The Dangers of Fall Driving: Increased Auto Accidents in Reno Due to Changing Weather Conditions

October 18, 2024 · 6 min read

The fall season in Reno is indeed beautiful. During this time, Reno changes into a stunning landscape of cooler temperatures and colorful leaves. However, with this seasonal change comes increased risks on the roads. According to historical crash data, Reno ranks as one of the most accident-prone cities in Nevada, with over 23,000 traffic accidents reported in a two-year period. With the arrival of the fall season, every driver should be aware of the driving hazards on the Roads of Reno, especially during the evening rush hour. Let this blog be your guide to know more about the risks of accidents this fall season. Whether you need advice after an accident or want to learn how to stay safe on Reno’s roads, this blog has all the answers you need.

Shorter Days and Early Dusk Is A Hidden Risk

One of the most noticeable changes during fall is the shorter daylight hours. Since the Sun sets earlier during this period, many of us find ourselves driving in low-light conditions. To people who are not accustomed, you might find it harder to spot pedestrians, cyclists, and even other cars. Early dusk limits visibility, making it difficult to react quickly to obstacles on the road. Did you know that reduced visibility is a major factor in fall-related accidents, and 27% of fatal traffic accidents happen between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m.? So, it is clear that many drivers in Reno find it challenging to adjust to the sudden onset of darker evenings. If you have been in an accident during these tricky driving conditions of the fall season, it’s essential to look for the advice of an accident attorney in Reno. An attorney will protect your rights and help you with your legal options.

Wet, Icy Roads Create A Slippery Situation Fall is infamous for fluctuating weather conditions, particularly in high-altitude areas around Reno and the Sierra Nevada. Wet roads can quickly turn icy as temperatures drop, especially in the early mornings and late evenings. These slick surfaces increase the risk of skidding or losing control of your vehicle, leading to dangerous collisions. Imagine heading out for an evening drive or returning from your 9 -5 and suddenly hitting a patch of black ice, something many Reno drivers face as fall progresses. Accident lawyers in Reno often see a spike in car crashes during this season as drivers struggle to adjust to the changing road conditions. Even a brief rain shower can make roads dangerous, especially if your vehicle isn’t adequately prepared.

Early Snowfalls Is A Unique Hazard in Reno

Reno can experience early snowfalls that catch drivers off guard in October and November. The first snow of the season is often when accidents spike, as drivers aren’t always prepared for the drastic change in conditions. Snow reduces traction, increases stopping distances, and makes it harder to control your vehicle. If you are driving in or around Reno during these early snowfalls, take extra care. These unpredictable weather conditions teach all Reno residents the importance of having a well-maintained vehicle and a solid understanding of how to handle icy or snowy roads. If you find yourself involved in a fall-related accident in Reno or surrounding areas, a personal injury attorney in Carson City can guide you. They will be on your side throughout the process of securing compensation for your injuries.

How To Prevent Fall Accidents With Proper Vehicle Maintenance

Having a well-maintained vehicle during this fall season can keep you safe from most road accident risks. Here are a few key areas to focus on before winter: 1. Tire Checks - Your tires are your first line of defense on wet or icy roads. Make sure they have adequate tread and are properly inflated before you start driving on those slippery fall roads. Worn-out tires can drastically reduce your vehicle’s grip, thus increasing the risk of hydroplaning or sliding on slick surfaces. 2. Brake Inspections - Fall is the right time to get your brakes checked. Worn-out brakes can make it harder to stop on wet roads. This increases the risk of rear-end collisions on the road. 3. Windshield Wipers - Visibility is very important in the dark and during heavy rain or snow. Make sure your wipers are in good condition and help with good visibility. If you notice they are underperforming, replace them. 4. Fluid Levels: Check your vehicle’s antifreeze, windshield washer fluid, and oil levels to confirm everything is ready for colder weather. Taking these preventive steps not only helps you avoid accidents but also keeps you safer on the road when fall weather is at its worst.

