Windy, gusty snowstorms don’t just shove snow around; like any other windstorm, debris often gets caught up in the air like rocks, limbs, leaves, and salt. Sometimes you cannot avoid driving during a snowstorm. We get it. You have to get to work, pick up groceries, or shuffle the kids around. Just because there is a winter storm doesn’t mean life stops. Our car accident attorneys in Pittsburgh at Shenderovich Shenderovich & Fishman are here to give you some tips on avoiding the “brake failure” excuse when in an accident.
Braking in the Snow and Slush
Experienced drivers know that it is an art to drive in the snow. You can’t push the brake too hard or not at all. More than likely, drivers may know what to do but may not follow safe driving in the snow. Thankfully local news’ severe weather meteorologist visited Pittsburgh’s International Race Complex to test out how to brake in the snow.
The final verdict is a slow, steady brake is the best course of action. The meteorologist noted that you cannot brake better or faster even though you may have a four-wheel drive. If someone hits you, was it really because of brake failure or their inability to brake in the snow?
What Happens When Brakes Fail?
If your brakes fail, here are common behaviors people conduct if their brakes are out. First, they try to pump the brakes. The most common reason brakes fail is due to a lack of brake fluid. Pumping the brakes can help move whatever fluid is left or may be stuck. Second, they downshift. Third, if all else fails, they try to slowly rub their car against a guard rail, curb, or ride on the shoulder. At this point, the driver is beeping their horn and using their hazard lights to alert other drivers. If a driver hit you, were they acting as if their brakes gave out, or is it just an excuse? Did you hear the beep or see their hazards? If not, the accident was more than likely due to driver negligence and not brake failure.
Brake Failure is Common Excuse for an Accident
Our Car Accident Attorneys are sincerely protective of our clients. We want everyone to drive safely. However, at the scene of an accident, a driver will blame everything to avoid fault. If another driver hit you, more than likely, it was due to their negligence and not the brakes. We are here to
- Coverage of all crash-related medical expenses
- Lost income if you cannot work while recovering
- Pain and suffering damages
- Loss of enjoyment of life damages
- Possible punitive damages against a negligent driver
If you were injured in an accident, don’t hesitate—you can contact us for a free consultation by clicking here or calling 888-988-9467.