Motor Vehicle Accidents: What to Do If a Road Hazard Has Caused My Car Accident
Generally, most vehicle accidents will be the direct or indirect result of a driver’s actions. This could be through negligent or distracted driving and, if so, that would be a valid claim for the victim(s). In some cases, however, a road issue may be the sole cause of a vehicle accident resulting in injuries.
A few examples of road conditions that could cause vehicle accidents involve the following:
- Broken cement blocks,
- Deteriorating bridges,
- Disintegrating roads, potholes, irregular pavement,
- Traffic cones, or devices,
- Road or road construction debris,
- Missing or misleading road signs and warnings, or
- Faulty designs.
Certain parties may be held accountable for the injuries or damages sustained as a result of the accident. If you have recently suffered a vehicle accident as a result of a road hazard, seek the legal guidance of a skilled attorney that has experience in dealing with motor vehicle accidents. As a victim, you may be able to seek financial restitution for your grievances. Be aware: these cases may have extraordinarily short time limits to act. Do not delay!
Roadway Deterioration
Road repairs or construction projects may undergo extensive periods of incompletion. As roads are being built, poor conditions or other hazards can cause vehicle accidents and, in some cases, these accidents can lead to severe injuries or even death.
Roadway construction is not the only reason behind unsafe roads, however. Roadway designs, over time, begin to show signs of major deterioration. Designs also can be affected by other conditions such as rapid growth and ever changing traffic patterns in California. When a road has extensive damage, or when the design becomes faulty or dangerous, things like a basic plowing or resurfacing will not suffice. It is here where a complete overhaul will be generally required in order for the road to meet acceptable criteria.
Potential Hazards
Roadway hazard claims can be present even from a simple pothole in a residential area. Dangers become increasingly higher, however, when vehicles are required to drive at higher speeds. Some of the most dangerous conditions may involve:
- An unsound bridge or safety railing that has become structurally deficient.
- A highway or freeway that has uneven lanes, potholes, crumbling edges, or narrow shoulders.
- Newly constructed roadways that have insufficient hazard signs, or are improperly designed for changing conditions.
- Under construction roadways that have visual obstructing equipment, sudden changing vehicle speed requirements, visually impairing road dust, or misleading road designs and warnings that may cause a trap for the unwary.
Road conditions require a great deal of attention and utmost caution on the part of those responsible for design, construction, care and maintenance. The safety of all vehicle drivers as well as pedestrians should be the main concern of road builders. For collisions or accidents caused directly or indirectly by roads, financial restitution may be sought from business or government representatives who have breached their duty to preserve safe roads.
Visible Signs of Disrepair
There are some roadway conditions that may demonstrate signs of deterioration. By recognizing the potential of a hazard, a person may be able to avoid an accident from happening. Even with the utmost care, however, there are times drivers may not be able to prevent tragedy from occurring.
Obtain Legal Support for Road Hazard Accidents
If you have suffered injuries, or the wrongful death of a loved one, as a result of a roadway hazard, you should know that you may be able to obtain financial restitution. Seek the legal advice of an experienced attorney who can guide you through the claims process.
The attorneys at Heiting & Irwin have extensive experience in dealing with road hazard accident claims. They are dedicating to helping those who have been victimized by negligent parties. Seek the strong support of a qualified team of attorneys to help you through the claims process.
