Road defects can seriously jeopardize driver safety. From potholes to poorly maintained traffic signals, the conditions of the road can increase the likelihood of a collision. Often overlooked, these hazards can be as dangerous as any speeding vehicle or stormy night. If you were injured by a road defect, you have the right to hold the entity responsible for maintaining the road accountable for the harm that you suffered. Talk to an experienced car accident attorney in Atlanta as soon as possible to discuss your legal options.
Potholes
Potholes can cause accidents by forcing drivers to make sudden and unsafe maneuvers. The abrupt jolt of hitting a pothole can damage a vehicle’s suspension and tires, potentially leading to loss of control. Larger potholes can even cause drivers to swerve unexpectedly, putting themselves and others at risk.
Inadequate Signage
Signage plays a critical role in guiding drivers and ensuring the safe flow of traffic. Missing, obscured, or poorly positioned signs can fail to alert drivers of upcoming changes in the road or traffic patterns, leading to confusion and collisions.
Poor Traffic Lighting
Adequate lighting on roads enhances visibility and helps prevent accidents, especially during night-time or adverse weather conditions. Areas that are poorly lit or where street lights are non-functional expose drivers to a heightened risk of accidents, as obstacles on the road become harder to see.
Debris on the Road
Objects on the road, whether they fall from passing vehicles or accumulate over time without proper maintenance, can create unexpected obstacles. Drivers may not have sufficient time to react to these hazards appropriately, leading to dangerous swerves or hard braking that can cause serious accidents.
Inadequate Drainage Systems
Improperly designed or maintained drainage systems lead to water pooling on roadways, increasing the risk of hydroplaning. This occurs when vehicles lose traction and skid across the surface of the water. Hydroplaning can be particularly hazardous on highways where high speeds make maintaining control of a vehicle more challenging.
Malfunctioning Traffic Signals
Traffic signals that fail to operate correctly can lead to chaos at intersections, one of the most common sites for vehicle collisions. Malfunctioning signals may cause confusion about the right of way, leading to crashes that could have been prevented with properly functioning lights.
Lack of Shoulder Maintenance
Shoulders provide a safety margin for drivers, whether they need to pull over due to vehicle issues or emergencies. Poorly maintained or nonexistent shoulders remove this safety buffer, increasing the likelihood of accidents by leaving drivers fewer options to safely manage roadside emergencies.
Seeking Justice After a Road Defect Collision in Georgia
Road defects can turn a routine drive into a disaster. If you’ve been involved in a collision where a road defect played a role, you may be entitled to compensation. These claims are generally filed against the government agency responsible for road maintenance. However, pursuing claims against governmental bodies involves navigating a maze of specific procedural rules and tight deadlines, which can complicate the process.
Given these complexities, working with an attorney with experience handling claims related to road defects is crucial. A lawyer can help you understand the procedural nuances, gather necessary evidence, and advocate on your behalf.
If you’ve been in an accident caused by poor road conditions, Monge & Associates can assist you in holding the right parties accountable. Contact us today at (888) 477-0597 to explore your legal options and begin your journey to fair compensation for your injuries and losses.