Steps to Take After an Accident

Accidents can be disorienting and stressful, but knowing what to do immediately after can protect your rights. The right steps can help you get the compensation you deserve if the accident was caused by someone else's fault. Here are some important steps to take if you are involved in a crash this fall:

Take Care Of Your Safety First - Move your vehicle out of traffic if it's safe to do so, and turn on your hazard lights. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries and call 911 if necessary.
Exchange Information - Gather the other driver's contact details, insurance information, and vehicle registration. Be polite, but don't admit fault at the scene, or it can be used against you in court.
Document the Scene - Take photos of the accident site, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries (only if you're in the right situation to do so). This can be valuable evidence if you need to file a claim later.
Contact Your Insurance Company - Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. They will guide you through the next steps to resolve the claim.
Speak with a Personal Injury Attorney - Whether your injuries are minor or severe, consulting with an accident attorney in Reno can help you understand your legal options and ensure you are fairly compensated. This step is important if you do not want to make any mistakes that could jeopardize your compensation.

Protect Your Rights After A Fall Accident in Reno/ Carson City with Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney

At Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney, we understand the challenges Reno drivers face during the fall season. Shorter days, icy roads, and early snowfalls create dangerous driving conditions, and the risk of accidents increases greatly. If you have been involved in a fall-related auto accident, we are here to help and guide you every step of the way. We are experienced in this area and have been doing it for the past 65+ years. Whether you need an accident lawyer in Reno or a personal injury attorney in Carson City, we will provide you with free consultations and take no fee until we win your case. So, if you have been in a car accident recently, give us a call, and we will handle it all so that you can focus on your recovery.

Jul 16, 2026

How Much Is My Car Accident Claim Worth in Nevada?

After a crash in Reno, NV, you have the right to get compensation for your losses and damages from anyone who was at fault. Many people start this process by asking "how much is my car accident claim worth,” but it's not possible to put a number on your case without knowing the details. Talk to a lawyer as soon as you can, and keep reading to learn about the main elements that will shape the number. How Much Is My Car Accident Claim Worth in Reno, NV? The value of your claim is going to depend heavily on several factors, the four most important of which are: Liability Total damages Comparative negligence Skill and experience of your lawyer 1. Liability Liability is determined by who was negligent. Negligence happens when someone doesn't act the way a reasonable person in that situation would to protect themselves or others. In car wrecks, liability often comes down to asking, "Who failed to perform their duty towards other road users by failing to follow the laws or acting unreasonably?” If you can show someone was speeding, ran a red light, was driving distracted, or similar, you can usually hold them liable. 2. Total Damages Your damages break down into two categories: economic and non-economic. Economic These are the concrete financial losses, like medical expenses, lost wages from missed work, lost earning capacity if you can't return to the same job or hours because of your injuries, and property damage. These are the foundation of your claim. Non-Economic Pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and any lasting changes to your daily activities or relationships belong in this group. There is no fixed formula that automatically applies for calculating these. It all depends on the severity of your injury, how long recovery takes, whether the effects are permanent, and how the injury has altered your normal routine. It also depends on your attorney: a good attorney will know how to calculate this fairly and argue for it effectively. 3. Comparative Negligence Nevada uses the 50% comparative negligence rule, and that can affect your claim. So long as you're not more than 50% at fault, you can claim compensation, but your claim will get reduced by the same amount as your fault. So if you're found to be 15% at fault and are owed $23,000 in compensation, you'd end up with about $19,550. It's very important to have a lawyer if you have some fault in the incident, as your lawyer can make sure you're protected from any attempt to call you more at fault than you are. 4. Your Lawyer It matters whether your lawyer is experienced in personal injury cases and skilled at: Gathering evidence and putting it together clearly and effectively Negotiating with insurers and understanding their tactics for minimizing claims Dealing with the red tape of the Nevada legal system Arguing and winning in court, if needed To get the help your claim needs, visit Bradley Drendel & Jeanney in Reno, NV now or call us at 775-335-9999 for a free consultation. We've been protecting Nevada personal injury victims for over 70 years.

Aug 27, 2026

What Should You Do Immediately After a Truck Accident?

