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Winter in NEPA: How Snow and Ice Complicate Car Accident Liability

Winter in Northeastern Pennsylvania isn’t just a season, it’s a fact of life. 

Snow-covered roads, black ice, and sudden whiteout conditions make everyday driving more dangerous, even for the most careful drivers. Unfortunately, winter weather also leads to a sharp increase in serious car accidents across NEPA. 

At Piazza Law, we’ve seen how these crashes impact families long after the snow melts.

Are Winter Accidents ‘No One’s’ Fault?

One of the biggest misconceptions about winter car accidents is that no one can be held responsible because “the roads were bad.” In reality, snow and ice don’t automatically eliminate liability. Drivers are still expected to adjust their behavior to the conditions.

Speeding, following too closely, failing to clear snow and ice from a vehicle, or driving on worn tires can all turn hazardous weather into negligence. Even in winter, drivers have a legal duty to operate their vehicles safely. When they don’t, they can be held accountable.

Who May Be Liable in a Winter Crash?

Winter accidents often involve more than just two drivers. Depending on the circumstances, liability may extend to:

  • Another driver who failed to slow down or lost control due to careless driving
  • Commercial drivers or trucking companies that didn’t properly maintain vehicles or meet safety standards
  • Municipalities or property owners responsible for poorly maintained or untreated roads and parking areas

Determining fault in winter crashes requires experience, investigation, and a deep understanding of Pennsylvania law, especially when insurance companies try to shift blame to the weather.

Why Winter Claims Are More Complicated

Insurance companies often argue that icy conditions were unavoidable, using the weather as an excuse to reduce or deny compensation. At Piazza Law, we know better. With more than 85 years of combined legal experience, our team works with accident reconstruction experts, reviews road conditions, and gathers evidence quickly to build strong cases for our clients.

We’ve recovered millions for injured Pennsylvanians by refusing to accept “it was just the weather” as an answer.

As a family-run law firm, we understand how winter accidents affect entire households, not just the injured person. In close-knit communities like NEPA, when one family is hurting, it ripples outward. That’s why we take every case personally and fight for our clients as if they were our own.

Your Story, Our Voice

If you or a loved one has been injured in a winter car accident, don’t let snow and ice stand in the way of justice. Call Piazza Law today. We’ll help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation your family deserves.

The Leading Causes of Truck Accidents in Pennsylvania — And How to Protect Yourself

Trucking accidents are some of the most devastating crashes on Pennsylvania roads. 

With thousands of large trucks traveling across I-81, I-80, and other major highways, accidents involving semis and commercial vehicles are unfortunately common. Understanding the biggest risks can help drivers stay safe and know their rights if the worst happens. 

Top Causes of Trucking Accidents 

Driver Fatigue

Federal law limits driving hours, but some truckers push beyond their limits, leading to dangerous drowsy driving. 

Speeding & Reckless Driving

Large trucks need more stopping distance. When truckers speed or follow too closely, catastrophic rear-end collisions can occur. 

Distracted Driving

Texting, eating, or using navigation systems while driving leads to tragic consequences, especially in large vehicles. 

Poor Maintenance

Brake failures, tire blowouts, and mechanical issues contribute to many trucking accidents. Trucking companies must keep vehicles in safe working order. 

Improperly Loaded Cargo

Overloaded or unbalanced trailers can cause rollovers and jackknife accidents. 

What to Do After a Truck Accident 

Call 911 and seek medical attention. Trucking accidents often involve severe injuries, even at lower speeds.

  • Get the truck driver’s information and the trucking company’s details. 
  • Take photos of the accident scene, road conditions, and vehicle damage. 
  • Don’t talk to the trucking company’s insurer. They often try to settle for less than you deserve. 
  • Call an experienced truck accident attorney. 

Why Choose Piazza Law? 

Truck accident claims are complex. Multiple parties — drivers, trucking companies, and manufacturers — may be liable. Piazza Law has decades of experience handling Pennsylvania trucking accident cases and fighting for maximum compensation. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.

What to Do After a Car Accident in Pennsylvania

Every second counts after a crash. Here’s what you need to know. 

Car accidents happen in an instant but can leave lasting consequences. In 2023 alone there were 110,382 reportable traffic crashes in Pennsylvania, according to PennDOT.

knowing what to do after an accident can protect your rights and strengthen your case if you need to pursue compensation. 

Check for Injuries and Call 911 

Even minor crashes can cause serious injuries. Pennsylvania law requires reporting accidents involving injuries, fatalities, or significant vehicle damage. Seek medical attention immediately — even if you feel fine, some injuries take time to appear. 

Gather Evidence at the Scene 

If it’s safe, collect: 

  • Photos of all vehicles involved, including damage and road conditions 
  • Witness contact information 
  • The other driver’s license, registration, and insurance details 

File a Police Report 

A police report serves as an official record of the accident. This document can be crucial for insurance claims and potential legal action. 

Notify Your Insurance Company 

Pennsylvania follows a no-fault insurance system, meaning your own insurer covers initial medical expenses regardless of who caused the crash. However, serious injuries may allow you to step outside this system and file a claim against the at-fault driver. 

Speak with a Car Accident Attorney 

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. If you’ve suffered injuries, lost wages, or property damage, a car accident lawyer can help you recover the full compensation you deserve.  At Piazza Law, we’ve been fighting for Pennsylvania accident victims for decades. Contact us today for a free consultation — let us handle the legal battle while you focus on healing.