Lane Crossover Accident In a Snowstorm

A crossover accident can happen when a car or truck crosses the dividing line and enters a lane of oncoming traffic.  

Some roads have a median or barrier between oncoming lanes. For those that don’t, head-on collisions can be severe and frequent, particularly in areas where the weather frequently causes slippery road conditions.  

Due to the nature of this kind of crash, crossover lane accidents can happen quickly and lead to traumatic brain injury, internal injuries, paralysis, or even death.  

When Are Motorists Required to Slow Down? 

In the state of New York, there are a variety of conditions that can require motorists to slow down, often below the posted “maximum” speed limit.  

New York’s Vehicle and Traffic Law contains many rules that govern safe motor vehicle operation. One rule states that:   

“The   driver   of  every  vehicle  shall . . .  drive at an appropriate reduced speed . . .   when  any  special hazard exists with respect to pedestrians, or other traffic by reason of weather  or  highway conditions, including, but not limited to a highway construction or maintenance work area.” (Emphasis added) 

Can Median Barriers Help Prevent Crossover Lane Accidents? 

According to the United States Department of Transportation, median barriers can reduce the number of cross-median accidents. For this reason, it is not uncommon to see median barriers on freeways and other busy roadways.  

Most barriers are either rigid, such as a concrete barrier, or semi-rigid, such as a metal guardrail. Some barriers are made of cables.

If You’ve Been Injured in a Lane Crossover Accident, Call William Mattar, P.C. 

At William Mattar P.C., our attorneys have the experience to help you if you are injured in  a crossover lane accident during a snowstorm, or any other weather conditions. Please do not hesitate to contact us for a free case consultation.