When a car accident happens, there are often conflicting stories about how and why it occurred. One side may claim the other was speeding, while the other says visibility was too poor to stop in time. In these situations, weather reports can play a key role in helping clarify the facts. As a Fayetteville, NC car accident lawyer, we frequently review historical weather data to support or challenge claims made during an auto accident case.
At Macrae & Whitley, LLP, we’ve seen how seemingly small details, like rain or fog, can influence the outcome of a case. Having served Fayetteville, Cumberland County, and clients across North Carolina for over a century, we know that weather conditions often become a significant point of dispute in motor vehicle litigation.
Why Weather Reports Matter In Accident Claims
Weather reports help establish the conditions present at the time of an accident. If someone claims they lost control due to black ice, or couldn’t see because of heavy fog, accurate data from official weather stations can back that up — or contradict it.
This information can help us prove negligence or defend against it. For example, if it hadn’t rained for days before the accident, claims about hydroplaning may not hold up. On the other hand, a report showing icy conditions at the time of a crash could help explain why a driver slid through an intersection, especially if no mechanical failure or excessive speed was involved. Even if a lawyer does not look at this information, the insurance companies involved in the case certainly will.
Where The Data Comes From
Most courts accept weather reports from the National Weather Service or other government sources. So, just trying to ask witnesses what they saw that day does not count as an official weather report These reports include data such as temperature, wind speed, precipitation, humidity, and visibility. Local news stations may also keep archived records that are admissible under certain conditions. In some cases, we may use expert testimony to interpret the data and connect it to specific driving conditions.
We can also use traffic cameras, police reports, and even social media posts to supplement the official weather data. Sometimes witnesses will recall fog, sleet, or strong winds that align with the meteorological reports, further reinforcing a client’s version of events.
How We Use The Information
Weather data can support your side of the story, but it must be used properly. We often present these reports to counter exaggerated or inaccurate claims. If the other party alleges you were driving recklessly in the rain, but weather records show no rain that day, that could be important. Likewise, a sudden hailstorm might explain why a driver couldn’t maintain control.
We also compare weather conditions to traffic laws and driving expectations. In poor weather, drivers are expected to reduce their speed and increase following distance. If a driver failed to do so, and the conditions support that, we can present that evidence to strengthen a claim of negligence. Remember this goes both ways — if someone struck you because they were speeding during bad weather but you were also speeding, this will hurt your case.
Our Experience Matters
We’ve handled car accident cases in all types of weather, from summer thunderstorms to winter black ice. James C. MacRae, Jr. has been with the firm since 1989 and has worked with many clients where weather conditions were a key issue. Drawing on decades of case experience and deep local knowledge, we know how to present weather evidence clearly and effectively in court.
Contact Us
If you’ve been involved in a car accident and believe weather conditions played a role, contact us. At Macrae & Whitley, LLP, we know how to gather and present the right information to support your case. Reach out today to schedule a consultation and find out how we can help you move forward.