Chicago Car Accidents Caused by Rain

Car accidents caused by rain often happen when drivers fail to adjust their behavior to match the weather conditions. Even light rain can significantly reduce tire traction, impair visibility, and lead to longer stopping distances. Unfortunately, the vast majority of these rain-related accidents are preventable and often result from drivers’ failure to use reasonable care behind the wheel.

Rainy weather is one of the leading contributors to motor vehicle accidents in urban areas like Chicago. In 2023, according to data from the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), there were 10,461 crashes in Chicago involving wet road conditions, many of which occurred during or just after rainfall.

Our car accident attorneys in Chicago can help you understand what your legal rights are if you’ve been injured in a rain-related crash in Illinois.

Why Driving in the Rain Leads to More Car Crashes

Driving in the rain creates hazards that many drivers underestimate or ignore. Even experienced drivers can lose control of their vehicle when the road’s surface becomes slick. Here are a few reasons why wet weather causes so many crashes:

Reduced Traction

As rain hits the pavement, it mixes with oil, grime, and debris, creating a slippery film that reduces tire traction. This makes it harder to slow down or change direction without skidding. When there’s standing water, tires can “hydroplane,” or water ski, across the surface, causing drivers to drive uncontrollably.

Decreased Visibility

Heavy or light rain, foggy windows, or worn windshield wipers all affect visibility. Poor vision makes seeing other vehicles, turn signals, brake lights, and even the road’s edges more difficult. Rain can also reflect glare from headlights or streetlights, making matters worse.

Increased Stopping Distances

Wet pavement requires longer distances to stop safely. When drivers don’t leave extra space or maintain a safe following distance, they risk rear-end collisions, especially when hard braking is involved.

Chicago Rain-Related Motor Vehicle Accident Statistics

In 2023, the City of Chicago reported 2,220 rain-related crashes resulting in injuries (IDOT). These collisions commonly occurred during or after rain storms and humid weather events, particularly in the early morning or evening hours when visibility is low and roads are slick.

Of these crashes, 18 resulted in fatalities. The data shows that bad weather plays a significant role in increasing the number and severity of auto accidents, particularly when drivers fail to adjust their behavior to match road conditions.

The Role of Negligence in Weather-Related Accidents

Although rain creates wet road conditions, it doesn’t excuse drivers from their duty to exercise reasonable care. Under Illinois law (625 ILCS 5/), drivers are expected to operate their vehicles safely regardless of weather events.

Some examples of negligent behavior in rain-related car accidents include:

• Driving at or above the maximum speed limit despite wet pavement;
• Following other cars too closely without allowing extra space;
• Failing to use headlights or hazard lights in low-visibility conditions;
• Using cruise control on slick surfaces, which can make it harder to regain control after hydroplaning;
• Sudden movements such as sharp turns or aggressive braking in slippery conditions.

If a driver fails to adjust to rainy conditions and causes a crash, they can be liable for the resulting injuries, property damage, and other losses.

Understanding Fault in Rain-Related Personal Injury Cases

Establishing fault in a rain-related car accident requires showing that the other party didn’t take proper precautions given the weather conditions. Insurance companies often try to blame the weather rather than the driver’s failure to act safely, so building a strong case is essential.

Evidence that can support a personal injury case includes:

• Dashcam footage showing erratic or unsafe driving;
• Accident reports that document weather and road conditions;
• Witness statements from passengers or bystanders;
• Vehicle data showing speed, braking, or steering before impact.

Working with an experienced car accident lawyer can help you gather and present this evidence to prove the other driver’s negligence and recover compensation for your losses.

Compensation Available for Victims of Rain-Related Car Accidents

If you’ve been injured in a rain-related crash, you may be entitled to damages through a personal injury claim. Compensation often includes:

• Medical expenses, from ER visits and surgery to rehabilitation and ongoing treatment;
• Lost wages if you missed work due to your injuries;
• Reduced earning capacity if you’re no longer able to work in the same capacity;
• Pain and suffering, for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life;
• Property damage, including the cost to repair or replace your car.

Every case is unique. A car accident attorney can evaluate your situation and help ensure your damages are fully accounted for.

Preventative Measures for Driving Safely in the Rain

While no one can control the weather, drivers can reduce their risk by following essential safety tips during rainy conditions:

• Vehicle Maintenance: Regularly check tire treads and brake pads and replace windshield wipers.
• Reduce Speed: Driving slower than the posted limit gives you better control and more time to react.
• Increase Following Distance: Leave more room between you and the car in front of you—wet roads require more time to stop.
• Avoid Cruise Control: Stay engaged with road conditions and be ready to react.
• Use Headlights: Illinois law requires a car’s headlights to be on when wipers are used (625 ILCS 5/12-201). This helps other drivers see you better.

Practicing caution during wet weather is one of the best ways to avoid becoming a statistic.

Steps to Take After a Rain-Related Auto Accident in Chicago

If you’re involved in a rain-related auto accident, taking the proper steps can protect both your health and your legal rights:

• Ensure Safety: Move to a safe spot, turn on hazard lights, and check for injuries.
• Call Emergency Services: Report the crash to the police and request medical care.
• Document the Scene: Photograph damage, road conditions, and anything that shows weather-related factors.
• Exchange Information: Get contact and insurance details from the other party and witnesses.
• Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel okay, injuries can surface later.
• Consult a Car Accident Attorney: Before talking to the insurance company, speak with a lawyer at Rosenfeld Injury Law for guidance on how to proceed.

How Rosenfeld Injury Law Can Assist with Rain-Related Car Accident Claims

At Rosenfeld Injury Law, we’ve handled thousands of personal injury cases, including car accidents caused by rain. We understand the unique challenges of proving negligence in weather-related crashes and have the tools to help you build a strong case.

Our legal team will:

• Investigate the accident, including weather reports, crash scene evidence, and witness accounts;
• Work with experts to reconstruct the accident and analyze tire traction, visibility, and road conditions;
• Handle communications with the insurance company so you can focus on recovery;
• Fight for fair compensation, whether through settlement or trial.

We offer every client a free initial consultation, and we work on a contingency fee, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Contact a Chicago Car Accident Lawyer After an Auto Accident in the Rain

If you were injured in a car accident caused by rain, don’t let the insurance company blame the weather and deny you compensation. At Rosenfeld Injury Law, we understand the difference between an unavoidable storm and a driver who failed to drive safely in bad weather.

Our firm has a strong record of success representing victims of wet road crashes, and we’re here to help you pursue the financial recovery you deserve.

Call us at (888) 424–5757 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation with a knowledgeable Chicago personal injury attorney.

All content undergoes thorough legal review by experienced attorneys, including Jonathan Rosenfeld. With 25 years of experience in personal injury law and over 100 years of combined legal expertise within our team, we ensure that every article is legally accurate, compliant, and reflects current legal standards.