Taking your motorcycle out for a cruise on a warm, sunny day is one of the greatest benefits of owning a bike. However, as any Roanoke resident knows, Virginia’s changing weather can quickly turn clear skies into clouds, rain, wind, or even hail, while the heights of summer can bring extreme heat waves. These adverse weather conditions will easily turn a weekend joyride into a much more dangerous endeavor, thanks to slippery roads, reduced visibility, and longer braking times.
As the risk of injury or death is 30 times greater in motorcycle accidents than in cars, motorcycle riders must be particularly alert when riding during poor weather conditions. If you are unfortunately injured in an accident, you are likely concerned with read here: How does Virginia's weather impact motorcycle accident claims in Roanoke?. Read this guide to learn about the role weather plays in motorcycle crashes, how it impacts motorcycle claims, and why you should work with an experienced attorney when filing your claim.
The Role of Weather in Motorcycle Accidents
No matter how experienced of a rider you are or how carefully you drive, certain weather conditions are more likely to cause accidents. Rain makes roads slippery, making it harder to stop and reducing stability. Snow and ice, even in small amounts, are a serious hazard for riders as they can cause cars as well as motorcycles to lose control and crash. Rain, snow, and fog all reduce visibility, making accidents more likely.
Wind and extreme heat can also cause dangerous riding conditions. High winds, particularly on bridges, can push motorcycles and smaller cars off course, causing an accident. Heat doesn’t directly cause an impact but does increase rider fatigue and dehydration, which can contribute to a crash.
How Virginia’s Weather Impacts Roanoke Motorcycle Claims
Determining who is liable in Virginia after a car or motorcycle crash isn’t easy, as there are many factors that impact fault. These factors include the behavior of both drivers, road maintenance, and vehicle conditions. Weather adds another variable to the equation. Some insurance carriers will try to use weather conditions to reduce or deny claims after an accident. They will argue that the injured person wasn’t driving safely based on the conditions and failed to take precautions.
If your motorcycle accident is caused by poor weather, your claim will need evidence directly linking it to the accident. Evidence for weather-related claims includes pictures of the scene, video footage if possible, witness statements, the police report, and the official weather report documenting the rain, fog, sleet, or other adverse weather.
The Benefit of Hiring a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Insurance companies don’t like paying claims and will have a team of lawyers arguing that you’re not entitled to full compensation for your accident. Hiring an experienced, qualified motorcycle lawyer is the best step you can take to support your claim. Your lawyer will investigate your accident, collect all relevant evidence, build a strong case for your claim, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and provide guidance and advice throughout the process.
Having legal representation on your side is crucial when filing a claim for a weather-related motorcycle accident. They will understand the role weather played in your accident and how that impacts your claim and help get you the full compensation you deserve.
