March Weather in Stockton Causes Multiple Accidents
Record.net accurately described the beginning of March as “roaring in” with high winds and rain. Residents in Stockton and throughout San Joaquin County faced up to two inches of rain in just four days. Although the weather was not expected to cause flooding concerns in San Joaquin County, it did cause several other problems for residents.
Strong wind caused power outages for about 12,000 customers throughout the country, according to Pacific Gas and Electric Co. The wind took out lines in Lockeford, Acampo, and Clements. In addition to causing power outages, the downed lines posed dangerous conditions. An electric pole in Stockton along Ralph Avenue snapped, which resulted in a street closure until the area could be cleared and repairs completed. A tree also fell onto Highway 120 in Manteca near the Union Road off-ramp causing traffic delays.
In addition to problems with electric lines, the weather caused several traffic accidents in Stockton and the surrounding areas. CHP reported numerous accidents along the freeway caused by spinouts. One of the most serious accidents occurred in the southbound lanes of Interstate 5 near the intersection of Interstate 580. A truck ended up hanging off the side of the overpass after hitting a side wall. The driver was able to get out of the truck safely, but the accident resulted in a traffic jam until mid-afternoon. The Stockton Fire Department reported that it responded to nine accidents during a 15-hour period.
Driving in Poor Weather Conditions
Driving in poor weather conditions can be challenging. Rain, intense winds, fog, snow, and ice can make it extremely dangerous for drivers. It is very easy to lose control of a vehicle under these conditions. Even though the weather may be a contributing factor, if a driver causes an accident, that driver is responsible for any damages caused by that accident.
In many cases, an accident that occurs during poor weather is caused because of driver error. The driver was traveling too fast for conditions, distracted, or inexperienced. Therefore, it is good to remember that when you are driving during periods of poor weather, you need to be extra cautious.
The California Driver Handbook offers tips and suggestions for driving in special situations, including fog, sun glare, darkness, rain, snow, floods, around curves, and other conditions. In most cases, you should:
- Reduce the speed of the vehicle. In most adverse weather conditions, traveling at the posted speed limit could be dangerous. Reducing your speed can reduce your risk of an accident.
- Pay close attention to traffic and road conditions. Distracted driving is always dangerous. During periods of poor weather, you need to be very attentive to the conditions outside of your vehicle to reduce your risk of an accident.
- In addition to the weather conditions, watch for debris in the roadway. Strong winds can blow leaves, limbs, trash, and other debris into the road making conditions even more dangerous for drivers.
Call a San Joaquin County Car Accident Attorney
If you have been injured in a weather-related car accident, the attorneys of Torem & Associates are here to help you. We represent clients in Stockton and the surrounding San Joaquin County area.
Call (888) 500-5000or use the contact form on our website to schedule a free consultation with a Stockton personal injury lawyer.
Source: “March roars in with rain, wind gusts; more is on the way.” Joe Goldeen. Record.net. 01 March 2018.
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