March Madness is supposed to be about college basketball, including stunning upsets, last second shots and the pageantry of communities coming together to support their teams. Unfortunately, this year’s madness included a snowstorm that continues to drive people mad.
According to the Associated Press, a weekend storm dropped nearly 12 inches of snow in St. Louis, and nearly nine inches in Kansas City, one of the regional sites of the NCAA Tournament. More than 100 flights were cancelled at Lambert Field, and winter storm advisories were issued across the Interstate 70 corridor. Also, TV station KOMU in Columbia was evacuated because high winds and heavy snow threatened the station’s broadcast tower.
Despite the warnings, several fatal crashes were reported in Kansas and Missouri. A single vehicle crash claimed the life of a Topeka man when his car rolled over in Shawnee County. Another man from Naperville, Illinois was killed when his car spun out of control on Interstate 35 in Clay County, Missouri.
These accidents are sobering reminders of the need for caution when driving conditions become wet and icy. Drivers have a legal duty to use due care when snow (and ice) make roads slippery. If a driver fails to use such care and causes an accident, he or she can be held liable for the ensuing injuries and property damage. Injured parties can seek compensation for pain and suffering, medical expenses, and costs of replacing damaged vehicles.
If you have been in an accident, an experienced personal injury attorney can answer your questions about liability.
Source: ABC News.com, Midwest sees spring transform into winter weather, March 25, 2013