Winter weather produces LaSalle County accidents

The recent winter weather with rain and snow producing slick and icy roads caused several car accidents in LaSalle County last week.  One occurred near Seneca on Route 6, where a westbound motorist spun out of control and into the eastbound lanes of traffic.

One basic "rule of the road" is that when weather conditions makes driving dangerous due to icy and slippery roads, you should slow down to help maintain better control of your vehicle.  This principle is actually contained in the Illinois Motor Vehicle Code, which requires that speed shall be reduced when conditions require doing so.

Even though everyone knows that you should slow down in dangerous driving conditions, a surprising number of car insurance companies deny liability when their insured is involved in a car accident due to losing control on slick or icy roads.  Their position normally is that their insured was driving within the speed limit and was being careful but the loss of control just could not be prevented.  This is a position that is simply not compatible with Illinois law, but that will not prevent insurers from unfairly denying liability for car accidents.  When an insurer unfairly denies a claim, the only recourse is to seek the assistance of an experienced Chicago personal injury lawyer who will either be able to get the insurance company to reconsider its position or file suit on your behalf.