After a truck accident involving a large commercial vehicle, the things you choose to do (or forget to do) can have a big effect on your future claim. Here's what to do after a truck accident in Carson City, NV. What to Do After a Truck Accident in Carson City, NV Check for Injuries Check yourself and everyone in your vehicle for injuries the moment the vehicles stop, and remember that adrenaline can easily mask pain, broken bones, or internal injuries for a time, so always get checked out later even if you feel fine at the moment. If anyone feels dizzy, has neck pain, or struggles to breathe, help them stay still and wait for help unless there's a life-threatening emergency, such as a car fire. Call 911 right away so police and emergency medical crews can respond. If your car can still move and the roadway is unsafe, pull as far off the travel lanes as possible. Talk to First Responders When officers reach the scene, give them a factual account of what you saw and felt. Stick to the sequence of events and don't make any guesses about fault or offer any opinions. Ask for the report number and the name of the investigating officer before you leave, because that official record is an important piece of evidence you may need later. Get Evidence If you're well enough to do so, snap pictures of everything you can. Capture the positions of both vehicles, the truck's company name, the USDOT number on the truck and its license plate, and any visible cargo. Include pictures of any skid marks, junk in the road, weather conditions, traffic signals, and the surrounding roadway generally. Take pictures of your own injuries and the interior of your vehicle. Exchange Information Exchange basic information with the truck driver and any other involved drivers, if it is safe to do so and you are all well enough to do so. You should get names, registration, and insurance information from everyone, but from the truck driver you'll also need commercial license details and the motor carrier's name. Collect contact information from any witnesses who stopped. Talk to Your Insurer Notify your own insurance company as soon as you can, but provide only the basic facts of the collision. Avoid making any recorded statements to the trucking company's insurer until you understand the full scope of your losses and have talked to a lawyer. Be aware that commercial carriers love to send adjusters to the scene quickly and press you to make a recordered statement as soon as possible; the goal is to get you to say something they can use later to limit their losses. Always refer them to your lawyer. Contact a Lawyer As soon as you're able, contact a lawyer with experience in truck accident claims. These claims often involve multiple parties, from the driver and motor carrier to cargo loaders, third-party mechanics, and sometimes equipment manufacturers. Each may have different insurance layers and different defenses. Contact Bradley Drendel & Jeanney today in Reno, NV for a free consultation. We've served all of Nevada and Northeastern California for over 70 years.

Jun 18, 2026

What Is a Contingency Fee?

When an unexpected injury disrupts your life, you may have the right to bring a legal claim to get reimbursed for your losses and damages. But doing so on your own is hard for many reasons, not least of all because you've got to concentrate on healing and getting back to normal life. You might have thought of contacting a lawyer here in Reno and wondered just what a personal injury lawyer contingency fee is all about. Defining the Contingency Fee Arrangement A contingency fee is a payment structure where your lawyer only gets compensation if your case is successful. If there is no recovery, you owe no attorney fees. This arrangement is especially common in personal injury because it removes the barrier of having to come up with immediate legal costs just to pursue your rights. The lawyer's payment comes as a percentage of whatever is recovered. How the Personal Injury Lawyer Contingency Fee Typically Works When you go this route, your lawyer invests time, resources, and expertise with the understanding that payment depends entirely on their success. The percentage is agreed upon in advance, and sometimes it can increase if the case ends up requiring more work or has to go to trial. You and the lawyer sign a written contract that spells out the exact percentage and scale, how it applies to the total recovery, and other key terms. Once the funds arrive from your award, your lawyer deducts their fee according to the agreement, handles any liens or medical repayments that have to be reimbursed from it, and distributes the remainder to you. Written Agreements and Nevada Requirements Nevada rules basically require that the contingency fee agreement be in writing and signed by you, clearly state the method for calculating the fee, include the specific percentages that apply at different stages, and address how expenses are to be handled and whether you remain responsible for those if the case does not succeed. Fees vs Case Expenses The contingency percentage covers the lawyer's time and skill. Case expenses are other things, like court filing fees, the cost of getting expert witness reports, medical record retrieval, investigation expenses, and costs for doing deposition transcripts. In many personal injury cases, the lawyer advances these costs and only recovers them from the settlement proceeds if the case succeeds. Advantages of the Contingency Structure Access With this arrangement, you can afford to retain experienced representation without draining all your savings or taking on debt just to get started. Confidence With this arrangement, your lawyer has skin in the game. Their recovery depends on winning, and the amount they get depends on maximizing your compensation. Breathing Room Instead of worrying about monthly legal bills, you can focus on medical treatment and getting your life back on track. Talk to a Reno Personal Injury Lawyer to Learn More Call us today at Bradley Drendel & Jeanney in Reno, NV, where our nearly seven decades of focus on personal injury cases make us one of the state's most established firms.