We are told that the winter of 2015 was one of the worst on record. Car accident statistics seem to confirm that fact as well.

North Bay Police Services has recently reported an unprecedented number of car accidents for the months of January and February, 2015. For instance, stats show that the police investigated a total of 147 traffic accidents in which 23 people sustained injuries in February alone. In some cases, highway patrol officers experienced a 100% increase in investigating accidents.

While the report suggests that the link between car accidents and the weather is one of correlation and not causation, Deputy Police Chief Shawn Devine thinks that the weather did play a role.

“I can’t say that it’s weather related but when you look at the weather we’ve had in January and February and the snow banks and the increased snow I can only make an assumption that it is related to that,” Devine says.

Car accident volume concerns police, but it should also concern us too. Driving during the winter is more dangerous than at other times of the year and requires extra caution. If not careful, winter driving can also be fatal. It is no surprise then that accidents increase during this snowy time of the year. Always exercise caution by driving slower and making sure your car is fit for the road.

In deciding compensation for car accidents, the weather and the steps that the driver took to avoid an accident will be considered, among other factors. Compensation for injuries as a result of a car accident is very fact-specific. Insurers may be reluctant to award any money if it is shown that the driver is at fault. If you or someone you know has been in a car accident, it’s vital that you speak with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible in order to receive the care and compensation you deserve.