Who Is at Fault in Car Accidents Caused by Hydroplaning?

It is a motorist’s responsibility to do everything in their power to drive safely. Hydroplaning is not an excuse for unsafe driving. If a driver causes an accident and cites hydroplaning as the reason for it, this individual is still held accountable for the incident. 

At John Foy & Associates, we offer legal help to those involved in car accidents caused by hydroplaning. We can connect you with a Atlanta car accident lawyer who can help you file a personal injury lawsuit. Plus, we answer common questions you may have about who is at fault in car accidents caused by hydroplaning. 

What Is Hydroplaning?

Hydroplaning happens when a car’s tires lose their grip on the road. It affects a driver’s ability to steer and brake. In the worst-case scenario, hydroplaning can cause an auto accident. 

There are many reasons why hydroplaning occurs, such as:

1. Poor Road Conditions

The risk of hydroplaning increases once the amount of water on a road exceeds 1/10 of an inch. At this point, a car that travels over a puddle of water can hydroplane. If a car moves over a deep puddle, the risk of hydroplaning can be significant. 

2. Driving Too Fast

A driver must follow the rules of the road, including the posted speed limits. If a motorist is speeding, this individual can drive over a puddle and hydroplane. In this scenario, the motorist can face severe penalties. 

3. The Tread Depth of a Car’s Tires

Car tires are prone to wear and tear. If a driver does not maintain their car’s tires, the depth of the tires can deteriorate. This depth can reach a level where the tires cannot safely grip the road, increasing the risk of hydroplaning. 

If you are injured in a Georgia car accident where a motorist hydroplaned, consult with an attorney. A Georgia car accident attorney takes as much time as needed to learn about your case. Your lawyer can help you pursue economic and non-economic damages from the at-fault party. 

Is Hydroplaning Avoidable?

There are several things that a driver can do to limit the risk of hydroplaning. These include:

• Reduce your speed by 5 to 10 miles per hour when traveling on wet roads. 
• Avoid puddles and standing water. 
• Replace your car’s tires if their tread depth drops below 2/32 of an inch. 
• Keep your car’s tires properly inflated. 
• Rotate and balance your car’s tires approximately every 5,000 miles. 

Even if a driver takes precautions to avoid hydroplaning, this individual can still cause an accident. If you are injured in a Georgia car accident that occurs due to hydroplaning, get medical help right away. Then, partner with a car accident lawyer in Georgia who can seek damages on your behalf. 

How Much Money Can You Request from an At-Fault Driver in a Car Accident Caused by Hydroplaning?

A car accident attorney in Georgia may encourage you to request tens of thousands of dollars in damages. You can request any amount of money in a Georgia car accident case. However, an attorney will look at your economic and non-economic losses and help you determine an appropriate amount of damages to pursue. 

Economic damages from an auto accident can include compensation from a loss of income or medical bills. Comparatively, non-economic damages can consist of compensation for pain and suffering from a car accident. Your attorney will help you request both types of damages in your auto accident case. 

To get the most damages possible, you and your attorney will need to gather and review evidence. This can help you present a strong argument against an at-fault party. It may help you receive a settlement offer that allows you to close your case before it goes to trial. 

Will an At-Fault Party Who Hydroplaned Try to Settle a Lawsuit Outside of Court?

Sometimes, it is in a defendant’s best interest to settle an auto accident lawsuit outside the courtroom. For instance, a defendant who hydroplaned may realize the plaintiff’s evidence is likely to compel a judge or jury to award damages. In this instance, the defendant can present a settlement offer to pay a portion of the damages to the plaintiff in the hopes of immediately settling the case.

If you sue an at-fault party in a car accident that occurs due to hydroplaning and get a settlement offer, meet with an attorney. This allows you to assess your settlement proposal with a legal professional. You can then get insights into whether now is the right time to accept the offer. 

Your attorney will encourage you to look at a settlement proposal from all angles. Once you consider the short- and long-term ramifications of accepting an offer, you can make an informed decision about it. If a settlement proposal is less than what you want, you can decline it and continue with your litigation. 

How Much Time do You Have to Sue an At-Fault Driver for a Car Accident that Occurs Due to Hydroplaning? 

There is a two-year limit for requesting damages in a personal injury lawsuit in Georgia. If you wait more than two years from the date of your auto accident, you no longer have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit. Thus, you cannot seek damages from the at-fault driver. 

If you are considering suing an at-fault driver for a car accident that occurs due to hydroplaning, contact a lawyer. When you do, an attorney can take a look at your case and provide you with a personalized legal strategy. If you decide to sue, your lawyer will ensure your lawsuit is filed within a reasonable time frame. 

After your litigation gets underway, it may take months or years before your case is settled. Regardless, your attorney is committed to your success. Your lawyer will do what is necessary to help you settle your case as quickly as possible. 

Where Can You Find an Attorney to Help You with a Car Accident Lawsuit Against an At-Fault Party Who Hydroplaned?

At John Foy & Associates, we can put you in touch with the Strong Arm of the law. We have many years of legal experience in car accident cases and are here to help you in any way we can. To get started, please reach out to us today.