You know the phrase, “accidents happen”? They sure do – especially automobile accidents. According to the CDC, roughly three million people are injured in car crashes each year in the United States. However, these mishaps are not always caused by the drivers involved. In fact, dangerous road conditions, in particular, contribute to nearly 4,000 fatal accidents annually. In order to avoid these accidents, there are a few things you should know.
What Can Be Considered Poor Conditions?
Faulty design, maintenance negligence, weather, and lack of proper signs or barriers are all factors that can cause a road to be unsafe for drivers. These conditions can cause cars to go off-road, skewed tire alignment, flat tires, collisions, and other expensive and sometimes deadly consequences.
For example:
- Black ice
- Steep slopes, potholes, or sharp curves without warning signs before them
- Drop-offs like cliffs and hills without guardrails
- Fog, sleet, snow, hail, or heavy rains that obstruct vision
- Improper drainage
- Changing landscape due to lack of maintenance
- Poorly placed traffic signs
Badly constructed roads can be dangerous as well, since they deteriorate quickly. Add a lack of maintenance, and you’ve got a serious safety hazard. A few signs of poor road up-keep include cracks, potholes, faded paint marks, sinking segments, and missing or damaged traffic devices.
What To Do When Poor Road Conditions Cause An Accident
Even if you do not think you are hurt, always go to the emergency room after an accident. If you are injured or your vehicle is damaged due to hazardous road conditions, contact one of our personal injury lawyers to handle your case. You can contact us at 314-252-9937. Having a professional on your side makes all the difference.