Winter Weather in Texas: How Rain, Fog, and Ice Lead to Serious Accidents

Snow may be rare in much of Texas, but winter weather still creates dangerous conditions for drivers across the state. Rain, fog, and ice can appear suddenly and significantly increase the risk of serious accidents. According to the Texas Department of Insurance, nearly 60,000 crashes each year are attributed to hazardous weather conditions. With increased travel during the holiday season, understanding these risks—and knowing your legal rights if an accident occurs—is essential.

This article explains how winter weather contributes to accidents in Texas, what qualifies as driver negligence in poor conditions, and what to do if you or a loved one is injured in a winter-related crash.

How Winter Weather Contributes to Accidents in Texas

Texas weather is unpredictable. Clear skies can turn into heavy rain or dense fog within minutes, leaving drivers unprepared. Below are the most common winter weather hazards in Texas and how they contribute to serious crashes.

Rain

Rain is the leading cause of weather-related accidents in Texas. Wet roads reduce tire traction, increasing stopping distance and the likelihood of hydroplaning. Heavy rain can also limit visibility, making it harder for drivers to see traffic signals, pedestrians, or other vehicles.

If rain begins while you’re traveling:

• Turn on your headlights to improve visibility

• Reduce your speed

• Increase following distance

• Avoid sudden braking or lane changes

Drivers who continue to speed or drive aggressively in rainy conditions may be considered negligent if an accident occurs.

Fog

Dense fog is especially dangerous because it drastically reduces visibility, often without much warning. In Texas alone, fog-related crashes caused 193 accidents and 72 deaths in 2019. When drivers cannot see clearly, reaction times drop and collisions become more likely.

Safe driving practices in fog include:

• Using low-beam headlights (not high beams)

• Slowing down

• Maintaining extra distance from other vehicles

Failing to adjust driving behavior in foggy conditions can put everyone on the road at risk.

Ice

Although ice is less common in Texas than in northern states, it still presents a serious danger—especially when drivers are unfamiliar with icy road conditions. Bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas are particularly susceptible to black ice, which is difficult to see and can cause sudden loss of control.

Drivers who fail to slow down, brake carefully, or maintain their vehicles during icy conditions may be held responsible if they cause a crash.

When Another Driver’s Negligence Causes a Winter Crash

Texas follows an at-fault system, meaning the driver who causes an accident is responsible for the resulting damages. Poor weather does not excuse careless behavior. Drivers are expected to adjust their driving to match road and visibility conditions.

Examples of negligence during winter weather include:

• Speeding on wet or icy roads

• Following too closely in rain or fog

• Driving distracted despite hazardous conditions

• Failing to maintain brakes or tires

If another driver’s negligence caused your injuries, you may have the right to file a personal injury claim—even if weather played a role in the crash.

What to Do After a Winter Weather Accident

Accidents can still happen, even when you take precautions. If you’re involved in a winter-related crash, taking the right steps can protect your health and your legal rights.

Ensure safety. Check for injuries, move to a safe location if possible, and call for emergency assistance.

Document everything. Take photos of the scene, road conditions, vehicle damage, and injuries. Exchange information with the other driver and gather witness details if available.

Seek medical care. Even minor symptoms should be evaluated. Some injuries may not appear immediately but can worsen over time.

Report the accident. A police report provides critical documentation that may support your claim later.

Consult an attorney. Weather-related accidents can involve disputed liability. Having legal guidance can help protect your rights and strengthen your case.

Injured in a Texas Car Accident? Call Shaw.

The last thing anyone expects during a holiday trip is to be sidelined by a serious crash. If you or a loved one was injured while traveling this winter due to another driver’s negligence anywhere in Texas, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Ambulance costs

• ER treatment and hospital care

• Surgeries and ongoing medical expenses

• Pain and suffering

• Property damage

• Lost wages or missed work

• Wrongful death damages

• And more

At Carabin Shaw, we understand how overwhelming a sudden accident can be—especially during the holidays. That’s why we’re here to help you understand your legal options for free.

📞 Call Shaw at 800-862-1260 today or use our live chat to schedule your free case evaluation with one of our expert personal injury attorneys. No fees, no obligations. Just experienced legal guidance from a team that puts clients first.

We look forward to serving you.