Weather and inclement conditions often underlie accidents. Commonly, poor weather leads to driving conditions that increase risk of fender-benders and serious automobile accidents in West Virginia. Cold weather also increases hazards, including the following:
- Residential fire — Candles left burning and poorly situated space heaters can quickly lead to a fatal fire. Poorly maintained furnaces and worn wiring could spark a serious house fire.
- Carbon monoxide poisoning — In winter months, use of fuel-burning appliances in enclosed spaces can lead to deadly levels of carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide, an odorless, colorless gas, interrupts oxygenation of red blood cells in the body.
- Slip and fall — When rain and snow fall, so do people. Slip-and-fall is a leading cause of traumatic brain injury (TBI) for persons of all ages.
This year, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is calling for an equal chances forecast for our area when chances for above, below or just average temperatures and precipitation are about the same.
As cold weather arrives, keep your car and your home appliances maintained. Be sure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors have fresh batteries. Leave plenty of time to commute and play it safe and stay home if in doubt about road conditions.
Weather influences accident rates all year. If you are injured in an automobile, slip-and-fall, or other accident in West Virginia this season, speak with our law firm.
