Junaid Afzal
Paralegal- Personal Injury
The winter months can bring beautiful snow-covered landscapes, but they also pose significant risks for drivers on icy roads. Whether you’re commuting to work, heading to visit family, or simply running errands, icy conditions can make even the most routine drives treacherous. Wilkins Solicitors are committed to helping clients with vehicle damage claims, we understand how crucial it is to stay informed about your rights and responsibilities when accidents occur during the winter.
Before you even hit the road, it’s important to prepare both your vehicle and yourself for the challenges that icy conditions present. Here are some tips to help you drive safely:
- Prepare Your Vehicle, tyre pressure, windscreen washer and de-icer.
- Drive Slowly and Smoothly, ice can make stopping distance up to 10 times longer.
- Avoid Sudden Movements, no sharp turns or abrupt braking.
- Be Aware of Black Ice, often invisible to the naked eye, reduce speed.
What to Do if You’re Involved in a Collision on Icy Roads
Even the most cautious driver can find themselves involved in an accident due to icy conditions. If you’ve been in a collision or your vehicle has sustained damage from icy roads, here are the steps you should take:
- Ensure Your Safety
First and foremost, check for any injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 999 for emergency services. If you’re able, move your vehicle out of traffic to avoid further accidents.
- Document the Scene
If you can safely do so, take photos of the damage to your vehicle, the surrounding area, and any contributing factors (e.g., ice patches on the road). This documentation will be crucial when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action.
- Gather Information
Exchange details with other drivers involved in the accident, including names, contact information, and insurance details. It’s also helpful to take note of any witnesses to the incident. If there are any traffic cameras in the area, try to find out whether footage might be available.
- Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the accident.
- Seek Legal Advice
If the accident was caused by another driver’s negligence, you might be entitled to compensation. For example, if a driver failed to adapt to the icy conditions or did not maintain their vehicle properly, you could have a case for a claim. We can assist you with any personal injury or vehicle damage claim in providing valuable advice in determining liability and recovering your losses.
Vehicle Damage Claims: What You Need to Know
If your vehicle has been damaged in a winter accident, whether caused by icy roads or another driver’s failure to adapt to conditions, you may be eligible for compensation. Here’s what to consider when making a vehicle damage claim:
Understanding Liability
In the UK, the driver who is responsible for an accident may be held liable for the damage. This could be another motorist who failed to drive safely on icy roads, or it might be a local authority if poor road conditions (e.g., ungritted roads) contributed to the accident.
The Role of Insurance
If another driver is found at fault, their insurance may cover the damages to your vehicle, but this can sometimes take time. If you’re dealing with a large repair bill, it’s essential to understand the steps involved in claiming through your insurance.
Repair Costs and Compensation
Vehicle repairs can be expensive, particularly if the damage is extensive. If you’re not at fault, you could be entitled to compensation that covers not only the cost of repairs but also any other losses incurred as a result of the accident, such as lost wages or the cost of a hire car. We can ensure your car is inspected by expert vehicle assessors so the repair cost is well in line with today’s vehicle market, whether your vehicle is deemed repairable or a total loss.
How We Can Help
At Wilkins we specialise in assisting clients with vehicle damage claims, We understand how stressful and overwhelming these situations can be, and we are here to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Our team of experts can provide the legal support you need, from handling insurance disputes to pursuing personal injury claims. If you’ve been involved in an accident, contact us today on 01296 424 681.
