What To Do If You Wreck In the Snow

Written by Cooper & Friedman PLLC on February 10, 2026

Key Takeaways:

Drivers should adjust their driving to the weather, because negligence can still fall on them even in inclement weather.
Calling 911 and getting your car out of traffic, if possible, should be your first priority.
Document the details of the scene as soon as possible, as evidence like tire tracks, snow, and ice can disappear quickly.

Snow and ice make driving more difficult for everyone and increase the risk of a crash where it’s not always someone’s fault. You cannot sue the weather for compensation, so what can you do after weather causes you to wreck?

What Should I Do After a Wreck in the Snow?

Step 1: Protect Yourself and Others

Your safety always comes first after a winter crash. If possible, move your vehicle out of traffic or where traffic could potentially reach you. Snowy roads increase the risk of secondary collisions because it’s more difficult for people to stop suddenly. Once you are safe, be visible to rescuers and other drivers (National Weather Service):

Turn on your hazard lights.
Turn on the dome light at night when running the engine.
Tie a bright colored cloth, preferably red, to your antenna or door.
After snow stops falling, raise the hood to indicate you need help.

If you cannot move your vehicle, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened. Exiting on icy pavement can cause serious falls and exposure to the elements can be dangerous, especially for young children, pets, and elderly adults. Call 911 immediately. Emergency responders can help you get somewhere safe, document the scene, and provide medical care. Even if you don’t feel hurt, accept medical evaluation at the scene whenever offered for additional documentation.

Step 2: Document the Scene Carefully

Evidence disappears quickly in winter weather. Snow melts, vehicles move, and skid marks fade. Take photos as soon as it is safe.

Important evidence to document includes:

Vehicle damage from multiple angles
Road conditions, ice, and snow buildup
Traffic signs and signals
Visible injuries
License plates and vehicle positions

If witnesses stop, ask for their contact information and a statement if they are willing, or if they have driving technology like dashcams or other car cameras. Exchange information if other drivers are involved, including names, contact details, insurance information, and driver’s license numbers.

Step 3: Seek Medical Attention Promptly

Cold weather can mask pain and injury symptoms, like a natural ice pack. Combined with adrenaline, you might not notice that you feel hurt or off until hours or days after the crash. Common winter accident injuries include:

Whiplash
Fractures
Head injuries
Soft tissue damage

If you do have an injury, medical records are integral to your insurance claims because they connect your injuries to the accident. Delaying treatment gives insurance companies reasons to question your claim. Follow all medical advice that you’re given and make sure to attend follow-up appointments for more documentation.

Step 4: Notify Insurance, but Be Careful

Report the accident to your insurance company promptly, but stick to basic facts only. Avoid recorded statements without legal guidance, because insurance adjusters will use anything you say to look for reasons to reduce payouts. It is best if you do not accept quick settlement offers, as early offers rarely cover long-term medical needs or lost income.

Step 5: Contact a Louisville Personal Injury Lawyer

Winter accident cases are often complex ones. Road maintenance, weather reports, and driver behavior all factor into the case details, and drivers are expected to adjust speed and behavior for weather conditions. A wreck in the snow still involves fault analysis under Kentucky law, and many drivers might not know that snowy conditions do not automatically excuse negligence, which insurance companies may look for. Having a lawyer will help you to avoid some of the tactics that insurance companies or other drivers at fault may use against you in court.

FAQs About Car Wrecks in the Snow

Who is at fault in a wreck in the snow?
Fault for weather-related car crashes depends on driver behavior, speed, and road conditions, and not weather alone.
Should I still call police for a minor winter crash?
Yes. A police report helps document the conditions of the crash, which can be used in your insurance claim.
What if I slide on ice and hit another car?
Unfortunately, loss of control does not mean that you are not responsible under Kentucky law.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident in the State of Kentucky and are in need of an experienced car crash attorney, give the lawyers at the Cooper & Friedman law firm a call. The attorneys at Cooper and Friedman PLLC have over 50 years of combined experience defending the rights of car accident victims. Contact us with questions you might have or schedule a free case consultation with an attorney by calling 502-459-7555 today.