Who Is at Fault If Snow Flies Off a Car in Wisconsin?
Winter driving in Wisconsin comes with added responsibilities. One common question we hear is what happens if snow or ice flies off a vehicle and causes a crash.
Let’s break it down in a simple way.
The Legal Trivia Question Answered
If a driver fails to clear snow or ice from their car roof and it flies off, the driver may be at fault. This is especially true if the snow or ice causes another vehicle to crash.
In most cases, the weather itself is not to blame. It is also usually not considered an “act of God.” Responsibility often falls on the driver who did not properly clear their vehicle.
Why Clearing Your Car Roof Matters
Snow and ice on your roof can become dangerous debris once you start driving. When it flies off, it can block another driver’s view or strike their vehicle.
This situation is similar to leaving an object on top of your car. If a briefcase falls off and causes a crash, the driver is responsible. The same logic applies if cargo is not secured.
Real Examples We’ve Seen
We have handled cases where drivers failed to secure items properly. In some situations, contractors left materials loose in truck beds. When those materials flew out and caused injuries, the driver was held responsible.
We’ve successfully handled claims like these before. The key issue is preventable negligence.
Winter Safety Reminder for Wisconsin Drivers
Wisconsin winters are tough, but safety still comes first. Snow brushes and ice scrapers are inexpensive and easy to use. Many hardware stores carry them, and they only take a few minutes to do the job.
Clearing your car protects you and everyone else on the road.
Injured by Flying Snow or Ice?
If snow or ice from another vehicle caused your crash, you may have legal options. These cases depend on the facts, but responsibility often lies with the driver who failed to clear their vehicle.
Call us to talk through your situation and learn what steps to take next.