Last Friday, the roads in Cheyenne, Wyoming, became a slippery mess after falling snow combined with ice left over from the previous Wednesday. While there were no travel restrictions issued by the Wyoming Department of Transportation for trucks and other types of high-profile vehicles, eastbound Interstate 80 still had to be shut down for several hours between Laramie and Cheyenne. A crash was the cause of that closure.
Laramie County roads were slick, too, resulting in 18 accidents on Friday. Seven of those crashes injured the occupants. There was also a hit-and-run accident.
Across the state, the Highway Patrol said there were 71 accidents. Most were minor, but 18 resulted in injuries. Three were hit-and-run accidents.
In the city of Cheyenne, there were a reported 16 accidents, forcing the police department to implement their accident alert system. When that occurs, the Cheyenne police only respond to those accidents that meet certain criteria, such as those with injuries, immovable vehicles and drunk drivers. Others involved in accidents are to come into the police department to make out a delayed accident report. The police department responded to two minor accidents involving injuries.
When a car accident occurs that was not your fault, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries and losses. This can include pain and suffering, medical expenses, lost wages and much more. While the other driver may face criminal charges, those charges are not necessary for you to file your civil lawsuit; however, they could add weight to your suit.
An experienced personal injury attorney can give you advice on your situation, but he or she can also help you negotiate with insurance companies and locate expert witnesses to testify on your behalf when needed.
Source: wyomingnews.com, “Snow in Cheyenne causes dozens of accidents Friday,” James Chilton, Nov. 21, 2015