High Wind Accidents

As all South Florida residents know, the weather may change in the blink of an eye. High winds are no stranger to this area, where hurricanes, tropical storms, or just summertime afternoon showers may produce significant gusts. There is no avoiding these winds while driving. As a result, high wind accidents are common and may lead to significant injuries to drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike. The Miami car accidents at the Law Offices of Robert Dixon assist victims of high wind collisions in pursuing legal claims to recover compensation necessary to treat the financial impact of their injuries. The team represent clients throughout all of the stages of their case, from insurance company negotiations to any necessary litigation.

Winds are deemed “high” when they are at least 40 mph, or in a storm with gusts over 58 mph. These winds may cause drivers to lose control of their cars, especially when traveling on an overpass or another elevated roadway. Since winds may be considered “acts of God” with regard to insurance policy terms, many insurance companies are inclined to deny responsibility for wind-related accidents, even when driver error is a factor. Many times, however, it is not simply the wind but instead a driver’s inability to cope with windy conditions or failure to change their actions to account for changing weather that caused a crash. If a driver operates their vehicle carelessly in high winds, they may be found negligent and held responsible for the injuries that result.

To show that another driver was negligent in causing a high wind collision, a plaintiff must prove that the defendant breached their duty to act as a reasonable and prudent driver would have acted given the circumstances. If evidence suggests that a driver continued to speed excessively during high winds, running another vehicle off the roadway, they probably would be seen as unreasonably careless.

Additionally, a plaintiff must show that their injuries were caused by the negligent act and that damages were incurred. A successful plaintiff may be compensated for their medical costs, property damage, lost income and loss of earning capacity, and pain and suffering. Injuries sustained in these types of accidents may be quite severe and often include broken bones, head trauma, and spinal cord injuries. It is important to consult an attorney who can help you investigate the cause of your accident to make sure that the proper parties are brought into the case.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a high wind accident, the motor vehicle collisions at the Law Offices of Robert Dixon can help you sort through the aftermath and ensure that your legal rights are protected. Our Miami attorneys also represent victims in Miami, West Palm Beach, and other cities in Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties. Call 877.499.4878 or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation about your case.