Hydroplaning accidents are a common and dangerous occurrence during wet weather in Alabama. The state ranks among the top five with the highest risk for hydroplaning in the U.S.
When a vehicle hydroplanes, a thin layer of water causes the tires to lose contact with the road, causing the driver to lose control. These events can happen suddenly and without warning, often leading to serious collisions.
Determining fault in hydroplaning accidents can be complicated because various elements influence liability. Learn about fault assessment in hydroplaning collisions and how our Alabama car accident lawyers can protect your right to compensation.
What Is Hydroplaning?
Hydroplaning occurs when a layer of water forms between the road and a vehicle’s tires, causing it to lose traction. This typically happens when a vehicle travels too fast for the road conditions, and the tires cannot disperse the water quickly enough. When the tires lose contact with the road, the vehicle may skid, making it difficult for the driver to steer, brake, or accelerate.
While hydroplaning can occur at lower speeds, the risk increases at 45 mph, with more incidents expected at 55 to 60 mph and above. Wet weather conditions often trigger hydroplaning, with driver behavior, road maintenance, and vehicle conditions also contributing to the likelihood of losing control.
Factors Influencing Fault Determination in Hydroplaning Accidents
Determining fault in a hydroplaning accident requires looking at several factors that may have played a role, including:
Driver Behavior
Driver behavior can influence fault in hydroplaning accidents. Certain actions (or inactions) can increase the risk of hydroplaning, making drivers potentially liable for the resulting collision. Common driver-related factors include:
- Excessive Speed: Driving too fast for road conditions is one of the leading causes of hydroplaning. Even if the driver was within the posted speed limit, they could still be found at fault if they were driving too quickly given the wet conditions.
- Failure to Maintain a Safe Following Distance: When the road is wet, it takes longer for vehicles to stop. Drivers are expected to maintain a safe distance from the car in front—between 6 and 8 seconds in bad weather—to prevent rear-end collisions in case of sudden braking.
- Not Adjusting to Road Conditions: Alabama law requires drivers to adjust their driving for weather and road conditions. Failure to slow down, use headlights, or avoid standing water could be considered negligent behavior.
Road Conditions
Road conditions can contribute to hydroplaning accidents. If poor maintenance or flawed design is involved, the entity responsible for the roadway may share some responsibility.
- Inadequate Drainage: Roads with poor drainage systems can accumulate water, increasing the likelihood of hydroplaning. If the roadway had insufficient drainage, the local government or maintenance authority could be held partially responsible.
- Worn Road Surfaces: Potholes, cracks, or worn asphalt can trap water, creating conditions that lead to hydroplaning. A municipality may be liable if it neglects to repair these issues, resulting in unsafe driving conditions.
- Oil or Debris on the Road: Oil spills or debris can exacerbate the risk of hydroplaning. The state or local entity responsible for road upkeep may be liable if the road was improperly cleaned or maintained.
Vehicle Maintenance
Skipping regular vehicle maintenance can lead to an accident, which means the driver could be held responsible for not keeping their car safe.
- Tire Tread Depth: Tires with insufficient tread depth are less capable of channeling water away, increasing the risk of hydroplaning. Alabama law sets specific safety standards for tire tread, requiring it to be at least 2/32 of an inch. Drivers are responsible for making sure their tires meet these requirements.
- Tire Inflation: Underinflated or overinflated tires can affect a vehicle’s handling on wet roads, increasing the risk of losing traction. Drivers should inflate their tires to the manufacturer’s specifications for their vehicle’s make and model.
- Brakes: Worn or poorly maintained brakes can reduce stopping power, making it harder to regain control if hydroplaning occurs. Drivers should have their brakes inspected and maintained to ensure quick response in wet conditions.
Legal Considerations After a Hydroplaning Accident
Figuring out who’s at fault in a hydroplaning accident usually requires a detailed investigation, and that’s where a lawyer can help. They can gather the right evidence to strengthen your case, including the following:
- Witness Statements: Statements from drivers, passengers, or witnesses to clarify road conditions, driver behavior, or the events leading up to the crash
- Weather Reports: Weather data from the time of the accident to verify rain or hazardous conditions and to determine whether the driver adjusted their driving accordingly
- Expert Testimonies: Accident reconstruction experts who can examine the scene and vehicle to help identify negligence or vehicle issues that contributed to the hydroplaning incident
- Vehicle Inspection Records: Maintenance records to verify if the driver kept the vehicle in safe working condition, specifically their tires and brakes
Get Help From Our Alabama Car Accident Lawyers
If you’ve been involved in a hydroplaning accident, consult an experienced Alabama car accident attorney from The Vance Law Firm Injury Lawyers to understand your legal rights and options. Our skilled attorneys have the local knowledge and legal expertise to investigate your case, gather crucial evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact our law firm for a free, no-obligation consultation. With a track record of successfully handling hydroplaning accident cases in Alabama, we know what it takes to hold negligent parties accountable.
