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Recovering Compensation in a Crash Caused by Road Hazards

Posted on behalf of Peter T. Nicholl in Car Accidents Published on September 23, 2020 and updated on March 15, 2022.

car driving over a pot holeAlthough the majority of car accidents are due to driver negligence, some crashes can also be caused by potholes, road erosion or poor design. Road hazards can lead to serious injuries for motorists. Roads that are inherently dangerous could result in parties responsible for overseeing or working on the roadway to become potentially liable for injuries. However, pursuing compensation can be difficult.

In these situations, having legal representation could be beneficial. An experienced Maryland car accident lawyer from our firm is here to help fight for fair and just compensation on your behalf. Learn whether you have a valid claim in a free, no-obligation legal consultation.

Road Hazards That Cause Car Accidents

Road hazards can cause drivers to lose control of their cars, crash into another car or hit a fixed object.

Driving over crumbling asphalt or an uneven surface could cause a tire blowout, resulting in the car swerving into another lane, into oncoming traffic or even striking a pedestrian walking on the sidewalk or crosswalk. Some road hazards that are commonly seen include:

  • Potholes and sinkholes
  • Pavement cracks or uneven road surfaces
  • Unmarked dips and speed bumps
  • Missing or inadequate guardrails
  • Malfunctioning traffic lights and signals
  • Poor road design, such as steep inclines
  • Poor roadway lighting
  • Inadequate road striping
  • Structural defects
  • Faded or unmarked lanes
  • Road debris, such as cargo or building materials
  • Damaged, missing or hidden signage

If you were injured in a crash caused by one of these road hazards or another poor road condition, you may be eligible to pursue compensation to help cover the costs of medical bills, car repairs and more.

Who Could Potentially Be Held Liable?

Depending on your situation, there are various parties that could be held liable for accidents and injuries caused by road hazards.

This may include a local, county or state government or other traffic authority responsible for the inspection and upkeep of the roadway as well as construction or infrastructure issues. If a government entity failed to fix a known road hazard, they may hold liability in a crash.

It is important to note that claims against the government are more complex as government entities are often immune from lawsuits. These claims are also handled differently than claims against a private party.

This is why it is important to have a lawyer on your side to properly investigate the accident and ensure that everything is properly handled so you are compensated for your losses.

Strengthening Your Claim for Compensation

One of the most significant things that can be done after a car accident is to seek medical care.

A doctor would be able to assess the extent and severity of your injury and provide a personalized treatment plan. Your medical records can serve as evidence linking your injuries directly to the crash.

If you are capable, be sure to take photos of the road hazard that contributed to your accident. This could be a major crack in the road, a dangerous curve or a sunken or raised manhole cover.

Having law enforcement also respond to the scene can also provide an official police report documenting the accident that can be used to also strengthen your claim for compensation.

We Fight for Maximum Compensation

If you or someone you care about has been injured in a crash caused by a road hazard, The Law Offices of Peter T. Nicholl may be able to assist.

We have over three decades of experience helping accident victims in Maryland pursue maximum compensation. To date, our firm has recovered tens of millions of dollars on behalf of our clients.

Reach out to schedule a consultation at no cost to you. We charge nothing to review your claim and no upfront fees while we work to build a strong case. You only pay us if we help you obtain a recovery.

There are no legal obligations or upfront fees. Call 410-907-3957.