparative negligence rule when determining liability in accidents. This means that even if both drivers are partially at fault for the accident, their respective contributions to the crash will be taken into account. For instance, if one driver failed to reduce their speed despite poor weather conditions, they may be found partially or fully responsible for the accident, depending on the extent of their negligence. On the other hand, if another driver was navigating dangerous roads in a cautious and responsible manner, their share of liability may be reduced.
- Duty of Care and Adjusting for Weather Conditions: Drivers have a legal obligation to operate their vehicles in a manner that ensures the safety of themselves and others on the road. In March, when the roads are more likely to be affected by fluctuating temperatures and precipitation, drivers must adjust their speed, use their headlights, and be extra cautious around bridges and overpasses. If a driver fails to exercise this duty of care and causes an accident, they may be held fully liable for the damages.
- Insurance and Weather-Related Accidents: Insurance companies play a crucial role in determining liability in accidents caused by weather conditions. They will typically examine several factors, including weather reports, accident history, and evidence of negligence, to determine how liability should be divided between the parties involved. In cases where weather conditions contributed to the accident but both parties were at fault, insurance companies may divide liability according to the degree of negligence demonstrated by each driver.
Related Videos
Should I Take The First Settlement Offer?
Steps to File a Personal Injury Claim
What You Should Do After a March Weather-Related Accident in Buffalo
If you’re involved in a car accident caused by weather conditions in Buffalo, there are several steps you should take to protect yourself and ensure that your legal rights are preserved. Whether or not you are at fault, it’s important to act quickly and document everything related to the accident.
- Document the Weather Conditions: As soon as you can, take photographs or video footage of the scene, especially if there are visible signs of hazardous road conditions. For example, if you are involved in a crash due to black ice or a sudden snowstorm, photographs showing the icy roads or the snowstorm may be essential evidence to support your case.
- Call the Police and Report the Accident: In Buffalo, it’s crucial to report all accidents, especially those that involve hazardous weather. Law enforcement will create a report that includes details about the weather conditions at the time of the crash, which can be used in your case. This report will help clarify the role that the weather played in the accident, and it may reduce your liability if you were driving responsibly.
- Consult with an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer: When weather conditions are a factor in an accident, the complexities of determining liability increase. It’s vital to consult with a car accident lawyer, such as the attorneys at Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC, who specialize in weather-related accidents. They can guide you through the claims process, help gather the necessary evidence, and work to ensure that your rights are protected during this challenging time.
Verdicts & Settlements
Staying Safe and Understanding Liability
March weather in Buffalo is notorious for causing dangerous driving conditions. From icy roads to sudden snow showers and poor visibility, drivers must exercise caution when navigating the region during this time of year. However, even when weather conditions are to blame for an accident, determining liability can still be complex. It’s essential for drivers to adjust their behavior based on road conditions and to be aware of how comparative negligence can impact their case.
If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident caused by March weather in Buffalo, don’t hesitate to contact Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC for assistance. Our experienced team can help you navigate the complexities of car accident claims and ensure that your rights are protected.