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Written By: Khan Law Admin
Written On: 15 January 2026
January’s severe winter weather has transformed Glasgow’s roads into hazardous zones, with black ice, snow, and freezing fog causing numerous collisions. If you’ve been injured in a winter traffic accident, you may be entitled to compensation, even if you think poor weather was solely to blame.
Can I Claim for a Winter Traffic Accident?
Yes. If another driver failed to take reasonable care in the conditions, or if the road authority failed to maintain the road properly under Section 34 of the Roads (Scotland) Act 1984, you can claim.
Key point: “The roads were icy” is not an automatic defence. Drivers must adapt their behaviour to match conditions, and road authorities must respond appropriately to weather warnings.
January 2026’s Dangerous Conditions
This month has seen amber warnings for snow and ice, temperatures dropping to freezing, and major routes like the M8, M80, and M74 affected by black ice. When severe weather is forecast days in advance, drivers are expected to prepare properly. Failure to do so makes them liable for accidents they cause.
Types of Winter Traffic Accident Claims
Road traffic accident claims: When another driver causes a collision through careless driving in winter conditions. Learn more
Passenger claims: You can claim regardless of who was at fault. The claim is against the insurance company, not your friend or family member personally. Find out more
At fault claims: Even if you were partly responsible, you may still recover compensation, though it will be reduced proportionally. Explore options
Uninsured or untraced driver claims: You can claim through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) if the other driver had no insurance, cannot be traced, or provided false details. Read more
Pedestrian accidents: Vehicles often cannot stop in time on icy roads. If you were struck while crossing or walking on a pavement, you can claim. Learn more
Vehicle damage claims: Even without injury, you can claim for repair costs, replacement vehicle hire, and loss of value. Find out more
What Evidence Should I Gather?
At the scene:
- Photograph all vehicle damage, road conditions (ice, snow, tyre tracks), and your injuries
- Exchange details with the other driver (never admit fault)
- Get witness contact details
- Note the time, temperature, and whether roads were treated
Immediately after:
- See your GP or visit A&E (some injuries like whiplash appear later)
- Report to your insurer
- If inadequate gritting contributed, report to Glasgow City Council
- Download dashcam footage immediately
- Don’t post on social media (insurers check accounts)
How Long Do I Have to Claim?
Three years from the accident date under Section 17 of the Prescription and Limitation (Scotland) Act 1973.
However, act quickly because weather conditions change, witness memories fade, and CCTV footage is often deleted after 30 days. Early investigation strengthens your case.
How Much Compensation Can I Get?
Solatium (pain and suffering):
- Minor injuries (full recovery within 3 months): £1,000 to £5,000
- Moderate injuries (3 to 12 months): £5,000 to £15,000
- Serious injuries requiring surgery: £15,000 to £100,000
- Very serious with lasting effects: £100,000 to £300,000
- Catastrophic or permanent disability: £300,000 to £1,000,000+
Financial losses: Lost earnings, medical expenses, care costs, travel expenses (45p per mile in 2026), vehicle costs, domestic help, home adaptations, and future losses.
If you were partly at fault, your compensation may be reduced proportionally under the Law Reform (Contributory Negligence) Act 1945.
Why Choose Khan Law?
We have extensive experience handling winter traffic accident claims in Glasgow. Our team:
- Knows Glasgow’s accident blackspots and problematic roads
- Immediately secures dashcam footage, CCTV, witness statements, and road authority gritting records
- Works with accident reconstruction specialists and medical consultants when needed
- Operates on a No Win, No Fee basis (you only pay if we win)
- Provides clear communication without legal jargon
- Will visit you at home or in hospital if you cannot travel
What Should I Do Now?
If you’ve been in a winter traffic accident:
- Seek medical attention (even if you feel fine)
- Gather evidence (photographs, witness details)
- Report to police (if injuries occurred) and your insurer
- Don’t accept early settlement offers without legal advice
- Contact Khan Law for a free consultation
Get Help Today
Glasgow’s winter weather continues to create dangerous driving conditions. Don’t wait to find out if you have a claim. Evidence deteriorates quickly, and the sooner you act, the stronger your case.
At Khan Law, we’ve successfully represented hundreds of Glaswegians in road traffic accident claims. Our no win, no fee promise means you have nothing to lose.
To speak to our team, call 0141 378 0514 or complete our confidential online enquiry form down below. We are ready to help you get answers and the compensation you deserve.